Baking can be a fun activity to do alone or with others. Many of the nourishing foods we may have in our pantry can be used for baking. Here are some examples.
1. Oats. This whole-grain carbohydrate provides protein, fiber, B-vitamins and iron. Rolled oats make a tasty addition to cookies, and oat flour can be used to make baked goods with a softer texture. You can make your own oat flour by grinding rolled oats in a coffee grinder or food processor.
2. Applesauce. The is fruit puree can act as a natural sweetener in baked goods. Applesauce also increases the fiber content, and helps to keep baked goods tender and moist.
3. Honey or maple syrup. These sweeteners are versatile and can help baked goods retain moisture. They can also produce a golden color and crisping action.
4. Sweet potatoes and pumpkin. The pureed form of these starchy vegetables work well in both sweet and savory baked goods. They’re also high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C.
5. Nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds, like walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and chia seeds are sources of nourishing fatty acids, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E. They can be added to baked goods for texture and crunch.
6. Nut butters. These spreads make tasty additions to cookies and brownies, and help soften the final product. They also add extra stability and structure in the baking process.
7. Espresso. Instant coffee and espresso powders can be used in chocolate baked goods enhance the intensity and flavor of the chocolate.
Information gathered & adapted from:
https://blog.myfitnesspal.com/ways-to-turn-pantry-staples-into-healthy-baked-treats/
Oatmeal and Peanut Butter Monster Cookies
Servings: 30 cookies
Ingredients
2 eggs
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/3 cup butter, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups rolled oats
2/3 cup chocolate chips
2/3 cup M&Ms
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add the remaining ingredients in the order listed, mixing well until the dough is evenly combined.
3. Use an ice cream or cookie scoop to scoop the dough on ungreased baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, then the cookies cool on wire racks.
Serving Size: 1 cookie
Nutrition Information per Serving: 10 grams total fat, 4 grams of saturated fat, 23 grams carbohydrate, 3 grams fiber, 5.5 grams protein, 66 milligrams sodium, 11 grams sugar
Recipe adapted from:
https://cookeatshare.com/recipes/flourless-monster-cookies-366275/external
