Cookies You Can Feel Good Eating

My boys are always hungry, it seems. So when it comes to snacks, I want them to eat something healthy that actually provides them the nutrition they need--and not just empty calories. When it comes to one of our favorite kinds of cookies, they don't know they're a health-food cookie; they just know they taste good! That's all that matters to them!

These aren't your typical chocolate-chip cookies. They are wholesome, hearty, and--sugar aside--nutritious. With the apricots, they are a great source of vitamin A. Did you know apricots also provide Vitamin C, iron, potassium, and fiber?  (I usually buy a big bag at Sam's Club). I personally love them, and the kids gobble them up too.

Here's the recipe:
Apricot Oatmeal Cookies

3 c. old-fashioned oats
2-1/2 c. whole-wheat flour
1-1/2 c. brown sugar
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
6 ounces dried apricots, chopped
3/4 c. canola oil
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. lowfat milk
3/4 c. walnuts, chopped

In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, apricots and walnuts. Mix well, by hand, to break up any lumps. Add eggs and oil; work in with fingers until well blended. Combine baking soda, vanilla, and lowfat milk and pour over oat mixture. Mix well with fingers to make a stiff dough.
To make cookies, portion with a food scoop, or make 1-1/2 inch balls by hand. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Press each down with wet fingertips. Bake at 325-degrees for 10-15 minutes. Enjoy!