Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

These healthy banana oatmeal pancakes are flourless and made in a blender for quick and easy breakfasts! Enjoy fluffy, satisfying…

These healthy banana oatmeal pancakes are flourless and made in a blender for quick and easy breakfasts! Enjoy fluffy, satisfying pancakes packed with wholesome oats and natural sweetness.

Banana oatmeal pancakes

Want a deliciously healthy breakfast idea that sticks with you all morning? Enter banana oatmeal pancakes! These tasty flapjacks blend up in minutes for a quick and satisfying breakfast. And get this: they’re flourless, made with the magic of Old Fashioned oats and a blender! They are so satisfying, no one will know they’re not “normal” pancakes. Every time we make them, we literally cannot stop eating them (our kids make them disappear in seconds). They’re basically like eating oatmeal and a banana, in pancake form!

Why make these banana oatmeal pancakes?

This banana oatmeal pancakes recipe is a combination between our fan favorite healthy banana muffins recipe and our oatmeal pancakes. Many pancake recipes made with all purpose flour leave us with a sugar crash and hungry an hour later. But these banana oatmeal pancakes are hearty, wholesome and one of our favorite ways to start the morning! What’s great about them?

  • They’re made mainly of oats: no flour. This makes them 100% whole grain and naturally gluten free pancakes. You’ll find they stick with you: they’re filling and make your stomach feel full, not ready for a sugar crash! It’s basically like eating a bowl of oatmeal.
  • They’re so easy to make! All you need is a blender and these pancakes come together in a breeze.
  • They’ve got amazing flavor. Take one bite, and you’ll be a believer. We promise!
Stack of Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

They’re easy to make: in a blender!

How to make pancakes easy? Simply whiz up everything in a blender and you’re ready to go! For some reason, using a blender seems easier than whisking everything together: maybe because there’s a little less mess? Then cook them up the same as a standard pancake.

The batter for these banana oatmeal pancakes is a slightly more delicate than a standard pancake since these oatmeal blender pancakes have no gluten. But they don’t require a lot of extra babying! It should feel essentially the same as a normal pancake when they’re on the griddle.

Variations on these banana oatmeal pancakes

Here are a few variations on these banana oatmeal pancakes:

  • Dairy free: Use almond milk instead of standard milk, and neutral oil instead of butter. Try vegan yogurt for the yogurt, or you can just add the same amount of non-dairy milk.
  • Vegan / plant based: Honestly, we’d recommend our Vegan Pancakes instead. But you can try using flax eggs in place of the egg! To learn more, go to How to make a flax egg.
Ingredients for banana oatmeal pancakes

How to step up these banana oatmeal pancakes

We love serving these banana oatmeal pancakes with just a drizzle of maple syrup! Of course it’s essential to be light-handed on toppings for a healthy pancake recipe, or it kind of negates the purpose of being healthier in the first place, right? Here are a few fun ways to dress up your gluten free banana oatmeal pancakes, with a healthy spin:

Love banana flavor? Our Healthy Banana Muffins or Healthy Banana Bread use the same method! Or browse our favorite banana recipes.

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

More great pancakes recipes

Want more pancakes recipes? We’ve got ’em! Try our original oatmeal pancakes and more:

This banana oatmeal pancakes recipe is…

Vegetarian, gluten free, and dairy free. For vegan and plant-based, substitute a flax egg for the eggs or go to Vegan Banana Pancakes.

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Banana oatmeal pancakes

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes (Flourless!)


  • Author: Sonja
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: About 9 large or 12 small pancakes

Description

These deliciously easy banana oatmeal pancakes are made in a blender using oats and bananas: no flour! They’re delicious with a healthy spin. NOTE: Recipe updated 5/26/2021 to address reader comments. 


Ingredients

  • 2 cups Old Fashioned rolled oats
  • ¼ cup plain or vanilla yogurt (Greek or whole milk work)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk of choice
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted (or grapeseed or olive oil)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup mashed very ripe bananas (about 2 medium)

Instructions

  1. Place the oats, Greek yogurt, eggs, milk, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, baking powder and kosher salt in a blender. Blend on high until a smooth batter forms. 
  2. Mash the bananas, then stir them into the blender with a spatula. 
  3. Lightly grease a skillet with butter and wipe off extra grease with a paper towel. Heat the skillet over low heat. Add a few more tablespoons milk to the batter until it is still thick but can pour out of the blender. Pour the batter into small circles. Cook the pancakes until the bubbles pop on the top and the bottoms are golden: low and slow is the key! Then flip them and cook until golden on the other side. 
  4. Add another tablespoon or two of milk to the remaining batter and stir so that it is pourable. Cook the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as necessary (the skillet can get very hot on the second batch). Place the cooked pancakes under an inverted bowl to keep them warm. Serve immediately with maple syrup.
  • Category: Brunch
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

Mai Tai

Here’s how to make the original Mai Tai recipe! Gather the ingredients for this tropical rum drink that’s as complex…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

Here’s how to make the original Mai Tai recipe! Gather the ingredients for this tropical rum drink that’s as complex as it is fruity.

Mai Tai Recipe

The Mai Tai might sound like a simple fruity resort drink, but it’s anything but! No, this drink is a classic cocktail from the 1940’s that’s been (cough) ruined by saccharine sweet versions. How to make a real Mai Tai? The rum cocktail is breathtakingly complex, featuring aged rum, orange liqueur, and almond syrup for nutty and vanilla notes against sharp citrus. Float a little dark rum on top, and you get to the core of a Mai Tai: it’s sophisticated, nuanced, and might we say…extraordinarily special.

What’s a Mai Tai?

The most widely accepted origin story of the Mai Tai is that the cocktail was invented in 1944 at Trader Vic’s restaurant in Oakland, California. It became very popular in the 1950’s and 60’s, especially at tiki restaurants. (And since Tiki culture is built on appropriation, we won’t exalt the virtues of that phenomenon.)

Full disclosure: we weren’t fans of this drink until we tasted the classic version! The Mai Tai cocktail in its original form just makes sense. It’s tropical, nutty, boozy and zingy: and it’s nothing like the adult fruit juice you might be expecting. (I ordered a Mai tai at a bar recently and it tasted like a Hawaiian punch juice box.)

Mai tai ingredients

Mai Tai ingredients

What’s in the original Mai Tai? Despite what you might think, there’s no pineapple juice! There’s actually no fruit juice, other than lime juice. The classic Mai Tai cocktail is on the list of International Bartender Association’s IBA official cocktails, meaning that it has an “official” definition. The ingredients in a Mai Tai drink are:

  • Aged rum (also called golden, amber or anejo)
  • Orange liqueur: either curaçao, Cointreau or Grand Marnier
  • Lime juice
  • Orgeat syrup
  • Simple syrup (optional)
  • Dark rum

The classic Mai Tai ingredients also often include simple syrup. Using a hint of simple syrup accentuates the flavor for a fruity, sweet tart Mai Tai. Omit the simple syrup and it makes a more boozy, spirit-forward drink. I prefer adding simple syrup for the flavor of that classic tropical drink, but Alex prefers the boozier version. Try it both ways and find your favorite!

Mai Tai Ingredients

What is orgeat syrup?

You may have noticed cocktails at bars that include the ingredient orgeat syrup. What is it, and is it absolutely necessary for a Mai Tai?

  • Orgeat syrup is a non-alcoholic almond syrup used for sweetening cocktails. It has a distinctive nutty flavor with a hint of citrus that’s hard to replicate.
  • How do you pronounce orgeat? Say Or-ZHAAT, where the “ZH” is like the J in the name Jacque.
  • What is a substitute for orgeat syrup? There is no substitute for the unique nutty citrus flavor. A Mai Tai without orgeat syrup just doesn’t work. It’s a tasty drink: just not a real Mai Tai.
  • How much does orgeat syrup cost? You can grab a bottle for about $10. It’s easy to find online: here’s the orgeat syrup we have. Use up leftovers with a Japanese Cocktail, Trinidad Sour, or Mojito Mocktail.
Aged rum

Orange liqueur: Grand Marnier vs Curaçao

A Mai Tai recipe traditionally uses orange curaçao, but it can be hard to find. Here are a few notes on what else to use as a substitute for the orange liqueur:

  • Grand Marnier is your best bet. Grand Marnier is the highest end orange liqueur, and brings nuanced, sophisticated flavor. We had a bottle (since we like Grand Marnier cocktails), so we used it here.
  • Cointreau also works. Got a bottle for making margaritas or other Cointreau drinks? You can use it here too. The flavor is a little less nuanced, but it still works!
Mai Tai Recipe

Two types of rum make the best flavor

Many Mai Tai recipes use two types of rum mixed into the drink. Our version takes it a step further and floats the dark rum on top! It makes for a showy presentation and it’s become a tradition that some people like in their version of this drink. Here’s a bit more about the two types of rum you’ll need:

  • Aged rum: This type of rum is also referred to as golden rum, amber rum, or añejo rum (meaning “aged”). Aging gives it a complex flavor, more like a Cognac. It has undertones of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel. The aged rum that we used here was Brugal Añejo Rum.
  • Dark rum: Also known as black rum, dark rum has a dark color and a rich flavor that’s smoky and sweet.

What other cocktails use these types of rums? Use aged rum in an El Presidente or Pineapple Rum Cocktail, and dark rum in Rum Punch, Dark and Stormy, or a Jungle Bird.

What people are saying about this Mai Tai recipe

Once you’ve got your orgeat syrup, stocked up on golden and dark rum, and figured our your orange liqueur, it’s time to make your Mai Tai cocktail! This is the easy part: shake up the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, strain into a glass, float the dark rum on top and garnish! Here are a few comments from readers who have made this recipe:

  • “I thought your recipe was excellent. I added more lime juice than listed by accident, but is turned out fine. The flavors are amazing and I felt like I was back on Maui enjoying happy hour. It sure packs a punch! I will definitely make this again.” -Rosemary
  • “Used 15 year old Rhum Barbancourt from Haiti topped with Bacardi Black with Grand Marnier. It came out very nice!” -Jim
  • “Wow, wow, wow! You guys hit this one on the head. Absolutely fantastic recipe. The moment I tasted this, the memories of when I first had this came back to me.” -Justin
Mai Tai recipe | Mai tai cocktail
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Mai Tai Recipe

Mai Tai


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 drink

Description

Here’s how to make the original Mai Tai recipe! Gather the ingredients for this tropical rum drink that’s as complex as it is fruity.


Ingredients

  • 1 ½ ounces* aged rum
  • ½ ounce orange liqueur: Curaçao, Cointreau or Grand Marnier
  • ¾ ounce lime juice
  • 1 ounce orgeat syrup
  • ½ teaspoon simple syrup (optional**)
  • ½ ounce dark rum, to float (optional)
  • For serving: Crushed ice or clear ice, fresh mint, cocktail cherry, lime wedge

Instructions

  1. Place the aged rum, orange liqueur, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup (if using**) in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake until cold.
  2. Strain the drink into an ice-filled glass. Top with the dark rum. Garnish with fresh mint, a lime wedge, cocktail cherry and pineapple slice. 

Notes

Here’s a link to these fluted lowball glasses.

*To convert to tablespoons, 1 ounce = 2 tablespoons.

**A hint of simple syrup accentuates the flavor for a fruity, sweet tart Mai Tai. Omit it for a more boozy, spirit-forward Mai Tai.

  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Shaken
  • Cuisine: Cocktails
  • Diet: Vegan

Keywords: Mai Tai, Mai Tai Recipe, Mai Tai Ingredients, Mai Tai Drink, Mai Tai Cocktail

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A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

Perfect Strawberry Smoothie

This recipe unlocks the secret to the perfect strawberry smoothie! It’s deliciously thick, perfectly sweet, and bursting with fresh flavor.…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

This recipe unlocks the secret to the perfect strawberry smoothie! It’s deliciously thick, perfectly sweet, and bursting with fresh flavor.

Strawberry Smoothie Recipe

It’s more difficult than you think to make a perfect smoothie without a recipe. Our strawberry smoothie recipe uses just 5 ingredients to make the creamiest texture and a pure, sweet berry flavor. Make it, memorize it, and make a perfect healthy smoothie on repeat!

Jump to the recipe—now.

Why this recipe is the perfect strawberry smoothie

It’s my job to make the best smoothie recipes on the internet. I’ve created over 65 smoothie recipes focusing on natural fruits and vegetables and healthy proteins like yogurt, while avoiding sugary juices. Along with my co-author Alex, we’ve made green smoothies, vegetable smoothies, fruit smoothies and energy smoothies.

But when it comes to picking favorites, it all comes back to this strawberry smoothie recipe for both of us! Here’s why it’s perfect, to us:

  • Light and creamy texture. It’s easy for smoothies to turn out too icy or thick. This one is light and creamy, with just the right icy and airy texture.
  • Subtly sweet, fruity flavor. Often smoothies are too bitter or overly sweet. This strawberry smoothie is lightly sweet, with just the right berry essence.
Best strawberry smoothie

Ingredients for this strawberry smoothie

Here’s what you’ll need to make this strawberry smoothie! Strawberries have a lot of nutritional punch for very few calories (per Cleveland Clinic), making them one of our favorite ingredients to incorporate in smoothies. We were careful to choose healthy ingredients for this smoothie: no overly sugary juices or syrups. Here’s what we selected:

  • Frozen strawberries: It’s easy to find and store frozen berries, and they add a great icy texture to this smoothie. If you prefer using fresh berries, use a frozen banana instead of one at room temperature.
  • Fresh banana: Many smoothie recipes call for frozen bananas, but we don’t often have them on hand or have the time to wait for freezing. So we customized this recipe to use a fresh banana!
  • Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt gives this recipe a protein boost and helpful probiotics. (If you love yogurt, you could add a touch more.) It also makes for a perfect creamy texture.
  • Ice: Here’s the most important part — ice is essential to a perfect strawberry smoothie! It makes just the right frothy texture. We’ve tried it without and it really makes a difference. Do not omit it!
  • Milk: You need just the right amount of liquid in a smoothie to get it to blend. Not enough and the blender gets stuck (the worst!), and too much it tastes milky. You can also use non-dairy milk.
  • Maple syrup: Adding a hint of maple brings out the sweetness in the berries. If you eat a low sugar diet you could omit, but it doesn’t quite taste sweet enough with no sweetener.
Strawberry smoothie

Add-ins and options

Of course, you can mix in whatever you’d like to customize your healthy strawberry smoothie! But if you want it to be perfect, you’ve got to use flavors that work. Here are some ideas:

  • Almond butter. Almond goes well with strawberry. Use about 1 tablespoon, 2 for a stronger almond flavor (it will also dull the color a bit).
  • Vanilla. Use ¼ to ½ teaspoon vanilla to heighten the flavors.
  • Mint or basil. Add a few fresh mint or basil leaves for an herbaceous spin.
  • Cocoa powder. Craving chocolate? Go to Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie.

Things not to add? Handfuls of spinach leaves! They turn this smoothie into an unappealing shade of brown. If you want a green smoothie, go to our Green Smoothie.

Strawberry smoothie variations

Strawberry smoothie variations

Craving a flavor twist? Don’t stop at strawberries! This versatile smoothie base can be transformed into a tropical paradise with a handful of mango or pineapple. Mix in blueberries for a tart and tangy upgrade, or add even more banana for extra sweetness. We’ve created separate recipes for each variation:

For a strawberry recipe without banana, try this one from smoothie expert The Blender Girl.

Ways to make it plant based

You can make this strawberry smoothie plant-based or vegan by doing the following:

  • Make our strawberry banana smoothie. Try our Strawberry Banana Smoothie: it’s vegan and uses only 2 ingredients!
  • Omit the yogurt and use non-dairy milk for the milk. We like using oat milk or almond milk. Oat milk is usually a little sweeter and creamier, so it’s our default for smoothies. You could also try coconut milk, which adds a nice coconut essence, or soy milk. To compensate for the yogurt, add a splash more milk as necessary to get it to blend.
Strawberry smoothies in two cups with straws and strawberry garnish

Storing leftovers

Smoothies are best eaten immediately. But this strawberry smoothie actually lasts 1 to 2 days refrigerated, stored in a sealed container or a mason jar with the lid on. It may separate, which is perfectly natural. Just shake it up and you’re good to go!

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Strawberry smoothie

Perfect Strawberry Smoothie


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 2 small smoothies

Description

This 2-minute recipe unlocks the secret to the perfect strawberry smoothie! It’s deliciously thick, perfectly sweet, and bursting with fresh flavor.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups frozen strawberries
  • 1 banana (room temperature)
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt*
  • 1 cup milk (or almond milk or oat milk)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup
  • ½ cup ice
  • Optional add-ins: 1 tablespoon almond butter, ¼ teaspoon vanilla, fresh mint leaves or basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in a blender, breaking the banana into pieces. Blend until creamy and frothy, stopping and scraping down the sides as necessary. Serve immediately or store in a covered jar in the refrigerator for 2 days.

Notes

*For vegan, make a Strawberry Banana Smoothie! Blend 2 cups frozen strawberries, 2 bananas (room temperature), ½ cup water and 8 ice cubes. Or, omit the Greek yogurt and add additional oat milk to get the smoothie to blend. 

  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Blended
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Strawberry Smoothie, Strawberry Banana Smoothie

This strawberry smoothie recipe is…

Vegetarian and gluten-free. For vegan, plant-based and dairy-free, see the recipe for variations.

A few favorite smoothies

We’ve got lots more where this came from! Here more smoothie recipes to try:

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

Carrot Cake Cookies

These soft and chewy carrot cake cookies are packed with shredded carrots, cozy spices, and a hint of cream cheese…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

These soft and chewy carrot cake cookies are packed with shredded carrots, cozy spices, and a hint of cream cheese frosting. They’re the perfect recipe to celebrate the season!

Carrot Cake Cookies

As two cookbook authors, we love creating recipes that create a fusion between two equally delicious foods. So here’s a fun mashup up our most popular cookie with our favorite seasonal cake flavor: this carrot cake cookies recipe! These soft and chewy cookies have all the best elements of carrot cake: moist, spiced cake, vibrant flecks of carrot, and crunch of walnuts or pecans—all condensed into bite-sized perfection! Top it all off with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting and it’s a perfect sweet treat for spring (or in any season, we think!).

Jump to the recipe—now.

Why make these carrot cake cookies

These carrot cake cookies are outrageously good: chewy, soft, and delicious! We developed them based on our popular chocolate chip cookies, and we might like them even better. Here are a few reasons to love them:

  • People love them. Our recipe tester Lexi said, “The spices are spot on. They definitely taste like carrot cake, but in cookie form. They were really fun to make and so good! By the way, they taste AMAZING straight from the fridge. Quite addictive.”
  • They are easy and store well. There’s no chilling the dough required and no special techniques. And, these cookies stay soft and chewy for days!
  • The cookies have nutritious ingredients. They’re not a health food, but these cookies are loaded with old Fashioned oats, carrots and walnuts.
  • They’re easy to make vegan. These cookies are eggless and can be made with coconut oil for vegan or with butter!
Carrot cake cookies with cinnamon and measuring cup

Ingredients you need

Carrot cake is not hard to make, but whipping up a layer cake does take some time and technique. Instead, these cookies are bite-sized forms of carrot cake that come together simply and require less overall quantities of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for these carrot cake cookies:

  • Baking essentials: Neutral oil (grapeseed, canola or vegetable), butter or coconut oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, all-purpose flour
  • Produce: Carrots, applesauce
  • Pantry ingredients: Old Fashioned oats, walnuts, vanilla extract, almond extract, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt
  • Icing ingredients: Cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk

A note on almond extract

We highly recommend using the almond extract for the best flavor! The recipe calls for 1/16 teaspoon extract (1 to 2 drops), which is just enough to give it a nuance in flavor but not enough that it is strongly perceptible. We use a ⅛ teaspoon measure and fill it halfway; if you don’t have one, you can approximate using a ¼ teaspoon.

Carrot cake cookies with cream cheese icing

Tips for baking carrot cake cookies

There are a few tips for baking the best carrot cake cookies! Here’s what we do to get even-sized cookies that work every time:

  • Use a cookie scoop or weigh the batter. If you have a 3 tablespoon cookie scoop, it’s helpful for portioning the dough: just overfill it slightly. You can also weigh out the batter at approximately 50 grams per cookie (or weigh your entire dough and divide by 18).
  • Non-stick cookie sheets are helpful. This has become our preferred method for cookies. We recommend using two of these non-stick cookie sheets for the most even bake.
  • Bake each tray separately for the most even bake. If you have a very even oven, you can try baking both sheets at once and rotate the sheets halfway through. However, our oven is pretty uneven so this is what works best! There’s no need to refrigerate the dough in between batches.

For the cream cheese icing

The cream cheese drizzle is what takes these cookies to the next level! You’ll need just cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and milk (vegan as desired). We piped on the icing using a piping bag, but you can use a fork to drizzle as well.

  • Warm 3 tablespoons cream cheese in the microwave or stovetop. Warming it makes it easy to stir into a glaze.
  • Adjust the liquid as necessary. The icing will feel very thick at first, but keep stirring and it will form into a thick drizzle. That’s all there is to it!
  • Use a piping bag for neat zig zags, or a fork for a messy, more organic drizzle. Don’t use a spoon, which makes for more of a thick, uneven look.
Carrot Cake Cookies recipe

Dietary swaps: they’re easily vegan!

These carrot cake cookies are easily made vegan! Simply use refined coconut oil, which is our favorite way to make these cookies (the butter is a swap). For the icing, use vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and the plant-based milk of your choice. Or, go to this Vegan Cream Cheese Icing.

Storage info

Carrot cake cookies hold up well over time, keeping their chewy texture. Here’s what to note about storing them:

  • Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well and they stay chewy with no need to add anything to the container.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. 

More cookies recipes

Carrot cake cookies are perfect as a spring recipe or any time of year! Here are a few more cookies you might enjoy:

This carrot cake cookies recipe is…

Vegetarian. For vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free, see the Dietary Swaps section above.

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Carrot cake cookies

Carrot Cake Cookies


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 18 to 19 cookies

Description

These soft and chewy carrot cake cookies are packed with shredded carrots, cozy spices, and a hint of cream cheese frosting. They’re the perfect recipe to celebrate the season!


Ingredients

For the cookies

  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola or vegetable)
  • ¼ cup refined coconut oil or butter, at room temperature
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/16 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)*
  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ¼ cups Old Fashioned oats
  • ¾ cup shredded carrots (large grated)
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant, if desired)

For the cream cheese icing (or vanilla glaze)

  • ¼ cup cream cheese (or vegan cream cheese)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons milk of choice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper, or omit if using non-stick cookie sheets (we swear by these).
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), add the neutral oil, coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix with the paddle attachment (or an electric mixer) on Medium speed until fully combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond extract and mix until combined, a few seconds. 
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, kosher salt, and Old Fashioned oats. Turn on the mixer and gradually add the flour and oats mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Add the carrots and walnuts and mix on low for a few seconds until mixed in. The dough will feel slightly oily, but this is as expected.
  4. Scoop nine 3-tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving a few inches between each cookie for spreading (using a cookie scoop is helpful; we overfilled our 2 tablespoon scoop or you can weigh out 50 grams each). Bake one batch for 14 to 15 minutes, or until just golden (baking one batch at a time makes the most even bake). Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool fully. While the cookies cool, portion out and bake the second batch of dough; don’t refrigerate the dough in between. 
  5. Once the cookies are fully cooled, to make the icing, place the cream cheese and butter (cut into a few small pieces) in a glass measuring cup or bowl and microwave for about 20 seconds until warm, then stir together until smooth. (Alternatively, warm it in a small saucepan over medium low heat on the stovetop). Stir in the powdered sugar and milk and mix until a drizzlable glaze forms. If the glaze is too thick, add ½ teaspoon milk at a time until it becomes able to drizzle but still has a thick texture. 
  6. Pipe the icing onto the cookies using a piping bag or use a fork to drizzle it over the cookies. Allow to dry for 10 minutes. Store the cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for 2 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving). If making the cookies in advance, store them un-iced and refrigerated or frozen; add the drizzle directly before serving.

Notes

*We highly recommend using the almond extract for the best flavor! 1/16 teaspoon equates to 1 to 2 drops, just enough to give it a nuance in flavor but not enough that it is strongly perceptible. We use a ⅛ teaspoon measure and fill it halfway; if you don’t have one, you can approximate using a ¼ teaspoon.

  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Dessert
  • Diet: Vegan

Keywords: Carrot cake cookies, carrot cake cookies recipe

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

30 Minute Meals for Busy People

Say hello to delicious, stress-free easy meal ideas! Here’s a treasure trove of 30 minute meals your taste buds and…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

Say hello to delicious, stress-free easy meal ideas! Here’s a treasure trove of 30 minute meals your taste buds and busy schedule will love.

30 minute meals

There are lots of sites out there claiming to “save your weeknights” with their fast and easy meal ideas. But how many times can you actually finish them in 30? And how often are they tasty enough to make again next week? Introducing, our top 30 minute meals that actually take 30 minutes and are so delicious, you’ll want to make them again and again! With each recipe, we’ve offered a few tips for simple sides to round them out into a meal.

And now, our top easy 30 minute meals!

More fast and easy meal ideas

Want more inspiration, or options for special diets? Browse these recipe collections for more fast and easy meal ideas:

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30 minute meals

30 Minute Meals for Busy People


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 bowl

Description

A hummus bowl makes the best easy lunch or dinner: no cooking required! Layer a dollop with crunchy veggie toppings.


Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup hummus
  • 8 English cucumber slices (or standard cucumber, peeled)
  • 1 handful red onion slices (or shallot)
  • 1 handful cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 handful Kalamata olives
  • 2 tablespoons feta cheese, to sprinkle (optional)
  • 1 handful baby greens or chopped lettuce (optional)
  • ½ cup cooked rice or packaged pre-cooked rice (optional) or Easy Couscous or Easy Orzo
  • 1 pita bread, pita chips, or gluten free crackers
  • Optional toppings: roasted red peppers, caper berries, fresh herbs, etc
  • Protein adders (optional): Frozen or homemade falafel, precooked chicken, canned tuna or salmon, 5-minute shrimp, etc

Instructions

  1. Place greens and rice in the bowl, if using (try packaged pre-cooked rice for a quick shortcut). If using rice, season it with salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Top with hummus, sliced cucumber, sliced red onions, sliced tomatoes, olives and feta cheese. Eat with pita wedges, using the hummus as a dip / dressing for the veggies.
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegan

Keywords: 30 minute meals

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

Go-To Balsamic Vinaigrette

This easy balsamic vinaigrette recipe uses only 4 ingredients and whips up in minutes! With its balance of sweet, tangy,…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

This easy balsamic vinaigrette recipe uses only 4 ingredients and whips up in minutes! With its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, it will become your go-to salad dressing. Ditch store bought dressing for good!

Balsamic Vinaigrette

Looking for a simple salad dressing to make at home? There’s really nothing better than this balsamic vinaigrette recipe. It’s creamy, tangy, a little bit sweet, and has that “something” that keeps you coming back for another bite. It’s extremely versatile, perfect on everything from a classic strawberry salad to a simple green salad. It has a short ingredient list and it comes together in less than 5 minutes. So why ever buy it again?

Ingredients in this balsamic vinaigrette

This balsamic vinaigrette recipe is very simple to whip up, especially because you might already have the ingredients on hand in your pantry. For this recipe you’ll need:

  • Aged balsamic vinegar: The quality of balsamic does make a difference! Look for a mid-priced commercial grade balsamic vinegar, also known as balsamic vinegar of Modena (IGP) or aceto balsamico di Modena. It has a developed, tangy sweet flavor and is perfect for salad dressings.
  • Dijon mustard: This ingredient adds tangy flavor and helps the dressing to become thick and creamy.
  • Maple syrup: The sweetness balances the tang of the vinegar. You can also substitute honey.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: This rich oil makes the dressing come together.
  • Salt: Add just the right seasoning with a hint of salt.
Balsamic Vinaigrette recipe

How to make balsamic vinaigrette dressing

This balsamic vinaigrette recipe is incredibly simple. The flavor is zesty and bright, tangy from the vinegar, balanced with a touch of maple syrup. Then it’s mixed together with extra virgin olive oil to form a creamy emulsion. We’ve also added a touch of Dijon mustard to give a little more zing and to help the creamy dressing stay emulsified. Here’s how to make this balsamic vinaigrette:

  • Whisk the ingredients in a medium sized bowl. In order to get the oil and vinegar to incorporate well, use a medium-sized bowl to allow for enough movement of the whisk. First, whisk the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and salt.
  • Add the olive oil gradually. We typically add it tablespoon by tablespoon and whisk in between until the oil fully incorporates.
  • Don’t omit the mustard! The Dijon mustard helps to form and lock in the emulsion. This technique works in a few other vinaigrette salad dressing recipes, like our Classic Vinaigrette and Italian Dressing.
Balsamic vinegar bottle with balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Types of balsamic vinegar

There are lots of types of balsamic vinegar at the store, and they vary widely in quality. There are three categories of balsamic vinegar:

  • Traditional balsamic vinegar, aka aceto balsamico tradizionale. This type of balsamic is aged 12 to 18 years, and has a very thick, syrupy texture. It’s the highest quality and most expensive. It’s not necessary for this recipe.
  • Commercial grade balsamic vinegar, aka balsamic vinegar of Modena (IGP) or aceto balsamico di Modena. This type is aged less than 12 years and has a developed, tangy sweet flavor. Try a commercial grade balsamic for this recipe if you can find one!
  • Condiment grade balsamic vinegar is the lowest grade. It has a thinner texture that’s more similar to other types of vinegar. The flavor varies widely on the brand. Very cheap brands can use sugar to mimic the sweetness of grapes, so look for bottles with ingredients that are only grapes or grape must.

A good rule of thumb for buying a good balsamic: look for a mid-priced bottle. Price is typically indicative of quality!

Ways to serve it!

This balsamic vinaigrette recipe is perfect on any type of salad that you throw together, especially salads with a sweet element like apples, berries, or sweet potatoes! Here are a few ideas of how to use it:

How would you serve this balsamic vinaigrette recipe? Let us know in the comments below!

Pear Gorgonzola Salad

More homemade salad dressing recipes

There are so many delicious salad dressing recipes to try! After this homemade balsamic vinaigrette recipe, here some favorites to try:

This balsamic vinagirette recipe is…

Vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free.

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Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe (4 Ingredients)


  • Author: Sonja
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: About 11 tablespoons

Description

This easy balsamic vinaigrette recipe uses only 4 ingredients (plus salt) and whips up in minutes! With its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, it will become your go-to salad dressing. Ditch store bought dressing for good!


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and salt until fully combined.
  2. Gradually whisk in the olive oil, adding 1 tablespoon at a time and whisking until it incorporates, until an emulsion forms.* Serve immediately. Store refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving (keeps at least 2 weeks).

Notes

Taste, and if you prefer a sweeter balsamic vinaigrette, you can add up to 1 tablespoon additional maple syrup.

  • Category: Salad Dressing
  • Method: Whisked
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Balsamic vinaigrette recipe, Balsamic vinaigrette dressing, How to make balsamic vinaigrette

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

Pear Gorgonzola Salad

This sweet and savory pear gorgonzola salad is a 5 star side dish! Juicy pears mingle with creamy cheese and…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

This sweet and savory pear gorgonzola salad is a 5 star side dish! Juicy pears mingle with creamy cheese and maple pecans, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

Pear Gorgonzola Salad

If you’re looking for an all star side dish, this pear gorgonzola salad is the one. This pretty little salad will have you smitten, and it tastes just as good as these swoon-worthy photos we took! It’s a celebration of flavors and textures, with juicy pears, funky cheese, dried cherries, and maple pecans glazed quickly in a skillet. It’s all tossed in our go-to balsamic vinaigrette dressing, and from first bite it will have you wanting more!

Types of pears for pear gorgonzola salad

There are several different types of pears you can find at the grocery store. Pretty much anything you can find works for this pear gorgonzola salad! The most common varieties you’ll find at grocery stores in the States are:

  • Bartlett pear: This classic pear is typically green with a rounded shape. It’s known for its soft, juicy flesh and sweet flavor.
  • Anjou pear (shown in photos): This pear comes in both green and red varieties. Anjou pears are slightly firmer than Bartletts and have a more balanced sweet and tart flavor.
  • Bosc pear: This type has a deep brown skin with fresh, juicy flesh that has earthy notes.
Pear Gorgonzola Salad

How to ripen pears

Pears that you buy from the grocery store are often very firm and can take a while to ripen. They look similar to apples, but you can think of them more in terms of bananas when it comes to ripening. Here are some tips on how to ripen pears:

  • The fastest way to ripen pears is to place them in a paper bag. Leave them at room temperature and they should be ripe in 2 to 4 days.
  • In a bowl on the counter, pears ripen in about 4 to 7 days. Check them by gently pressing the flesh to see if it is tender.
  • Don’t place pears in the refrigerator until they are ripe. The refrigerator slows the ripening process. If you place them in the fridge right away, they’ll be rock hard. Allow them to ripen first, then refrigerate only if you want to delay eating them.
Pears with knife

Tips for maple glazed pecans

A fun accessory for this pear gorgonzola salad is the quick maple glazed pecans. Our standard recipe for candied pecans is baked and takes about 30 minutes. If we’re looking to whip up a salad and we don’t have candied nuts on hand, we make these maple pecans!

It takes just 5 minutes: you toast the nuts in the skillet, then add cinnamon and salt for 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and stir in the maple syrup. It’s such a small amount that it will caramelize quickly with the residual heat of the pan. Set them on a plate to dry while you make the rest of the salad!

Gorgonzola vs blue cheese

Can you use blue cheese in a pear gorgonzola salad? Yes! Gorgonzola and blue cheese are terms that are often used interchangeably, but blue cheese is actually a category of cheese whereas gorgonzola is a type of blue cheese. Either cheese works here!

  • Gorgonzola is a cheese made in Italy. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a milder flavor compared to other blue cheeses. Its texture varies from creamy and spreadable to crumbly, depending on the aging process.
  • Blue cheese is a category of cheeses with blue veining from made from edible molds. This encompasses a wider range of varieties, made from milks like cow, goat, or sheep (gorgonzola is a type of blue cheese). Blue cheeses you find at the store can be much stronger and sharper than gorgonzola.
Balsamic Vinaigrette

Dressing variations for pear gorgonzola salad

This pear gorgonzola salad is delicious with the balsamic vinaigrette listed in the recipe below, which is one of our favorite salad dressing recipes on this website! However, it works with other vinaigrette-style dressings as well. Try one of the following:

Topping ideas

There are loads of ideas for different toppings for a pear gorgonzola salad. Keep the greens and pears but swap in different cheese, nuts or other mix-ins for a versatile side. Here are some of our top ideas:

  • Dried cranberries or raisins can stand in for the cherries.
  • Pomegranate seeds make a beautiful pop of color and could also substitute dried cherries.
  • Feta crumbles or goat cheese crumbles work well as a substitute for the cheese.
  • Walnuts work in the same way as the maple pecans.
  • Or, swap in almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, or pine nuts (try toasting them first for the best flavor).
  • Use pepitas to add another crunchy element.
Pear Gorgonzola Salad

Add protein to make it a main dish

This pear gorgonzola salad works in any season, though it’s an ideal fall salad or winter salad. It can be made into an instant main dish by topping with a protein. It works well with chicken or salmon, though you could also add tofu as a vegetarian protein. Here are some recipes for cooking the protein:

More salad recipes

Fruit served over greens with nuts and a vinaigrette is our style of salad! Here are some more of our favorite salad recipes that incorporate fruit:

This pear gorgonzola salad recipe is…

Vegetarian and gluten-free. For vegan, omit the gorgonzola.

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Pear Gorgonzola Salad

Pear Gorgonzola Salad


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4

Description

This sweet and savory pear gorgonzola salad is a 5 star side dish! Juicy pears mingle with creamy cheese and maple pecans, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing.


Ingredients

  • ½ cup pecan halves
  • ½ tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/16 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 recipe Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 1 ripe pear, sliced
  • 1 shallot
  • 8 cups butter lettuce (or other greens), torn
  • ⅓ cup gorgonzola cheese crumbles (or blue cheese)
  • ¼ cup dried cherries or cranberries

Instructions

  1. To make the maple pecans, toast the pecans in a skillet for 4 to 5 minutes until starting to brown and become fragrant. Add the cinnamon and salt and toast until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Turn off heat, and stir in maple syrup until well coated. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette salad dressing.
  3. Prep the fresh ingredients: Slice the pear into thin slices. Thinly slice the shallot. 
  4. To serve, place the greens on a plate or platter. Top with the pear slices, shallot, maple pecans, and gorgonzola cheese crumbles. Drizzle with the desired amount of dressing and serve (use approximately 6 tablespoons for 4 servings; store the remaining dressing refrigerated).
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Salad
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Pear gorgonzola salad, pear and gorgonzola salad

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

Breaded Tofu Sandwich

Welcome to the tofu sandwich of your dreams! This incredible vegan sandwich stars crispy breaded tofu, tangy Russian dressing, and…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

Welcome to the tofu sandwich of your dreams! This incredible vegan sandwich stars crispy breaded tofu, tangy Russian dressing, and crunchy pickles that create a flavor explosion everyone will love.

Tofu Sandwich

This really is the tofu sandwich of your dreams! Crispy breaded tofu, tangy Russian dressing, and crunchy pickles all create a flavor explosion that will have you wanting seconds. We modeled this recipe after a crispy fish sandwich, right down to that savory creamy sauce, and it’s got all the most satisfying flavor and texture contrasts. We tested this on a friend who doesn’t like tofu, and she gobbled it right up! It’s a fun plant-based recipe and vegan dinner to impress your friends and family.

The keys to this tofu sandwich

Here’s the thing about a tofu sandwich: tofu has a very soft texture. It’s so soft, in fact, that it can be hard to detect texture-wise when served on bread if you’re not careful. That’s why we created this crispy breaded tofu. To make a satisfying sandwich, you’ve got to have that contrasting texture of the protein.

Add to that veggies, crunchy pickles, and Russian dressing, which is that irresistibly tangy condiment that makes a Big Mac so satiating. (I’m starting to salivate just thinking about it!) Here’s what you’ll need for this tofu sandwich recipe:

  • Extra firm tofu
  • Soy sauce
  • Panko (plain unseasoned)
  • Cornstarch
  • Onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper
  • Olive oil
  • Buns
  • Shredded lettuce or greens
  • Pickles
  • Russian Dressing
Tofu Sandwich

Tips for making breaded tofu

The star of the show in this sandwich is the panko breaded tofu, which gives it a lovely crisp exterior similar to the vibe of a crispy fish sandwich. Panko is a Japanese-style breadcrumb mixture that is airier and lighter than traditional breadcrumbs. Here you’ll press a mixture of panko and seasoned cornstarch onto the outside of the tofu, then pan fry until it’s crispy. Here are a few tips for the process:

  • There’s no need to press the tofu! Many tofu recipes press out the liquid, which takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. But there’s no need for a wait time with this recipe! Simply pat it dry with a towel.
  • Slice the tofu into rectangles. We like to slice the tofu into 8 thin slabs lengthwise, then in half for 16 rectangles total. You can do other shapes, but these are easy to work with. The most important part is having the tofu relatively thin so it gets fully seasoned.
  • Dip the tofu in soy sauce. Place the tofu slabs in a shallow bowl with 4 tablespoons soy sauce, dipping each side in, then remove them to a plate. You won’t use all this soy sauce, it just needs to be a good amount so you can dip in the pieces. Discard the remainder.
  • Dip the tofu slabs into the panko breading mix, pressing it in with your fingers to help it adhere to each side.
  • Pan fry the tofu in batches. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet (or enough to cover the bottom) and add half the tofu slabs. Cook on medium high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Repeat with the second batch of tofu.
Breaded tofu on plate

A note on the buns

It’s helpful to have a sturdy bun with a texture like an artisan bread for this tofu sandwich, like a ciabatta roll. Many hamburger buns are soft and fluffy, which make for a less satisfying sandwich since the tofu has a soft texture. These work for proteins like hamburger and fish that have a lot of texture, but it’s not as delicious with tofu.

For vegan, make sure the bun has vegan ingredients. Most ciabatta rolls are vegan, as are artisan breads like sourdough or no knead bread.

Making the Russian dressing

You know that creamy, savory sauce that makes you unable to stop inhaling a Reuben sandwich or a Big Mac? Yes, that’s Russian dressing. It’s very easy to make at home, and a slather of it makes any sandwich undeniably delicious. It’s made of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a few other key tangy and savory ingredients that work together to make it altogether addicting.

Russian dressing takes this breaded tofu sandwich over the top, so make sure to include it when you make the sandwich! If you eat fully vegan, make sure to make the sauce with vegan mayonnaise.

Tofu Sandwich

Sides to serve with this tofu sandwich

How to turn this tofu sandwich into a meal? Add a side of coleslaw, fries, or salad and you’ve got a hearty dinner! Here are a few ways we’d accessorize it:

Is tofu healthy?

There’s lots of misinformation about tofu and soy products swirling around. Often we get the question: is tofu healthy? Here’s what to know about eating tofu and other soy products like tempeh and edamame:

  • Tofu in moderation is part of a healthy diet (several times per week). Per to the Harvard School of Nutrition, soy is a nutrient-dense source of protein that can safely be consumed several times a week.
  • Tofu is likely to provide health benefits, especially when you eat it as an alternative to red meat and processed meat. See Straight Talk About Soy and Is Tofu Good for You? for more.

More tofu recipes

There are so many tasty ways to enjoy this vegan protein! Here are some of our favorite tofu recipes:

This breaded tofu sandwich recipe is…

Vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free; for vegan, use vegan buns and vegan mayonnaise.

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Tofu Sandwich

Breaded Tofu Sandwich


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches

Description

Welcome to the tofu sandwich of your dreams! This incredible vegan sandwich stars crispy breaded tofu, tangy Russian dressing, and crunchy pickles that create a flavor explosion everyone will love.


Ingredients

  • 14 ounces extra firm tofu
  • Soy sauce, for dipping
  • 1 cup plain panko 
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder 
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for cooking
  • 4 buns, for serving*
  • Shredded lettuce or mixed greens (or coleslaw mix)
  • 1 handful pickles
  • 1 recipe Russian Dressing (use vegan mayonnaise for vegan)

Instructions

  1. Slice the tofu into 8 thin slabs lengthwise, then in half for 16 rectangles total. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
  2. Place the tofu slabs in a shallow bowl with 4 tablespoons soy sauce, dipping each side in, then remove them to a plate. Discard the remaining soy sauce.
  3. Meanwhile, make the breading station: mix the panko, cornstarch, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt in a small bowl, then pour it onto a plate in a single layer.
  4. Dip the tofu slabs into the breading mix, pressing it in with your fingers to help it adhere to each side.
  5. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and add half the tofu slabs (or enough to cover the bottom). Cook on medium high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Repeat with the second batch of tofu.
  6. Make the sandwich by layering the tofu on a bun with pickles, Russian dressing, and topping with chopped greens. Enjoy immediately. Leftover tofu lasts up to 3 days; rewarm in a dry skillet before serving.

Notes

*It’s helpful to have a sturdy bun with a texture like an artisan bread (like a ciabatta roll). A soft and fluffy hamburger bun is less satisfying since the tofu has a soft texture. For vegan, make sure the bun has vegan ingredients.

  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tofu
  • Diet: Vegan

Keywords: Tofu sandwich

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

12 Healthy Pancakes Recipes

Here are all our favorite healthy pancake recipes packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, to satisfy your cravings without…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

Here are all our favorite healthy pancake recipes packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, to satisfy your cravings without compromise!

Healthy pancake recipes

Need a healthy pancakes recipe? There are many different options, depending on what you’re looking for! There’s no one definition of a healthy pancake: some people may look at overall calories per pancake, others may prefer those that are loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients or conform to a certain diet. So this list contains lots of different options! Try recipes like Oatmeal Pancakes made with 100% oats (no flour), or high-protein Cottage Cheese. Opt for vegan pancakes, or those loaded with banana or applesauce. Ready to get started?

And now…our top healthy pancake recipes to try!

Topping ideas for healthy pancakes

Another thing to think about when it comes to pancakes? The topping! Make sure not to load on caloric or sugary toppings. The best toppings here?

More healthy breakfast recipes

Need more ideas for healthy breakfasts? Seems like we’re always in need of more. Here are some of our top ideas:

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Healthy pancakes

Healthy Oatmeal Pancakes (& More Ideas!)


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: About 9 large or 12 small pancakes

Description

These deliciously easy banana oatmeal pancakes are made in a blender using oats and bananas: no flour! They’re delicious with a healthy spin. 


Ingredients

  • 2 cups Old Fashioned rolled oats
  • ¼ cup plain or vanilla yogurt (Greek or whole milk work)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk of choice
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted (or neutral oil)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup mashed very ripe bananas (about 2 medium)

Instructions

  1. Place the oats, Greek yogurt, eggs, milk, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, baking powder and kosher salt in a blender. Blend on high until a smooth batter forms. 
  2. Mash the bananas, then stir them into the blender with a spatula. 
  3. Lightly grease a skillet with butter and wipe off extra grease with a paper towel. Heat the skillet over low heat. Add a few more tablespoons milk to the batter until it is still thick but can pour out of the blender. Pour the batter into small circles. Cook the pancakes until the bubbles pop on the top and the bottoms are golden: low and slow is the key! Then flip them and cook until golden on the other side. 
  4. Add another tablespoon or two of milk to the remaining batter and stir so that it is pourable. Cook the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as necessary (the skillet can get very hot on the second batch). Place the cooked pancakes under an inverted bowl to keep them warm. Serve immediately with maple syrup.
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Healthy pancakes, healthy pancake recipes

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.

Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Wow is all we can say about these vegan oatmeal cookies! These delightfully chewy, cinnamon-spiced chocolate chip cookies please eaters…

A Couple Cooks – Recipes worth repeating.

Wow is all we can say about these vegan oatmeal cookies! These delightfully chewy, cinnamon-spiced chocolate chip cookies please eaters of any diet: no one will believe they’re vegan. We dare you to eat just one!

Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Wow is all we can say about these vegan oatmeal cookies: outrageously chewy, full-flavored, and so delicious no one would guess they are plant-based. This spin on our popular vegan chocolate chip cookies might be even tastier (if that’s possible!). They’re loaded with hearty Old Fashioned oats, seasoned with cinnamon, and have got just the right chewy texture. We stumbled upon this formula for delicious vegan cookies and have been riffing on it ever since: and these are stupendous if we might say so ourselves!

Key ingredients for vegan oatmeal cookies

Making a vegan cookie is quite the challenge, because vegan baking requires omitting the butter and eggs that make a typical cookie texture. Here at A Couple Cooks we developed a formula for making a great vegan chocolate chip cookie using a combination of neutral oil, coconut oil, and applesauce to stand in for the typical butter and eggs. It works like a charm, making a deliciously chewy cookie with crispy edges, not cakey or dry. The texture really is quite magical!

This basic formula makes a really great vegan oatmeal chocolate chip cookie, with a good amount of Old Fashioned oats mixed in and a handful of chocolate chips (or you can substitute raisins). Here are a few ingredient notes on the key ingredients for these cookies:

  • Refined coconut oil: Refined is important because it has a neutral flavor; unrefined coconut oil has more of a coconut flavor. Using coconut oil is important for the dough texture because it is a fat that is solid at room temperature, similar to butter.
  • Neutral oil: You can use grapeseed, canola or vegetable oil; we typically use grapeseed.
  • Granulated and light brown sugar: The mix of sugars is key for the flavor here, especially the brown sugar since it has hints of molasses in the flavor.
  • Unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce works surprisingly well in place of the egg to hold the dough together and add moisture. You can substitute sweetened applesauce if desired.
  • Vanilla extract and almond extract: Vanilla extract is key to cookie dough. But we’ve added one more element: a hint of almond extract! It brings a toasty, complex nuance to the flavor without overpowering it.
Vegan Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Notes on almond extract

We highly recommend using the almond extract for the best flavor! This is helpful for a vegan cookie since it doesn’t have the richness of egg or butter. The recipe calls for 1/16 teaspoon extract, which equates to 1 to 2 drops, just enough to give it a nuance in flavor but not enough that it is strongly perceptible.

It might sound like a random measurement, but don’t be tempted to skip it! We use a ⅛ teaspoon measure and fill it halfway; if you don’t have one, you can approximate using a ¼ teaspoon.

Vegan Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Tips for baking vegan oatmeal chocolate chip cookies

These vegan oatmeal cookies are so simple to put together. Many cookie recipes require the dough to chill before baking, but this recipe requires no wait time at all! Mix up the batter and get to it. Here are a few things to note about equipment that helps to pull these cookies together:

  • Use a cookie scoop or weigh the batter. If you have a 3 tablespoon cookie scoop, it’s helpful for portioning the dough: just overfill it slightly. You can also weigh out the batter at approximately 50 grams per cookie (or weigh your entire dough and divide by 18).
  • Non-stick cookie sheets are helpful. This has become our preferred method for cookies. We recommend using two of these non-stick cookie sheets for the most even bake.
  • Bake each tray separately for the most even bake. Do not refrigerate the cookie dough while the first tray bakes. We found that the dough texture is even better if it’s room temperature. If you have a very even oven, you can try baking both sheets at once and rotate the sheets halfway through.
  • Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring to a baking rack to cool.
Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Storage info

Vegan oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are tasty warm, after sitting on the baking sheet for 10 minutes and cooling on a baking rack for 10 minutes. The cookies also hold up well over time, keeping their chewy texture. Here’s what to note about storing these vegan oatmeal cookies cookies:

  • Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well: no need to add anything to the container.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. 
Vegan Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

We love making vegan recipes that don’t taste like there are any compromises. Here are a few more vegan desserts and cookies you’ll love:

This vegan oatmeal cookies recipe is…

Vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free. For gluten-free and vegan, go to Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies.

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Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

*Amazing* Vegan Oatmeal Cookies


  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 18 to 19 cookies

Description

Wow is all we can say about these vegan oatmeal cookies! These delightfully chewy, cinnamon-spiced chocolate chip cookies please eaters of any diet: no one will believe they’re vegan. We dare you to eat just one!


Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola or vegetable)
  • ¼ cup refined coconut oil (at room temperature)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/16 teaspoon almond extract*
  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ¼ cups Old Fashioned oats
  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips (we used 63% Guittard) or raisins

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper, or omit if using non-stick cookie sheets (we swear by these).
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), add the neutral oil, coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix with the paddle attachment (or an electric mixer) on Medium speed until fully combined, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond extract and mix until combined, a few seconds. 
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, kosher salt, and Old Fashioned Oats. Turn on the mixer and gradually add the flour and oats mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Add the chocolate chips and mix on low for a few seconds until mixed in. The dough will feel slightly oily, but this is as expected.
  4. Scoop nine 3-tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving a few inches between each cookie for spreading (using a cookie scoop is helpful; we overfilled our 2 tablespoon scoop or weigh out 50 grams each). Bake one batch for 12 to 13 minutes, or until just golden (baking one batch at a time makes the most even bake). Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool fully. They taste great warm after cooling on the rack for about 10 minutes, or fully cooled. 
  5. While the cookies cool, portion out and bake the second batch of dough; don’t refrigerate the dough in between. Store in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for 3 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving).

Notes

*We highly recommend using the almond extract for the best flavor! 1/16 teaspoon equates to 1 to 2 drops, just enough to give it a nuance in flavor but not enough that it is strongly perceptible. We use a ⅛ teaspoon measure and fill it halfway; if you don’t have one, you can approximate using a ¼ teaspoon.

  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Dessert
  • Diet: Vegan

Keywords: Vegan oatmeal cookies, vegan oatmeal chocolate chip cookies

A Couple Cooks - Recipes worth repeating.