Ingredients (Makes 12 Biscuits)
- 1 cup (90 g) oatmeal
- 1 cup (about 8.5 oz or 240 g) apple puree
- 1.8 oz (50 g) almonds, chopped
- 1.8 oz (50 g) walnuts, chopped
- 1.8 oz (50 g) dried cranberries
- 1.8 oz (50 g) raisins
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
Nutritional Information (Per Biscuit)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 6 g (natural sugars from fruits)
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 0 mg
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Nuts
Start by chopping the almonds and walnuts into small, bite-sized pieces. You can do this with a sharp knife or use a food processor for a more uniform texture. Chopping the nuts finely ensures that every bite of your apple biscuit has a satisfying crunch and makes it easier to form the biscuits later on.
Step 2: Combining the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts with 1 cup of oatmeal, 1.8 oz (50 g) of dried cranberries, and 1.8 oz (50 g) of raisins. Mix them thoroughly to create a wholesome base for your biscuits. This dry mixture not only provides a delightful texture but also packs each biscuit with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats from the nuts.
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Step 3: Preparing the Apple Puree
For the apple puree, peel and core fresh apples (about 2 medium apples), then grate them into a separate bowl. Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the grated apples to prevent browning and add a touch of tanginess. For a smoother consistency, you can blend the grated apples in a food processor. The puree should be thick and chunky to give the biscuits a hearty texture.
Step 4: Mixing the Wet Ingredients
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the apple puree. The olive oil adds moisture and richness to the biscuits, enhancing their texture and helping the mixture bind together. Stir the oil thoroughly into the apple mixture until well combined.
Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the apple mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture starts to come together. This step is crucial for ensuring that every bite of your biscuit has a balanced taste and texture, with bits of nuts, fruit, and oats in each piece.
Step 6: Chilling the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavors and making the mixture firmer and easier to shape. The oats will also absorb some of the moisture from the apple puree, which helps the biscuits hold their shape.
Step 7: Shaping the Biscuits
After chilling, take the mixture out of the fridge. Using your hands, form the mixture into small, thin, cookie-sized rounds, about 2 inches in diameter. For a crispier texture, make the biscuits thinner. If you prefer softer biscuits, shape them slightly thicker. Place the shaped biscuits on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Baking or Cooking the Biscuits
Baking in the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the biscuits on the sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the biscuits are firm to the touch. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
- Remove from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool on a wire rack before serving. Cooling them on a rack helps maintain their crisp texture.
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Cooking in a Pan
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Place the biscuits in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, remove the biscuits from the pan and let them cool slightly before serving. This method will yield a slightly softer biscuit compared to baking.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
- Storage: Store these biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
- Customization: Feel free to substitute the dried cranberries and raisins with other dried fruits like chopped dates, figs, or apricots. For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture.
- Add-Ins: For extra crunch, you can add seeds such as chia, flax, or sunflower seeds. A sprinkle of shredded coconut can also add a delightful texture and flavor twist.
