Oatmeal Carrot Raisin Cookie Recipe

The Evolution of Cookies

Cookies have a rich history that spans centuries, evolving from simple twice-baked biscuits to the sweet treats we enjoy today. Early versions were often hard and savory, but over time, they transformed into the light, fluffy, and sweet cookies we know. The Germans and French played significant roles in this evolution, contributing to the development of sweeter cookie varieties.

Types of Cookies

Today, cookies come in various forms, including:

• Bar Cookies
• Drop Cookies
• Refrigerated Cookies
• Rolled Cookies

Among these, drop cookies are particularly popular, thanks in part to the Tollhouse Company's iconic chocolate chip cookie and the Quaker Company's rolled oats cookie.

Oatmeal Carrot Raisin Cookie Recipe

This recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional cookies, combining the nutritional benefits of oats and carrots with the natural sweetness of raisins.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup margarine (e.g., "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter")
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 2 medium eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
• Non-stick spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (325°F for gas ovens). If using a convection oven, turn off the fan to prevent over-browning.
2. Prepare the Pan: Spray a square or rectangular baking pan with non-stick spray.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, margarine, brown sugar, and vanilla bean paste. Mix well. Add eggs and beat until well combined.
4. Add Carrots and Raisins: Stir in grated carrots, raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine whole wheat flour, quick oats, and baking powder.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even baking.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool, and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits

Oats are a great source of fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health. Raisins provide natural sweetness and are packed with iron and potassium.

Interesting Stats

• Oat Consumption: According to the USDA, the average American consumes about 4 pounds of oats per year. Source
• Carrot Production: The United States is one of the top producers of carrots, with California accounting for over 80% of the nation's supply. Source
• Raisin Market: The global raisin market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.77% from 2021 to 2026. Source

About the Author

Chef Shelley Pogue is a Cum Laude graduate of Le Cordon Bleu and an Executive Research and Development Chef at Vertical Sales and Marketing in San Ramon, CA. She also serves as the desserts editor for BellaOnline.com.

For more delicious recipes and culinary insights, visit BellaOnline.

This article was inspired by Shelley Pogue's original recipe on EzineArticles.