Fuel Your Adventures: Delicious Side of the Trail Cookies Recipes

Embarking on a hike or any outdoor adventure requires proper sustenance. While trail mix and energy bars are staples, sometimes you crave something more satisfying and homemade. Enter: Side of the Trail Cookies! These aren’t just any cookies; they are designed to be packed, portable, and packed with energy to keep you going. This article delves into a variety of Side of the Trail Cookie recipes, each tailored to different tastes and nutritional needs, complete with detailed instructions and helpful tips.

What Makes a Great Side of the Trail Cookie?

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s define what makes a cookie perfect for the trail:

* **Durability:** They need to withstand being jostled in a backpack without crumbling into a mess.
* **Energy-Packed:** High in calories from healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and protein for sustained energy.
* **Easy to Eat:** Bite-sized or easily breakable for quick consumption.
* **Moisture:** Some moisture is good to prevent them from being too dry on a long hike, but not so much that they spoil quickly.
* **Flavor:** Delicious and satisfying to provide a mental boost during challenging climbs.
* **Portability:** Small and compact for easy packing.

Recipe 1: Classic Oatmeal Raisin Trail Cookies

These are a trail classic for a reason: they’re hearty, delicious, and provide sustained energy.

**Yields:** About 24 cookies
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup packed brown sugar
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 3 cups rolled oats
* 1 cup raisins
* ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

**Equipment:**

* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
* Cookie scoop (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps to create a tender cookie.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking ensures the baking soda and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. **Stir in Oats, Raisins, and Nuts (if using):** Stir in the rolled oats, raisins, and chopped nuts (if using). Ensure the oats and raisins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. You can use a cookie scoop for more uniform cookies.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Pack for the Trail:** Once completely cooled, pack the cookies in an airtight container or resealable bag for your adventure. Consider wrapping them individually for easier snacking on the trail.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Chocolate Chips:** For a chocolatey twist, add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
* **Use Different Dried Fruits:** Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or dates.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients for extra flavor.
* **Make them Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
* **Reduce Sugar:** Decrease the amount of sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cookie. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your taste.

Recipe 2: Peanut Butter Energy Bites Cookies

These cookies are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a great energy source for long hikes.

**Yields:** About 20 cookies
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**No Bake Time:** These are no-bake cookies!

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup rolled oats
* ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
* ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
* ¼ cup protein powder (whey, soy, or plant-based)
* ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, or cashews)
* ¼ cup seeds (chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds)
* ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Equipment:**

* Mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cookie scoop (optional)
* Airtight container

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients: rolled oats, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), protein powder, chopped nuts, seeds, dried cranberries (or raisins), and vanilla extract.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be sticky but able to hold its shape.
3. **Form Cookies:** Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls or cookie shapes. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the cookies to firm up. This will make them easier to pack and eat on the trail.
5. **Pack for the Trail:** Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Pack them in a resealable bag or container for your hiking trip.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Stir in ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey treat.
* **Use Different Nut Butters:** Substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
* **Add Coconut Flakes:** Incorporate shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
* **Make them Vegan:** Use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based protein powder.
* **Customize with Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for extra warmth.

Recipe 3: Chewy Granola Bar Cookies

These cookies combine the best of both worlds: the chewiness of a cookie and the heartiness of a granola bar.

**Yields:** About 16 cookies
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15-18 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* ½ cup packed brown sugar
* ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 2 cups rolled oats
* ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
* ½ cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots)
* ¼ cup seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or flax seeds)
* ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)

**Equipment:**

* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
* Cookie scoop (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. **Cream Butter, Sugar, and Honey:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and honey (or maple syrup) until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Stir in Oats, Nuts, Dried Fruit, Seeds, and Coconut (if using):** Stir in the rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, seeds, and shredded coconut (if using). Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheet:** Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Pack for the Trail:** Once completely cooled, pack the cookies in an airtight container or resealable bag for your adventure. Consider wrapping them individually for easy snacking.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Spices:** Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
* **Use Different Sweeteners:** Substitute honey or maple syrup with agave nectar or molasses.
* **Add Chocolate Chunks:** Incorporate chopped chocolate chunks for a richer, more indulgent cookie.
* **Experiment with Dried Fruits:** Use a mix of different dried fruits, such as cherries, blueberries, or mango.
* **Add Citrus Zest:** Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright, refreshing flavor.

Recipe 4: High-Protein Quinoa Cookies

These cookies are a great option for those seeking a gluten-free and protein-rich trail snack.

**Yields:** About 18 cookies
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled
* ½ cup almond butter or peanut butter
* ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
* 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup almond flour or oat flour
* ¼ cup protein powder (whey, soy, or plant-based)
* ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
* ¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins
* ¼ cup chocolate chips (optional)

**Equipment:**

* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
* Cookie scoop (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), egg (or flax egg), and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
3. **Add Dry Ingredients:** Add the almond flour (or oat flour), protein powder, chopped nuts, dried cranberries (or raisins), and chocolate chips (if using). Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheet:** Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set.
6. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Pack for the Trail:** Once completely cooled, pack the cookies in an airtight container or resealable bag for your adventure. Consider wrapping them individually.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Different Flours:** Substitute almond flour with coconut flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
* **Add Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for added warmth and flavor.
* **Experiment with Seeds:** Add chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds for extra nutrients.
* **Make them Vegan:** Use maple syrup instead of honey and a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your desired sweetness level.

Recipe 5: Savory Trail Cookies (Cheese and Herb)

Who says trail cookies have to be sweet? These savory cookies are a delicious and satisfying alternative, perfect for those who prefer less sugar.

**Yields:** About 20 cookies
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* ½ teaspoon baking powder
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese
* ¼ cup finely chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or chives)
* 2-3 tablespoons cold water

**Equipment:**

* Mixing bowl
* Food processor (optional)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
* Cookie cutter (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Alternatively, you can use a food processor to pulse the ingredients together.
4. **Add Cheese and Herbs:** Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
5. **Add Water:** Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to add too much water.
6. **Form Cookies:** Gently press the dough into a disc. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes, or simply cut the dough into squares or rectangles.
7. **Place on Baking Sheet:** Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Pack for the Trail:** Once completely cooled, pack the cookies in an airtight container for your adventure.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or feta.
* **Add Spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Incorporate Vegetables:** Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
* **Egg Wash:** Brush the tops of the cookies with an egg wash before baking for a golden-brown finish.

Packaging and Storing Your Trail Cookies

Proper packaging is crucial to keep your Side of the Trail Cookies fresh and intact during your adventures. Here are some tips:

* **Airtight Containers:** Use airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent the cookies from drying out or becoming stale.
* **Individual Wrapping:** Wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper for easier snacking and to prevent them from sticking together.
* **Layering:** When packing multiple cookies in a container, layer them with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking.
* **Cooling Completely:** Always ensure the cookies are completely cooled before packaging them to prevent moisture buildup.
* **Storage:** Store the cookies in a cool, dry place. Some cookies, like the peanut butter energy bites, are best stored in the refrigerator.

Important Considerations for Trail Baking

* **Altitude Adjustments:** If you are baking at a high altitude, you may need to adjust the recipe slightly. Reduce the amount of baking powder and increase the liquid content.
* **Food Safety:** When baking for outdoor adventures, food safety is paramount. Ensure all ingredients are fresh and stored properly. Avoid using raw eggs or dairy products that are prone to spoiling.
* **Nut Allergies:** Be mindful of nut allergies when preparing cookies for a group. Clearly label cookies that contain nuts, or consider making a nut-free batch.
* **Dietary Restrictions:** Consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your fellow hikers, such as gluten-free, vegan, or low-sugar options.
* **Leave No Trace:** Always pack out any trash or food scraps from your hike. Be a responsible trail user and help preserve the environment.

Conclusion

Side of the Trail Cookies are a fantastic way to add a touch of homemade goodness to your outdoor adventures. With a little planning and creativity, you can create delicious and energy-packed treats that will fuel your body and lift your spirits on the trail. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or not, for the no-bake options!), and get baking! Your taste buds – and your fellow hikers – will thank you.