Description: These healthy cookies are a guilt-free treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without any refined sugar or flour. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time. These cookies are packed with natural sweetness from bananas and applesauce, providing a soft and chewy texture. The addition of oats makes them hearty and filling, while dark chocolate chunks offer a burst of rich flavor. These cookies are a great option for breakfast, a snack, or even a healthy dessert.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup good quality dark chocolate chunks (Lily’s brand recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they are smooth. Ensure there are no large lumps for a consistent cookie texture.
Step 3: Add the unsweetened applesauce, unsweetened almond milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture forms the base of your cookie dough.
Step 4: Gradually add the rolled oats to the wet ingredients. Mix until the oats are evenly coated with the banana mixture. Ensure the oats are well distributed for a consistent texture in each cookie.
Step 5: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks and raisins or chopped nuts (if using). Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie. This prevents them from sticking together while baking.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are set. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 8: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up and prevents them from breaking.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These healthy cookies are a delicious and nutritious way to satisfy your sweet cravings without any guilt. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The cookies are packed with natural sweetness from bananas and applesauce, providing a soft and chewy texture. The addition of oats makes them hearty and filling, while dark chocolate chunks offer a burst of rich flavor. These cookies are a great option for breakfast, a snack, or even a healthy dessert. They are perfect for those looking for a healthy alternative to traditional cookies.
Cooking Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy them as a quick and healthy breakfast with a glass of milk or almond milk.
- Pack them as a nutritious snack for school or work.
- Serve them as a guilt-free dessert after a meal.
- Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Crumble them over yogurt or smoothie bowls for added flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon to your preference.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts.
- Add other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped dates, for added flavor and texture.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free dark chocolate chunks.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per cookie, approximate)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 10mg
Conclusion:
These healthy cookies are a delicious and guilt-free treat that you can enjoy anytime. They are easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any refined sugar or flour. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, a nutritious snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the endless possibilities.
Questions and Answers:
- Q: Can I use a different type of flour in this recipe? A: This recipe is specifically designed to be flourless, relying on oats for its structure. Substituting flour would change the texture and nutritional profile of the cookies. If you’re looking for a cookie recipe with flour, there are many other great options available.
- Q: Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of bananas and applesauce for sweetness? A: While you could use honey or maple syrup, the recipe relies on the natural sweetness of bananas and applesauce. These ingredients also contribute to the soft and chewy texture of the cookies. If you choose to use honey or maple syrup, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Q: Can I add protein powder to these cookies? A: Yes, you can add protein powder to these cookies for an extra boost of protein. However, be sure to adjust the amount of dry ingredients accordingly, as protein powder can absorb moisture and make the cookies dry. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too thin while baking? A: To prevent the cookies from spreading too thin, make sure your oven is properly preheated. Also, avoid using overripe bananas, as they contain more moisture. Chilling the cookie dough for a few minutes before baking can also help prevent spreading.
- Q: Can I freeze these cookies? A: Yes, these cookies freeze well. To freeze, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a few hours until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
