These Lemon Chia Breakfast Cookies are a tasty way to start your day! With zesty lemon and crunchy chia seeds, they are both fruity and fun. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Honestly, these cookies make mornings brighter! I enjoy them with a cup of tea, and I like to pretend I’m at a fancy café. Who says breakfast can’t be a treat? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide the base for your cookies. If you need gluten-free options, use certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats work in a pinch, but they may make the cookies softer.
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and a nutty flavor. If you prefer a lighter texture, all-purpose flour works just fine. For a gluten-free swap, try almond flour or oat flour.
Chia Seeds: These are great for texture and nutrition. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can substitute with ground flaxseed, which offers similar health benefits.
Applesauce: It keeps the cookies moist and sweet without added sugar. If you want to reduce calories, use unsweetened applesauce. Using mashed bananas will also give great flavor!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener works well, but remember that honey is sweeter, so you might use a little less. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cookie Texture?
Getting the right texture for these breakfast cookies is key! Start by mixing your dry and wet ingredients separately. Then gently combine them to avoid overmixing, which can make the cookies tough.
- Preheat your oven fully before baking—this ensures the cookies rise properly.
- Scoop the dough onto the baking sheet and flatten it slightly. They won’t spread much while baking, so shape them how you want them to look.
- Keep an eye on your cookies near the end of baking time. You want them lightly golden, not too brown!
Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them helps them hold their shape. Enjoy the fresh lemon flavor and crunchy chia texture!
How to Make Lemon Chia Breakfast Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cookie Base:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins for added texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes for baking. You’ll spend a little time mixing the ingredients, but the cookies are quick to make and bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, chia seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Make sure they are evenly mixed so your cookies bake uniformly.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Make sure this mixture is smooth and well-blended.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Next, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until just combined. If you want some extra crunch, fold in the optional chopped nuts or raisins at this point.
5. Scoop the Dough:
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded amounts of dough onto the lined baking sheet. Slightly flatten each cookie with your hand, as they don’t spread much while baking.
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for lightly golden edges while the centers remain set.
7. Cool:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Enjoy!
Your refreshing lemony chia breakfast cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious morning treat.
These cookies are not just tasty but also packed with fiber from oats and chia seeds. The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing touch that makes every bite a delight!
Can I Use Different Sweeteners in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey with agave syrup or brown sugar. If you’re looking for a low-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute suitable for baking, but adjust the quantity according to the product’s directions.
What Can I Use Instead of Chia Seeds?
If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use ground flaxseed as a substitute. Just use the same amount, and it will still provide a nice texture and nutritional benefits!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying again.
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Yes, you can mix it up! Consider adding some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. You can also incorporate dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, or substitute the lemon zest for orange zest if you prefer a different citrus taste!
