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Updated: November 19, 2021/ First Posted: November 19, 2021Amy Palanjian 26 Comments

Try these Healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies the next time you’re looking for a classic cookie that’s a little less sweet and still SO good. The dough comes together in just a few minutes and the result is a naturally sweet cookie everyone will enjoy.

Healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

I love baking and sharing cookies and treats with my kids, but I often try to make them with less sugar simply because it’s my preference, taste-wise, and because it’s often possible to do it without drastically impacting flavor or texture.

These oatmeal raisin cookies are soft, cinnamon-y, and so good!

TIP: These healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies get some sweetness from brown sugar, but the rest is from raisins—and the combination delivers on the flavor of a classic cookie with less added sugars than classic cookies.

Ingredients You Need

This recipe includes:

TIP: I use unsweetened smooth applesauce in this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a look at the process involved in making this healthy cookie recipe. Scroll down to the bottom of the recipe for the full information.

1. Preheat oven. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
2. Mix the dry ingredients together in a medium bowl.
3. Melt the butter in a heat-safe bowl.
4. Stir together the butter, applesauce, egg, and vanilla in a small bowl.
5. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry, using a spoon to thoroughly combine.
6. Portion out tablespoons of dough on prepared cookie sheet. Press down slightly.
7. Bake until edges and bottoms are browned. Let cool on the rack and eat warm or store for later.

TIP: This batter is fairly sticky, so expect that. It bakes up nice and moist!

Can I make these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies ahead of time?

Yes. You can either store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or store in the freezer for up to 3 months and thaw before serving. If they seem like they’ve firmed up, simply warm them in the microwave for a few (like 5-10) seconds.

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Yes! Just reach for certified gluten-free rolled oats and use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour. They work really well this way.

Dairy-Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

To make these dairy-free, use coconut oil in place of butter.

Egg-Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Yes, see the Notes section in the bottom of the recipe card at the bottom of the post for info on how to make these without eggs.

Best Tips for Success

I’d love to hear your thoughts if you make this recipe so please comment below with your feedback!

Healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Amy Palanjian

These soft cookies are a perfect afternoon snack (pair them with milk!) or dessert. (Recipe updated September 2020 to reduce the flour slightly to ensure the batter isn’t too dry.) These cookies are soft baked and very tender!

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 10 mins

Total Time 20 mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 (Makes about 24 cookies)

Calories 144 kcal

Ingredients 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (½ stick)
• 1/3 cup applesauce
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions 

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

• Mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and raisins together in a medium bowl.

• Melt the butter in a heat-safe bowl.

• Stir together the butter, applesauce, egg, and vanilla in a small bowl.

• Stir the wet ingredients into the dry, using a spoon to thoroughly combine.

• Portion out tablespoons of dough 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheet. Press down slightly. The dough will be sticky.

• Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges and bottoms are browned. Let cool on the rack and eat warm or store for later.

Notes

• To store, place cookies in an airtight container; cover. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Use other dried fruit instead of raisins such as dried cranberries or cherries.
• Use some chocolate chips in the mix.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and cup for cup gluten-free flour.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and applesauce instead of yogurt.
• Egg-free: Omit the egg. Use ¼ cup maple syrup instead of the brown sugar.

Nutrition

Serving: 2cookiesCalories: 144kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 3gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 131mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 141IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 1mg

Keyword healthy oatmeal raisin cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies

Filder Under:Dairy-Free, Desserts, Egg-Free, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Recipes, Vegetarian