Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies are a healthier take on traditional oat cookies. The recipe focuses on simplicity, speed and a lighter version that still satisfies the craving for something sweet and crunchy. These cookies are made using an air fryer which means you can enjoy them without the need for a hot oven. The air fryer gives the cookies that crispy, golden-brown texture on the outside while keeping them soft and chewy on the inside. It’s all about the balance between indulgence and healthiness, with oats providing fiber and a subtle nutty flavor.
The beauty of Jamie’s version lies in its flexibility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences. Want a vegan version? No problem. You can swap butter for plant-based alternatives. It doesn’t require a long list of fancy ingredients. just basics you probably already have in your pantry.
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Oat Cookies Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for the cookies:
- Oats: The base of the recipe. Use whole rolled oats for that chewy, hearty texture.
- Butter: Butter gives a rich flavor and helps bind the ingredients. You can substitute with coconut oil or margarine if you’re vegan.
- Brown Sugar: Adds that lovely caramelized sweetness and a touch of moisture to the dough.
- Egg: Eggs help with the binding and texture. You can use a flax egg as a vegan alternative.
- Baking Powder: A little lift to make the cookies soft and slightly puffed.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works well here. You can also use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Vanilla Extract: For that classic cookie flavor.
- Pinch of Salt: To enhance all the sweet flavors.
- Chocolate Chips (optional): Optional but a great addition for some extra indulgence. You can also use raisins or dried cranberries if you want to make them a bit more festive or fruity.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need too much special equipment for this recipe, making it super easy to whip up.
- Air Fryer: The star of the show. Make sure you have a basket-style air fryer that can fit the cookies comfortably.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of bowls to mix your wet and dry ingredients.
- Spoon or Cookie Scoop: To shape the cookie dough into small portions.
- Parchment Paper or Baking Liner: Lining the air fryer basket is a must to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy, since baking is all about balance.
- Spatula: To help scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix everything evenly.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies
Step 1: Prep The Ingredients
Start by softening the butter in a bowl, then add the sugar, egg and vanilla. Beat these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: oats, flour, baking powder and salt. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips or raisins here if you like.
Step 2: Mix Wet And Dry Ingredients
Now, combine the wet and dry ingredients. Start adding the dry ingredients into the wet mix gradually, stirring as you go. Don’t overmix as you want a nice, sticky dough. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at the end.
Step 3: Shape The Dough
Scoop out small spoonfuls of dough and roll them into little balls. Flatten them slightly with your hands or the back of a spoon to form cookie shapes.
Step 4: Air Frying
Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper. Arrange the cookie dough balls in a single layer, leaving enough space for them to spread out as they cook. Set the air fryer to around 160°C (320°F) and cook for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and slightly firm on the edges.
Step 5: Cool And Serve
Let them cool for a few minutes in the basket, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart.
What I Learnt
Making Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies is a game-changer, especially for busy days when you want a homemade snack without spending too much time in the kitchen. The air fryer really does work wonders-cookies come out crisp on the edges but perfectly chewy in the center.
One thing I learned was how much flexibility this recipe offers. You can play with the add-ins (like swapping the sugar for honey or maple syrup) or adjust the texture by using different types of oats. The air fryer also allows for less mess and no need to heat up your whole kitchen with an oven.
Another interesting discovery was how quickly they cook. With traditional baking, you’d usually spend around 10-15 minutes in the oven. The air fryer cuts that down significantly which is perfect when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to wait forever.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies are a tasty, simple treat but there’s always room for a little creativity, right? Here are a few tweaks you can make depending on your preferences.
1. Add-ins Galore
If you love the idea of mixing flavors, think about tossing in some extra ingredients. You could add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a richer cookie. Or why not go for dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy burst in every bite? Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans also add a lovely crunch and some heart-healthy fats.
2. Spice it Up
If you want your cookies to have a warm, comforting kick, throw in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg or even cardamom. These spices enhance the oats and create a homely vibe that will make your kitchen smell amazing. For a tropical twist, consider adding a dash of ginger or even a little zest of orange.
3. Sweeteners with a Twist
Jamie uses sugar or honey but why not switch things up? You could use maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. Alternatively, coconut sugar or agave nectar gives a slightly different flavor profile which can be fun to experiment with.
4. Vegan or Dairy-Free Version
If you’re looking to make the recipe vegan or dairy-free, simply swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For the egg, flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) works beautifully to keep the cookies together while maintaining a soft, chewy texture.
5. Oats Choice
Not all oats are created equal! You can use old-fashioned rolled oats for a chewy texture or quick oats for a smoother, more uniform cookie. Steel-cut oats, on the other hand, will give you a more rustic, hearty feel but they may require a little extra time in the air fryer.
By making these small changes, you can craft a batch that perfectly suits your tastes. It’s all about making the recipe your own!
Storage Tips For Leftovers
Let’s be real: sometimes, you don’t eat every single cookie in one sitting (though that’s definitely the goal!). So, how do you store these oat cookies so they stay fresh?
1. Keep Them Airtight
The best way to preserve your cookies is to store them in an airtight container. This prevents air from drying them out and helps maintain their chewy texture. If you’re not planning to eat them all right away, make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
2. Room Temperature or Refrigerated?
If you’re planning to enjoy the leftovers within a few days, storing them at room temperature works fine. Just place them in a cool, dry area. However, for longer storage, pop them in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to a week. The cold will help preserve the moisture in the cookies.
3. Freezing Leftovers
If you’ve made a huge batch and want to save some for later, freeze the cookies. Let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can even layer them with wax paper to prevent them from sticking. Frozen cookies can last for up to three months and when you’re craving one, simply heat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring it back to life!
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies?
These oat cookies are already a perfect snack on their own but if you want to take it up a notch, here are some tasty pairings:
1. A Hot Drink
Nothing goes better with an oat cookie than a warm beverage. Brew up a cup of tea. maybe something like Earl Grey or chamomile. or even a rich, smooth coffee. If you’re feeling indulgent, pour a glass of chilled milk or a plant-based alternative to complement the cookie’s chewy texture. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top wouldn’t hurt either!
2. Fresh Fruit
To balance the richness of the cookies, fresh fruit is always a great sidekick. Think sliced apples or pears which have a nice crispness that cuts through the sweet, dense cookie. If you want to lean into the tropical side of things, fresh pineapple or mango slices work great, especially if you’ve added some tropical flavors to your cookies.
3. Yogurt or Ice Cream
For a more decadent treat, serve your cookies alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or even better, a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the soft, slightly crumbly oat cookies.
4. Nut Butter
If you’re feeling a bit extra, spread a little peanut butter, almond butter or even cashew butter on your cookie for a delicious protein-packed treat. The salty-sweet combo is simply divine!
5. Smoothies
Pair your cookie with a healthy smoothie. A berry-based smoothie with spinach or a tropical mango blend would bring out the natural flavors of the oats while adding some extra nutrients to the mix.
FAQs
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Oat Cookies Without An Air Fryer?
Yes! You can bake them in the oven instead. Just preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 10-12 minutes.
What’s The Best Way To Store Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Oat Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I Add Other Ingredients To The Air Fryer Oat Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add things like raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts to customize them to your taste.
