Deliciously Healthy Cookies: No Sugar, No Flour
Craving a sweet treat without the guilt? Look no further than these Healthy Cookies, packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. Made without sugar or flour, these cookies are perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious snack or dessert option. With mashed bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are not only delicious but also satisfying. Let’s explore this simple and nutritious recipe together!
Ingredients:
- 3 Mashed Bananas (ripe)
- 1/3 cup Applesauce
- 2 cups oats
- 1/4 cup Almond Milk
- 1/2 cup Raisins or dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, almond milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the oats to the banana mixture, stirring until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Fold in the raisins or dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each cookie with the back of the spoon or your fingers, as these cookies will not spread much during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added sweetness, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough if desired, though it may alter the nutritional profile slightly.
- Customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for additional texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the oats in a food processor or blender until they reach your desired consistency before adding them to the dough.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make these cookies keto-friendly or low-carb, you can substitute the mashed bananas with mashed avocado or pumpkin puree for a similar texture without the natural sugars.
- Replace the oats with almond flour or coconut flour for a grain-free option that’s lower in carbs.
- Use sugar-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts instead of raisins for added crunch and flavor without the extra carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats? A: While rolled oats are preferred for their softer texture, you can use steel-cut oats if you prefer a chewier cookie. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I omit the raisins or chocolate chips? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. You can omit the raisins or chocolate chips entirely or substitute them with your favorite mix-ins such as dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or seeds.
Q: How do I store leftover cookies? A: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a softer cookie, place a slice of bread in the container to help retain moisture.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use? A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply portion the dough into individual cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen cookie dough balls to a resealable freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough balls in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
In conclusion, these Healthy Cookies are a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without derailing your healthy eating goals. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up a batch of these wholesome treats in no time. Whether you enjoy them as a post-workout snack, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a sweet ending to your day, these cookies are sure to please. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade, no-sugar, no-flour cookies!