Description of this recipe
These Healthy Cookies are a guilt-free delight, made entirely without refined sugars or flour. Using simple, wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas and oats, these cookies are naturally sweetened, offering a deliciously chewy texture and rich flavor that will surprise and satisfy your sweet tooth. The addition of dark chocolate chunks or nuts brings a perfect treat that is not only healthy but also indulgent.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is not just a treat; it’s a way to enjoy cookies without compromising your health. With no added sugars or refined flours, you can enjoy the sweet taste of chocolate and bananas while benefiting from the nutritional goodness of oats and almonds. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a post-workout pick-me-up, or a healthy dessert, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they are easy to make and require minimal preparation, making them a fantastic option for busy individuals and families alike!
Introduction
In a world where healthy eating often feels synonymous with deprivation, these Healthy Cookies come as a refreshing solution. This cookie recipe harnesses the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and combines it with hearty oats, making it a nourishing choice for dessert lovers. By eliminating refined sugars and flours, you’re left with a cookie that not only tastes fantastic but also contributes to a balanced diet. Enjoy these cookies knowing you’re treating yourself to something wholesome—perfectly suited for both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond milk (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans work well)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (I recommend Lily’s brand for a sugar-free option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and applesauce. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 3: Add the rolled oats to the banana mixture. Incorporate the oats thoroughly until they are fully coated and evenly distributed. This mixture will serve as the base for your cookies.
Step 4: Pour in the almond milk, followed by the vanilla extract and cinnamon. Stir until everything is well combined. The almond milk will help bind the ingredients together nicely.
Step 5: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks and optional raisins or nuts into the mixture, distributing them evenly throughout. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until well-mixed.
Step 6: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when you first take them out.
Step 8: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) – These cookies are a fantastic healthy alternative, easy to make and delicious!
Serving Suggestions:
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair them with a glass of almond milk or a cup of herbal tea for a comforting snack. You can also crumble them over a bowl of yogurt for a nutritious breakfast or serve them at a gathering to impress guests with a healthy treat. They make great lunchbox additions for children and adults alike!
Tips:
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter the cookies will be. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even slightly brown for the best flavor.
- Add Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like shredded coconut, chia seeds, or dried cranberries to the mix for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can also substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk of your choice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per cookie, makes about 12 cookies):
- Calories: Approximately 120
- Protein: 2 grams
- Sodium: 25 milligrams
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and method of preparation.)
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, healthy recipe for cookies that satisfies cravings without any guilt. With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies are accessible to anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat without the downside of sugars and refined flours. Whether you’re loading up on nutrients or indulging a sweet tooth, these cookies are an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A1: Yes, quick oats can be used. However, the texture of the cookies may be slightly different; they might be a bit more crumbly.
Q2: What types of chocolate can I use?
A2: You can use any dark chocolate; just be sure to check for sugar content if you want to keep the recipe sugar-free. Milk chocolate can also be used, though it will add sugar to the recipe.
Q3: Can I freeze these cookies?
A3: Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. Just place them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag and they can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
Q4: How can I make these cookies nut-free?
A4: Simply omit the nuts and substitute the almond milk with any other dairy-free milk option like oat milk or coconut milk.
Q5: Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
A5: Yes, if you don’t have bananas, you can experiment with unsweetened pureed apples or pumpkin puree, but this may alter the flavor and sweetness of the cookies slightly.
Now you’re ready to bake some delicious, healthy cookies that are sure to delight everyone! Enjoy your healthy treats without any sugar or flour!
