Tuesday's Treat

Today's Tuesday Treat is a recipe I got from my Mom-in-law.  She makes these cookies for my Dad-in-law, hence their given name "Fred's Special Cookies."  I am not really sure about the calorie content of these cookies, but since there is butter and sugar involved, I imagine it may be high.  However, I think these cookies are perfect for the extremely active individual (distance runner, perhaps) who needs to refuel and seeks to do so in a healthy way.  This recipe is also easily modified to your own specific tastes, so take a look and see what you think!

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Ingredients: 

2 eggs

2 sticks of butter

1/2 cup of sugar

1 splash of vanilla

1 cup of whole wheat flour

3 cups of oatmeal (old fashioned)

1 cup of coconut

1 cup of raisins or crasins

1 cup of nuts (pick your favorite)

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.  The batter will be a bit dry.  Place tablespoon sized cookies onto a cookie sheet.  Smash the batter down to flatten.  Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes.  Check oven often and remove the cookies at your desired level of crispiness.  (Fred prefers them dark and crisp.)  Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

If you want to cut the calorie content, try using light butter or you could lessen the amount although that may make the batter too dry so attempt at your own peril.  You could always use brown sugar or add cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor and possibly play with your dried fruit and nut combination.  Just make sure to read the labels on any ingredients you decide to include.  I'm not super knowledgeable when it comes to baking, so let me know if you discover some new and delicious combinations!  

These cookies work great as a mid-afternoon snack with a cup of coffee and can also make a convenient breakfast on the go when needed.   Give this recipe a try and enjoy!