MIND Diet Brain-Healthy Bites: Health(ier) Oatmeal Cookies

This MIND Diet-inspired recipe comes from Memory and Aging Program Research Project Manager Courtney Bodge. Cinnamon can boost cognitive function and reduce inflammation. Combining the cinnamon with honey (which contains the antioxidant Pinocembrin) and oatmeal (high in vitamins B and E) makes for a recipe that's delicious and great for brain health.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups quick oats (quick oats make for a more tender cookie)
• 1 cup white whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 large egg
• 1tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup choped raw walnuts or raisins, optional

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl whisk together the oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt
2. In a medium bowl combine the applesauce, butter, egg, vanilla and honey. Whisk until blended. 
3. Pour the wet mixture onto the dry mixture and stir until just combined (the dough should be wet and sticky).
4. Fold in the chocolate chips and optional nuts or raisins. 
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days. 
6. When ready to bake preheat oven to 350 degrees.
7. Line baking sheet with parchment paper, scoop dough into 1 1/2 inch balls and drop onto lined baking sheet. Gently flatten each cookie to about 3/4 inch thickness.
8. Bake for 9-10 minutes or until firm and golden on the edges. 
9. Let cool for 2 minutes then transfer to wire rack to completely cool. Enjoy!

Interested in changing to a healthier lifestyle?

If you're 40+ with normal memory or mild memory loss, you can help in the fight against Alzheimer's. Here's how: butler.org/ALZregistry 

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