Almond-Oatmeal Cookies with Black Raspberries Recipe

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup almond butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups old fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 1/2 cups frozen black raspberries

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the butter, almond butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Continue to mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, just until combined.
5. Gently fold in the oats and sliced almonds until evenly mixed.
6. Carefully add the frozen black raspberries (do not thaw them first), folding them gently into the dough until they are evenly distributed.
7. Using a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough (about 1 1/2 tablespoons per cookie) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are just beginning to turn golden brown. Be sure not to overbake.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Value	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	123
Total Fat	5g	7%
Saturated Fat	2g	9%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	64mg	3%
Total Carbohydrate	17g	6%
Dietary Fiber	2g	6%
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	3g	5%
Vitamin C	2mg	2%
Calcium	27mg	2%
Iron	1mg	4%
Potassium	83mg	2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe by: Kim

Origin and History

Almond-Oatmeal Cookies with Black Raspberries blend two distinct culinary traditions: the classic oatmeal cookie, which has its roots in the United States, and the almond butter, a key ingredient from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Oatmeal cookies gained popularity in the 19th century as an easy and wholesome snack made from oats, which were valued for their nutritional benefits. The addition of black raspberries brings a more modern twist, as these berries are a rich source of antioxidants and have been increasingly used in baking. The use of almond butter gives these cookies a nutty, creamy texture, elevating the familiar oatmeal cookie recipe to something extraordinary. This fusion reflects the growing trend of incorporating superfoods into traditional recipes.

Regional Variations

In different regions, oatmeal cookies take on various forms. In the United States, oatmeal cookies are commonly made with raisins or chocolate chips, and sometimes nuts like walnuts or pecans. However, in Europe, particularly in Scandinavian countries, oats are often combined with berries or apples, aligning more with the Nordic tradition of using seasonal fruits in desserts. The black raspberries in this recipe are a special touch, highlighting a unique berry native to North America but also cultivated in temperate regions around the world. The combination of oats, almond butter, and berries is a nod to the growing interest in using regional superfoods in contemporary baking.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets Almond-Oatmeal Cookies with Black Raspberries apart from traditional oatmeal cookies is the use of almond butter instead of regular butter or other fats. This substitution gives the cookies a rich, nutty flavor and a denser, chewier texture. Additionally, the inclusion of black raspberries introduces a tart, fruity contrast to the sweetness of the dough, something that is rarely found in typical oatmeal cookies, which tend to be more straightforward in flavor. While oatmeal cookies often rely on raisins or nuts for texture and flavor, these cookies offer a more complex taste experience with the distinct sweetness of berries and the creamy richness of almond butter.

Where It Is Typically Served

Almond-Oatmeal Cookies with Black Raspberries are versatile and can be enjoyed in many settings. They are perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Due to their hearty nature, they also make an excellent post-workout treat or a filling addition to a lunchbox. These cookies are particularly popular during the fall and winter months when black raspberries are in season, and the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg complement the cozy vibe of colder weather. They are commonly served at family gatherings, casual parties, and bake sales, offering a healthy yet indulgent option for guests.

Fun Facts

• The black raspberry is often considered a "superfood" due to its high antioxidant content, which has been linked to numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
• Oatmeal cookies were once marketed as a health food in the early 1900s, thanks to the perceived nutritional value of oats.
• Almond butter has gained popularity in recent years as a plant-based alternative to traditional peanut butter, and it is especially favored by those on gluten-free or vegan diets.
• Many people have embraced "cookie therapy" as a form of self-care, indulging in the process of baking cookies as a way to reduce stress and foster creativity.

FAQ about Almond-Oatmeal Cookies with Black Raspberries Recipe