Healthy Cookies Recipe

These Healthy Cookies are the perfect guilt-free treat! Made without sugar or flour, they’re packed with nutritious ingredients and are easy to whip up for a quick snack. Whether you’re following a gluten-free or low-sugar diet, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth in the healthiest way possible.

The Concept Behind Healthy Cookies

Traditional cookies are often loaded with refined sugar and flour, which can spike blood sugar levels and provide empty calories. This recipe focuses on using natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients, making these cookies both delicious and nutrient-dense. They are ideal for those following a healthier lifestyle or looking to reduce sugar and refined carbs from their diet.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Oats

Oats serve as a nutritious base for these cookies, providing a source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, which help to keep you full and satisfied.

• Pro Tip: Use gluten-free oats if you’re avoiding gluten.

Bananas

Bananas act as a natural sweetener, giving the cookies their moist texture and sweetness without the need for added sugar.

• Substitution Tip: You can replace bananas with applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Nut Butter

Nut butter like peanut butter or almond butter adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the cookies more filling and satisfying.

• Pro Tip: Use unsweetened nut butter to keep the cookies completely sugar-free.

Add-Ins (Optional)

These cookies are versatile and can be customized with healthy add-ins like:

• Dark chocolate chips (sugar-free or 70%+ cocoa)
• Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts
• Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries (without added sugar)

How to Make Healthy Cookies

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. Add the rolled oats, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the dough is thick and sticky.
3. If using any add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them into the dough at this stage.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
2. Flatten the cookies slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers to form rounds.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are firm to the touch.
4. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

These Healthy Cookies are perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even as a post-workout treat. Enjoy them with a cup of herbal tea or almond milk for a wholesome snack. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Variations and Add-Ins

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Add sugar-free chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks to the dough for a chocolatey twist without the added sugar.

Nutty Cookies

For a crunchy texture, mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans.

Coconut Cookies

Stir in a handful of unsweetened shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe is easily adaptable to meet various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegan: These cookies are naturally vegan as they contain no eggs or dairy.
• Sugar-Free: No added sugar is used, relying on bananas as the natural sweetener.

Frequently Asked Questions

Healthy Cookies // No Sugar! No Flour! Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze well. Simply let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats for a softer texture. However, rolled oats provide more chewiness and structure.

What if I don’t have bananas?
If you don’t have bananas, you can substitute with applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes. This will slightly alter the flavor but still provide moisture and sweetness.