In a world where healthy eating often seems at odds with enjoying delicious treats, these Healthy Cookies come as a delightful exception. Made without refined sugar or flour, they offer a guilt-free indulgence packed with wholesome ingredients and natural sweetness. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or simply looking to incorporate more nutritious snacks into your day, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings while supporting your health goals. Join us as we delve into the ingredients, preparation steps, nutritional benefits, and variations of these delectable treats.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional, for added texture and flavor)
- 1 cup good quality dark chocolate chunks (Lily’s brand recommended for no added sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, unsweetened applesauce, almond milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Stir until well combined, ensuring the bananas are thoroughly mashed and incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Add the oats to the bowl of wet ingredients. Mix until all oats are evenly coated and distributed throughout the mixture. The oats will absorb some of the moisture, creating a thick and sticky dough-like consistency.
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- Fold in the dark chocolate chunks and raisins or chopped nuts if using. These additional ingredients not only add sweetness and texture but also enhance the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
- Shape and Bake:
- Using a spoon or your hands, drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 1 inch apart, as these cookies will not spread much during baking. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers to achieve your desired thickness.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and desired level of crispness.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the cookies set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Healthy Cookies – No Sugar, No Flour!
Cook’s Tips
- Choosing Bananas: Opt for ripe bananas with brown spots, as they provide natural sweetness and blend easily into the dough.
- Customize Flavors: Experiment with different mix-ins such as shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots to add variety to your cookies.
Nutritional Benefits
These Healthy Cookies are more than just a tasty treat; they also offer several nutritional benefits:
- Oats: High in fiber, oats contribute to improved digestion and prolonged satiety.
- Bananas: Packed with potassium and vitamins, bananas provide natural sweetness without added sugars.
- Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate offers heart-healthy benefits when consumed in moderation.
By omitting refined sugar and flour, these cookies are suitable for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegan lifestyles. They provide a satisfying snack option that aligns with health-conscious choices while still indulging your sweet tooth.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to accommodate gluten sensitivities or allergies.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use dairy-free dark chocolate chunks and almond milk to create vegan-friendly cookies that are rich in plant-based ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these Healthy Cookies – No Sugar, No Flour as a versatile snack or dessert option:
- On the Go: Pack them for a convenient snack during busy days or outdoor activities.
- With Tea or Coffee: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a comforting and satisfying treat.
- As Dessert: Serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a delightful dessert option.
In conclusion, these Healthy Cookies – No Sugar, No Flour are a testament to the creativity and versatility of wholesome ingredients in baking. Whether you’re baking them for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, these cookies offer a guilt-free way to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising your health goals. Embrace the simplicity and goodness of homemade baking with this recipe, and savor each bite knowing you’ve chosen ingredients that nourish both body and soul.
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of these Healthy Cookies – No Sugar, No Flour, and discover a new favorite treat that aligns with your healthy lifestyle.
