Who says cookies are only for dessert? Start your day with a delightful treat that feels indulgent but can be made with healthier ingredients. These breakfast chocolate chip cookies are packed with nutrients and energy to keep you going all morning.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted (or any neutral oil)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
Mix-ins:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or semi-sweet)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, optional)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients: melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and applesauce. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins
- Fold in the chocolate chips, nuts, and dried fruit (if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Form Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers, as these cookies won’t spread much during baking.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look slightly undercooked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Substitute Ingredients: You can swap out the coconut oil for butter or another neutral oil, and use agave syrup or molasses instead of honey or maple syrup.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies with different mix-ins like shredded coconut, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These cookies are a great breakfast option for kids. They are sweet enough to feel like a treat but made with wholesome ingredients.
How can I make these cookies more filling?
You can add more protein by including a scoop of protein powder in the dough or adding extra nuts and seeds.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that this will affect the sweetness and texture of the cookies.
These breakfast chocolate chip cookies are a delightful way to start your day. They are easy to make, customizable, and packed with ingredients that provide sustained energy. Perfect for busy mornings or as a snack, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a cookie (or two) with your morning coffee or tea, and start your day on a sweet note!
