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Looking for a delicious and guilt-free treat? Our Healthy Cookies are just what you need! These cookies are free from added sugars and flours, making them a perfect snack for health-conscious individuals. Whether you’re on a diet, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to enjoy a wholesome snack, these cookies will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising on health. Packed with natural ingredients and flavors, these cookies are as nutritious as they are tasty. Let’s dive into the ingredients and see what makes these cookies so special.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: Bananas are naturally sweet and provide moisture, eliminating the need for added sugars and fats.
- 1/3 cup apple sauce: Unsweetened apple sauce adds a touch of natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies.
- 2 cups oats: Oats are a great source of fiber and add a hearty texture to the cookies. They also help to bind the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup almond milk: Almond milk adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps to moisten the oats.
- 1/4 cup raisins or nuts: Choose your favorite add-in for a bit of texture and additional nutrients. Raisins add a sweet chewiness, while nuts add a satisfying crunch.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (Lily’s brand recommended): Dark chocolate is a healthier alternative to milk chocolate, providing rich flavor with less sugar. Lily’s brand is recommended for its high-quality, sugar-free options.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies, adding a warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a hint of spice and warmth, complementing the natural sweetness of the bananas and apple sauce.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and apple sauce. Stir them together until they are well mixed. The bananas should be fully mashed, with no large chunks remaining, to provide a smooth base for the cookies.
Add Flavorings
To the banana and apple sauce mixture, add the vanilla extract and cinnamon. Mix these in thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
Incorporate Oats
Add the oats to the bowl. Stir them into the mixture until they are fully incorporated. The oats will absorb some of the moisture from the bananas and apple sauce, helping to bind the ingredients together.
Mix in Almond Milk and Add-Ins
Pour the almond milk into the mixture to help moisten the oats. Then, add your choice of raisins, nuts, and dark chocolate chunks. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout. This step allows you to customize your cookies to your taste preferences.
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking. This will make it easier to remove the cookies once they are baked and ensure they retain their shape.
Form Cookies
Spoon out portions of the cookie mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can use a spoon or a cookie scoop to make uniform cookies. Flatten the cookies slightly with the back of the spoon or your hand, as they will not spread much during baking. This step is important for ensuring the cookies bake evenly.
Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they are firm and lightly golden. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cookies to prevent overbaking.
Cool Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cookies on a wire rack ensures they cool evenly and maintain their texture.
Serving Tips
- Enjoy these cookies as a guilt-free snack any time of the day. They pair well with a glass of almond milk or a cup of hot tea.
- For a special treat, warm them up slightly in the microwave before serving. This brings out the flavors of the dark chocolate chunks.
- These cookies make a great addition to a healthy breakfast spread. Serve them alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced meal.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure the container is sealed well to keep the cookies soft and fresh.
- Refrigeration: If you want to keep the cookies for a longer period, store them in the refrigerator. They will last up to 2 weeks when refrigerated.
- Freezing: For even longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave before serving.
Helpful Notes and Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add a variety of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans for an extra crunch and boost of healthy fats.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or cherries for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ground ginger for a spicier twist.
- Superfood Boost: Mix in some chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp hearts for added nutrition.
“Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or tasteless. These cookies are a perfect example of how you can enjoy delicious treats without compromising on health.” – Chef Jamie Oliver