These No-Bake Paleo Molasses Cookies are a delightful and healthy twist on a classic holiday treat. They offer the warm, comforting flavors of molasses and spices without the need for an oven, making them perfect for any time of year, especially when you’re craving something sweet but want to avoid the heat of baking. These cookies are incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are naturally gluten-free, grain-free, and refined sugar-free, fitting seamlessly into a paleo or other health-conscious lifestyle.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. The no-bake aspect makes them a fantastic option when you’re short on time or don’t want to heat up your kitchen. The combination of nuts, molasses, and spices delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that’s reminiscent of traditional molasses cookies, but with a healthier profile. Plus, the use of coconut sugar and maple syrup provides natural sweetness, avoiding the processed sugars found in conventional cookies. These cookies are also incredibly versatile; you can customize the spices to your liking and easily double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings. They’re a great make-ahead treat, as they keep well in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prepping or having on hand for unexpected guests. Whether you’re following a paleo diet or simply looking for a healthier cookie option, these No-Bake Paleo Molasses Cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw almonds
- 2 cups raw pecans
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar (for rolling)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Nuts
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the raw almonds and raw pecans. The key to achieving the right texture for these cookies lies in the initial processing of the nuts. You want to grind them until they resemble a fine crumb. This usually takes about 2 minutes, but it may vary depending on the power of your food processor. Be patient and stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even processing. The goal is to have the nuts finely ground so they bind together well when the wet ingredients are added.
Step 2: Add Spices and Salt
Once the nuts are finely ground, add the cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt to the food processor bowl. These spices are what give the cookies their signature molasses flavor, so it’s important to measure them accurately. Process for another 10 seconds to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the nut mixture. This step is crucial for creating a uniform flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Now it’s time to add the molasses, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil to the food processor. Molasses provides the deep, rich flavor, while maple syrup adds sweetness and moisture. Melted coconut oil helps bind the ingredients together and gives the cookies a slightly softer texture. Process the mixture for another 1-2 minutes, or until it begins to form a ball. You’ll notice the mixture becoming stickier and starting to clump together. Keep processing until it comes together into a cohesive dough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out approximately 1 ½ – 2 tablespoon-sized portions of the molasses cookie “dough.” This is where you get to shape the cookies into their final form. Roll each portion into a ball and then roll it in coconut sugar. The coconut sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a slightly crunchy texture to the outside of the cookies. After rolling in sugar, pat the ball into a flat, ¾ – inch thick cookie. This gives them a nice, uniform shape. Sprinkle with additional coconut sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Step 5: Refrigerate
Repeat the above step with the remaining molasses cookie “dough.” Once all the cookies are shaped, place them on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Refrigerating the cookies allows them to firm up and helps the flavors meld together. It also makes them easier to handle and prevents them from being too sticky. Be sure to keep the cookies refrigerated between servings to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming too soft.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease: Easy
- Taste: Rich, spiced, and sweet
- Healthiness: Very Healthy
Serving Suggestions:
These No-Bake Paleo Molasses Cookies are delicious on their own as a quick and satisfying snack. They also pair well with a glass of almond milk or a cup of herbal tea. For a more indulgent treat, try serving them with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. They are also a great addition to a holiday cookie platter or as a homemade gift for friends and family.
Tips:
- Nut Butter Variation: For a slightly different flavor and texture, try adding a tablespoon or two of almond butter or cashew butter to the dough.
- Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, add a bit more ginger.
- Coconut Sugar Substitute: If you don’t have coconut sugar, you can use another granulated sweetener like maple sugar or even finely ground dates.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: These cookies can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (No-Bake)
Total Time: 45 minutes (includes refrigeration)
Nutritional Information: (per cookie, approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 20mg
Conclusion:
These No-Bake Paleo Molasses Cookies are a testament to how delicious and healthy eating can coexist. They offer a guilt-free way to indulge in the comforting flavors of molasses and spices, without the need for baking or refined sugars. Their ease of preparation, coupled with their nutritional benefits, makes them a perfect treat for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth in a wholesome way. Whether you’re following a paleo diet, have dietary restrictions, or simply want a healthier cookie option, these cookies are sure to become a go-to recipe.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use different nuts in this recipe? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for almonds and pecans, you can easily substitute other nuts such as walnuts, cashews, or macadamia nuts. Just be sure to use raw, unsalted nuts for the best flavor and texture.
- What if I don’t have coconut sugar? If you don’t have coconut sugar on hand, you can use another granulated sweetener like maple sugar or even finely ground dates. Just be aware that the flavor and texture of the cookies may be slightly different.
- How long do these cookies last? These cookies will last for up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- Can I make these cookies without a food processor? While a food processor is the easiest way to make these cookies, you can also make them using a high-powered blender or by finely chopping the nuts by hand. If you’re using a blender, you may need to add a bit of liquid to help the nuts blend properly.
- Are these cookies suitable for vegans? Yes, these cookies are vegan-friendly as they do not contain any animal products. The recipe uses plant-based ingredients such as nuts, maple syrup, and coconut oil, making them a great option for those following a vegan lifestyle.
