[Recipe] Ayurveda-Inspired Cardamom Rose Oatmeal Cookies

Move over herbal tea—there’s a new aromatic spa snack in town! Wellness pros looking to add some healthy eats to their amenities should look no further than these Cardamom Rose Oatmeal Cookies by Christina Vargas, A.H.P, board-certified Ayurvedic health practitioner, yoga therapist, herbalist and owner of SimpleVeda in Dallas.

Not only are they sweet for the senses, but these Ayurveda-inspired cookies are plenty nutritious. The stress-relieving scent and flavor of rose blends with uplifting spices, and they’re made with nourishing rolled oats rich in protein and fiber. Make it vegan by substituting flaxseed egg wash for the eggs: Just grind 2 Tbsp. flaxseed and whisk with 6 Tbsp. of room temperature water until light and fluffy.

“This is one of my favorite recipes to make, as I love the spice of the cardamom and the sweetness and herbal aromas of the rose! It is a take on an old favorite Betty Crocker recipe, replacing Crisco with ghee,” says Vargas. “They have been a winner in my house and they’ve been a hit at parties too!”

These blush-colored treats are also a delight to look at. Serve these pretty treats to spa guests or simply enjoy them yourself for an aromatic and nutritious snack.

In a large bowl, mix ghee, dates and sugar until creamed together. Beat in eggs or flaxseed egg wash, then add vanilla. In another bowl, stir together flour, rose, spices and salt. Add to ghee mixture and stir well. Slowly stir in oats. Place a dollop of mixture 2 inches apart on a greased baking sheet, then bake at 375°F for 9-12 minutes until golden, slightly crunchy on top and soft in the center.

Cardamom Rose Oatmeal Cookies

• 1 cup ghee (softened, room temperature)
• 1/2 cup dry dates, chopped
• 1 cup maple syrup or raw cane sugar
• 2 eggs (vegan option: use flaxseed egg wash)
• 11/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 11/4 cup rice, oat or bran flour
• 1/2 cup rose petal powder
• 1/2 tsp. sea salt
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
• 2 tsp. cardamom
• 3 cups rolled oats