Healthy Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies in 27 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Note: A fully preheated oven is vital for that immediate lift from the baking soda.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp melted coconut oil until the mixture is silky and fully combined.
3. Add the 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1.5 cups whole wheat flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 cup erythritol directly into the wet base.
4. Use a silicone spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the wet until no white streaks of flour are visible.
5. Gently fold in the 1/3 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips. Note: Don't overmix here; we want the chips evenly distributed without toughening the dough.
6. Let the cookie batter rest for 5 minutes until the oats have softened and the batter looks slightly thicker.
7. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any sticking.
8. Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to place rounded portions of dough onto the sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them.
9. Bake for 12 minutes until the edges are a light golden brown and the centers feel set to a gentle touch.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes until they are firm enough to move to a wire rack. > Chef's Tip: If you want a flatter, more cookie like shape, gently press the tops of the dough balls down with a damp fork before baking. Since there is very little fat, these cookies won't spread much on their own!