This recipe has been modified from an earlier post.  These cookies are nut-free and oil free and are sweetened with dates, figs and raisins (optional).   I have given some as as Christmas cookies and they are a huge hit!  I promise these will satisfy your sweet tooth without the lethargic and heavy after effects.  The ones in the photo do not have raisins.

Oatmeal Date Cookies

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

5 figs

8-10 medjool dates

1 tbsp ground flaxseed

1 tbsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup raisins (optional)

sea salt to taste

Soak dates and figs in 2/3 cup water for 30-60 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 and line 2 cookie trays with parchment paper.

Grind 1 cup of the  rolled oats in a food processor or coffee grinder then mix in with remaining rolled oats, salt, cinnamon and flax seeds and raisins.  You an also grind all the oats.

Puree dates and figs in a food processor with 1/4 cup water and then add vanilla.

Mix dry and wet ingredients.  Add some of remaining soaking water if needed.

Use a small ice cream scoop to transfer cookies to baking sheet or use your hands to form into balls.   (Wet hands to forms balls so the batter does not stick to your fingers.)  Press each ball gently to flatten to about 1/2 inch height.  (Makes 24-26 small cookies or 12-16 large ones)

Bake for 10-12 minutes.