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How to Make Healthy Cookies Without Flour and Sugar
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies, so make sure they are well-mashed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- To the mashed bananas, add the nut butter, applesauce, honey or maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
- In the same bowl, add the rolled oats, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Mix everything together until the oats are evenly coated with the wet ingredients.
- If you’re adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts, fold them into the dough.
Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers, as these cookies won’t spread much while baking.
- Leave a bit of space between each cookie to allow for slight expansion as they cook.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your cookies, so check them around the 10-minute mark.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Healthy Cookies
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister the cookies will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they naturally add sweetness without the need for refined sugar.
- Customize the Sweetness: Depending on how sweet you like your cookies, you can adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup you add. If your bananas are very ripe, you might not need any added sweetener.
- Add-ins Galore: Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins. You can add a handful of dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, seeds (like chia or flax), dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you prefer thicker cookies, you can chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape better as they bake.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Why These Cookies Are a Healthier Option
- No Refined Sugar: These cookies are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and, optionally, a small amount of honey or maple syrup. This makes them a much healthier alternative to traditional cookies that rely on refined sugars.
- High in Fiber: The oats and fruits in these cookies provide a good amount of fiber, which is great for digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
- Healthy Fats: The nut butter adds heart-healthy fats, which are good for your body and provide sustained energy.
- Gluten-Free: If you use gluten-free oats, these cookies are safe for those with gluten sensitivities, making them a great option for everyone to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: These healthy cookies are perfect for a quick, satisfying snack that won’t leave you feeling guilty. Enjoy them with a cup of tea, coffee, or a smoothie.
- For Breakfast: These cookies are packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a great option for a grab-and-go breakfast. Pair them with some Greek yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced morning meal.
- For Dessert: Serve them as a guilt-free dessert after dinner. They’re sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without overloading on sugar.
Conclusion
These Healthy Cookies Without Flour and Sugar are the perfect solution when you’re craving something sweet but want to stick to a healthier lifestyle. With minimal ingredients, easy prep, and endless customization options, you can make a batch of these cookies in no time.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a treat, give this recipe a try. You’ll love how delicious and nutritious these cookies are—and so will everyone else who gets to enjoy them!
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