Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

Big, thick, and soft cookies are a game-changer for breakfast! These Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutritious ingredients that keep you satisfied. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely morning, these cookies make for an excellent on-the-go breakfast or snack. With their unique blend of textures and flavors, they stand out as a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: Each cookie is loaded with wholesome oats, nuts, and seeds.
• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip these cookies up in no time!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast or as a midday snack, they fit any occasion.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits to make them your own.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, honey, and chocolate chips makes each bite irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To get started with your Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer (or spatula)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A sturdy bowl allows for easy mixing without spills.
• Electric hand mixer: This tool saves time and ensures a fluffy texture for your cookie dough.
• Baking sheets: Good quality sheets help achieve an even bake without sticking.
• Wire rack: Cooling cookies on a rack prevents them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Big, thick and soft cookies packed with nutritious ingredients to keep you satisfied! Perfect for breakfast on the go and snacking!

For the Dough

• 6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, (softened)
• ⅔ cup (145g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp (30ml) honey
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• ¼ cup (60ml) smooth regular peanut butter
• ½ cup (50g) large flake rolled oats
• 1 cup plus 2 tbsp (160g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt

Mix-ins

• ⅓ cup (50g) chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)
• ¼ cup (35g) pumpkin seeds
• 3 tbsp (25g) sunflower seeds
• ½ cup (60g) dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots
• ⅔ cup (113g) dark chocolate chips

How to Make Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, beat together butter with brown sugar and honey using an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed. You can also mix by hand with a spatula until well blended and slightly fluffy. Beat in the egg until well combined, then mix in peanut butter and vanilla.

Step 2: Add Oats

Add oats to the mixture and stir until they are evenly coated in the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the butter mixture along with chopped walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Mix until just combined. Then fold in dried cranberries and chocolate chips.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap directly on its surface in the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Roll 1.5-oz portions of dough into balls and place them on prepared baking sheets spaced about 2 inches apart. Flatten them into round disks; press extra walnut pieces on top if desired. Bake for 11-13 minutes until lightly golden around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center. Let cookies cool for 1 minute on the baking sheet before transferring them individually to a wire rack to cool completely.

With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick breakfast or a sweet snack, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a refreshing glass of cold milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the richness of the cookies.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Break up the cookies and sprinkle them over a bowl of yogurt. This adds texture and sweetness, making for a delicious breakfast treat.

As Part of a Breakfast Platter

• Serve your cookies alongside fresh fruits, nuts, and cheese on a breakfast platter. This provides a balanced meal with various flavors and nutrients.

Warmed in the Microwave

• For an extra indulgent treat, warm your Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Enjoy the melty chocolate chips and soft texture.

Drizzled with Honey

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling some honey over the top of your cookie. This adds an extra layer of flavor while keeping it healthy.

How to Perfect Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

To ensure your Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips. They will help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor balance.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and consistent texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps solidify fats, leading to thicker cookies.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking. They should be slightly gooey in the center.

• Add Toppings Wisely: Pressing extra walnuts or chocolate chips on top before baking enhances both appearance and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies make an excellent addition to various side dishes that enhance their appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Nut Butter Dip: Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip for added protein and richness that complements the cookie flavors.

3. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl made with bananas, spinach, and yogurt pairs well with these cookies for a nutritious breakfast option.

4. Cottage Cheese: The creamy texture of cottage cheese provides a nice contrast to the chewy cookies while adding protein.

5. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies in a glass for an appealing dessert or breakfast option.

6. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can make for a cozy pairing that softens the sweetness while providing soothing flavors.

7. Oatmeal: For an extra hearty meal, serve your cookies alongside oatmeal topped with fruits or nuts.

8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when paired with these sweet treats, making for an enjoyable snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection!

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can lead to cookies that don’t spread properly. Always soften your butter beforehand for the best texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a softer bite.
• Skipping the Refrigeration: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to maintain thickness.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Improper measurements can affect cookie consistency. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Oven temperatures vary; an incorrect setting can lead to undercooked or burnt cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.

Can I add different mix-ins to these breakfast cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with nuts, seeds, or dried fruits according to your preference.

What makes these cookies chewy?

The balance of butter, brown sugar, and the refrigeration step helps create that desirable chewy texture.

How should I store my Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Thick & Chewy Breakfast Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. They’re perfect for busy mornings or satisfying snacks throughout the day. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy their comforting taste!