Poor Man'S Cookies
Poor Man's Cookies are simple, hearty treats made with oats, sugars, and a touch of vanilla. Their chewy texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for a quick snack or casual dessert, appealing to those who enjoy nostalgic, no-fuss baking with a satisfying crunch and sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine oats, brown sugar, white sugar, salt, and flour in a mixing bowl.
- Mix soda and hot water in a separate small bowl.
- Stir the soda-water mixture into the oats mixture along with melted and cooled shortening and vanilla until well combined.
- Make into walnut-sized balls.
- Place the balls on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to stand for 2 minutes before removing from the pans to a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough. For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour or use coconut oil in place of shortening. If you're short on time, skip forming balls and drop spoonfuls directly onto the baking sheet for a more rustic look.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect as a quick snack or dessert and pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or the refreshing Summer Strawberry Drink. For a fun treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumble them over yogurt for breakfast. They're also great for lunchboxes or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a resealable bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Cookies contains roughly 99 calories, with 0g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Quick oats absorb moisture more quickly, resulting in a softer cookie. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both alternatives will provide a rich flavor and slightly different texture, so choose based on your dietary preferences and taste.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, replace the shortening with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For the egg, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water equals one egg) to help bind the ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).