Frequently Asked Questions
What are Healthier Chunky Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies?
These are a guilt-free cookie option that uses a blend of wholesome ingredients like oat flour and whole wheat flour combined with extra chunky peanut butter for a chewy, satisfying texture.
What makes this recipe a healthier version of oatmeal cookies?
The recipe is considered healthier because it uses a specific blend of shortening, butter, honey, and natural peanut butter to lower the overall fat content while incorporating whole grains like oat flour and whole wheat flour.
What kind of peanut butter is recommended for these cookies?
The recipe specifically prefers extra chunky peanut butter to provide a delectable, chunky texture.
Can I eat these cookies for breakfast?
Yes, these cookies are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and whole grains, making them an excellent breakfast option or a healthy snack.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 13 ingredients in total for this recipe.
What types of flour are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a combination of 1 cup of oat flour and 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour.
Do I need to chill the cookie dough?
Yes, the dough will be slightly sticky, so it is recommended to cover the bowl and refrigerate it for about 1 hour to make handling easier.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long do the cookies need to bake?
Bake the cookies for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the center.
What is the first step in making these cookies?
The first step is to combine the softened butter, shortening, sugar, brown sugar, honey, and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl and whisk until creamy.
What kind of oats are used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of quick-cooking oats.
Is honey used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 cup of honey is used to add sweetness and flavor while contributing to the healthier profile.
Should the butter be cold or softened?
The butter should be softened before mixing.
What equipment is needed to mix the wet ingredients?
A large mixing bowl and a whisk attachment are recommended for mixing on medium and high speeds.
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
You should line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
How large should the dough balls be when placing them on the baking sheet?
The dough should be rolled into balls approximately 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
When should I add the vanilla and egg?
The egg and vanilla extract should be added after the initial mixture of fats and sugars is well combined and creamy.
Should I whisk the dry ingredients separately?
Yes, in a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, oat flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined before adding to the wet mixture.
Is it okay to overmix the dough?
No, you should mix on low speed until the dry ingredients are just incorporated to avoid overmixing.
How are the oats added to the dough?
The quick-cooking oats should be gently folded into the dough using a spatula until they are evenly distributed.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
They are done when they are lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the center.
What should I do after the cookies finish baking?
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can I substitute the shortening?
The recipe uses shortening specifically to help lower the fat content and manage texture, but a substitute could alter the final result.
Is there any salt in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 teaspoon of salt.
What kind of sugar is needed?
The recipe uses a combination of 1/3 cup of white sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include lower fat, peanut butter, oatmeal cookies, healthy cookies, breakfast cookies, drop cookies, and whole grains.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is described as a wholesome snack that the whole family, including children, will love.
What is the role of baking soda in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of baking soda to help the cookies rise and achieve the desired texture.
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead?
While you can, using the specified oat and whole wheat flours provides the specific health benefits and chewy texture intended for this recipe.
Does the dough remain sticky after refrigeration?
The refrigeration step is designed to make the sticky dough easier to handle so you can roll it into balls.