Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chewy Raw Vegan Oatmeal Cookies?
These are a nourishing, plant-based breakfast or snack option made with whole oat groats, nuts, and natural sweeteners, prepared using a dehydrator to maintain raw nutritional benefits.
Are these oatmeal cookies gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses oats, nuts, and raisins, though you should ensure your oat groats are certified gluten-free if you have a high sensitivity.
What type of oats are required for this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 2 cups of whole oat groats, which are ground into a fine flour using a food processor.
How do I prepare the oats for the dough?
Place the whole oat groats in a food processor and grind them until they reach a fine flour consistency before adding them to your mixing bowl.
Can I use a sweetener other than agave nectar?
Yes, you can substitute agave nectar with an equal amount of maple syrup if you prefer.
What is the purpose of the cashews in this recipe?
The cashews are ground into a fine powder and used to coat your hands, which prevents the sticky cookie dough from adhering to your skin while shaping.
How should the almonds be processed?
Almonds should be pulsed in a food processor until they are coarsely chopped to provide a crunchy texture to the cookies.
Do I need a dehydrator to make these cookies?
Yes, a dehydrator is used to dry the cookies at a low temperature, which preserves their raw status while achieving the desired chewy or crunchy texture.
What temperature should I set the dehydrator to?
The cookies should be dehydrated at 110 degrees Fahrenheit or 43 degrees Celsius.
How long does it take to dehydrate the cookies?
The process typically takes about 12 hours, though time may vary depending on the thickness of the cookies and your preferred level of crunchiness.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Absolutely, these cookies are a favorite with children and serve as a healthy alternative to processed sugary cereals.
Who inspired this specific recipe?
This recipe is inspired by a version originally created by Juliano.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: oat groats, almonds, raisins, agave nectar or maple syrup, and cashews.
How do I shape the cookies?
Roll small amounts of the dough into balls, then flatten them into rounds before placing them on the dehydrator mesh sheets.
Can I make these cookies crunchy?
Yes, if you prefer a crunchier texture, simply leave them in the dehydrator for longer than the recommended 12 hours.
What is the best way to grind the cashews?
A coffee grinder or a small food processor works best to turn the cashews into a fine powder.
Are there any raisins in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 cup of raisins which are mixed directly into the dough.
Is this recipe considered no-bake?
Yes, because it uses a dehydrator at low heat rather than a traditional oven, it is classified as a raw, no-bake recipe.
Can I use this recipe for breakfast?
Yes, these cookies are specifically designed to be a delightful and energizing breakfast option.
How many almonds are required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped almonds.
What equipment do I need for this recipe?
You will need a food processor, a mixing bowl, a coffee grinder (optional for cashews), and a dehydrator with mesh sheets.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
After approximately 12 hours in the dehydrator, check if they have reached your desired consistency of chewiness or crunchiness.
Should I let the cookies cool after dehydrating?
Yes, you should allow the cookies to cool after removing them from the dehydrator before eating them.
Is there any added sodium in these cookies?
No, this recipe does not call for any added salt or sodium.
Can I substitute the raisins for other dried fruit?
While the recipe calls for raisins, you could experiment with other dried fruits, though it may change the traditional oatmeal cookie flavor.
How do I store these cookies?
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their texture.
Does this recipe contain refined sugar?
No, it uses natural sweeteners like agave nectar or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
Is the oat flour store-bought?
In this recipe, the oat flour is freshly made by grinding whole oat groats in a food processor.
What makes these cookies chewy?
The combination of ground oats and agave nectar, along with the specific dehydration time, creates their signature chewy texture.
Can I make these if I am on a raw food diet?
Yes, by dehydrating at 110F, the ingredients remain raw, making this perfect for a raw food lifestyle.