Finding the right running cookies is a win for runners of all ability levels. Not only are cookies delicious, but they are great for fueling both before and during a run – as well as afterwards.
However, most runners try to avoid the extra sugars and processed ingredients that come in many standard cookie recipes. Not only are those types of ingredients not the healthiest, but they usually provide a quick energy boost that leads to bonking later on.
Luckily, there is a simple way to avoid this: make your own running cookies. These cookies taste just as delicious, but are made from simple, wholesome ingredients that can be found around the house.
How to make running cookies?
Making these cookies is incredibly easy. Simply whisk together the wet ingredients, add the dry ingredients and then mix. Once complete, bake for 15 minutes and you have some delicious, wholesome running fuel!
The recipe calls for optional protein powder, as well as chocolate chips. If you prefer to keep the recipe minimally processed, feel free to leave them both out. For an extra protein boost to keep you full, try adding some plain or vanilla flavored protein powder. And for the extra sweetness – try the chocolate chips.
Feel free to customize the cookies with any extra seeds or dried fruit. A few ideas to try:
- Dried cherries
- Dried cranberries
- Sunflower seeds
- Chia seeds
- Hemp seeds
- Chopped peanuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Cacao nibs
When is best to consume the cookies for running?
These easy oatmeal cookies are a great snack try before a run. The oats provide slow burning fuel, while the honey and applesauce pack in a great energy boost.
They also make great mid-run fuel! Pack one or two cookies for you next long run to help avoid bonking and keep your energy high. Or, try a cookie as soon as you return from your run to refuel.
Most runners need to eat quite a bit to fuel any high levels of training – whether it be high mileage or high intensity. Long distance running requires a great deal of extra calories before, during and after runs. Having some running cookies on hand in the fridge or freezer is a great way to make fueling easy and delicious during training.
Try these cookies for your next long run!
Easy Oatmeal Running Cookies
INGREDIENTS
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ cup applesauce
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 scoop protein powder *optional
- ½ cup raisins
- ¼ chocolate chips *optional
- 1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees; line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Mix flax and water in a small bowl and set aside to gel
- Whisk together peanut butter, honey, applesauce and vanilla
- Add flax + water mixture, oats, protein powder (if using), raisins and chocolate chips
- Mix well to combine
- Form balls using your hands and place on baking sheet; flatten slightly
- Bake for 15 minutes; let cool for 5 minutes before moving
These cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer. Feel free to double the recipe and make some extras to keep in the freezer. That way, you’ll always have some on hand for those early mornings or weekend long runs.