Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? In this article, we’re going to indulge in 20 scrumptious low-calorie cookie recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary goals. From classic chocolate chip to creative pumpkin spice and matcha green tea flavors, these tasty treats are perfect for anyone looking to reduce their sugar intake or follow a specific diet.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of healthy baking, exploring innovative ingredient combinations and clever substitutions that keep calories in check without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional seeking a quick snack or a health-conscious individual seeking a guilt-free indulgence, these 20 low-calorie cookie recipes have got you covered.
Stay tuned for a culinary adventure that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized – without the weight of excess sugar!
Oatmeal Banana Low Calorie Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, mashed bananas, and less sugar. Perfect for a guilt-free snack or dessert, these treats will satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking the calorie bank.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, mashed banana, sugar, and egg.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Sweet Treats with a Nutty Twist: Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are a game-changer for those who follow a gluten-free diet or simply love the subtle nutty flavor of almond flour. With the added bonus of dark chocolate chips, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Pumpkin Spice Protein Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are packed with protein-rich ingredients and warm fall spices, making them the perfect snack for a post-workout treat or a cozy afternoon indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine protein powder, oats, almond butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Beat in the egg, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of peanut butter, perfect for a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract. Stir in mashed bananas.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Apple Cinnamon Sugar-Free Cookies
These Apple Cinnamon Sugar-Free Cookies are a delicious twist on traditional cookies, with the added bonus of being sugar-free! Perfect for a guilt-free snack or dessert, these chewy treats are packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar substitute (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other sweet variety)
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar substitute, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in diced apples and cinnamon powder.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Cookies
Brighten up your day with these refreshing Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Cookies, perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, lemon zest, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Dark Chocolate Avocado Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the creaminess of avocado with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, creating a decadent treat that’s surprisingly healthy.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the avocados in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Add the butter, sugars, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Coconut Flour Snickerdoodles
Snickerdoodles are a classic cookie favorite, and when made with coconut flour, they take on a delightful nutty flavor. This recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their gluten intake or simply trying something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups coconut flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon cream of tartar
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut flour, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and cream of tartar. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Then, roll each ball in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
5. Place coated cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together 3 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Experience the delicate flavor of matcha green tea in a sweet and crumbly cookie form. This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of matcha with the warmth of vanilla and sweetness of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon matcha powder (preferably ceremonial or premium grade)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and matcha powder until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chickpea Chocolate Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the creaminess of chickpeas with the richness of dark chocolate, making for a unique and delicious dessert option. With only 8 ingredients, they’re also surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or a potato masher until smooth.
3. Add flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in dark chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Carrot Cake Protein Cookies
These delicious protein cookies are packed with nutritious ingredients like carrots, oats, and Greek yogurt, making them a great snack for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. With only 150 calories per cookie, you can indulge in the guilt-free goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup grated carrots
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder ( approx. 30g)
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or raisins for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, almond flour, applesauce, yogurt, egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in grated carrots and protein powder.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: 12-15 cookies
Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for any occasion. With a hint of almond flavor and a pop of raspberry filling, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1 egg
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Raspberry jam or preserves, for filling
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in ground almonds, then egg.
5. Gradually add flour mixture; mix until just combined.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Use a thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in each cookie.
8. Place a small dollop of raspberry jam in the center of each cookie.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Zucchini Oatmeal Cookies
Moist and flavorful cookies that incorporate the natural sweetness of zucchinis with the nutty taste of oats, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, grated zucchini, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Chia Seed Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3s and fiber, thanks to the addition of chia seeds. With a hint of vanilla and a touch of sweetness, these cookies are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and chia seeds.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Potato Chocolate Cookies
Sweet Potato Chocolate Cookies: A Delicious Twist on Classic Treats
These sweet potato chocolate cookies combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and scrumptious treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
- Stir in dark chocolate chips.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Cranberry Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the crunch of pistachios with the tartness of cranberries, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in cranberries, pistachios, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Black Bean Brownie Cookies
These rich and fudgy cookies combine the unexpected with the familiar – black beans add a boost of fiber and protein to this classic treat. With their intense chocolate flavor and velvety texture, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in cooked black beans and the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
These sweet treats capture the essence of strawberry shortcake in a delicious cookie form, perfect for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in strawberry jam and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Fold in sliced strawberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a twist! These chewy treats combine the richness of peanut butter, the wholesomeness of oatmeal, and the sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Mint Cookies
These rich and refreshing cookies combine the decadence of dark chocolate with the coolness of peppermint, making them a perfect treat for any time of year. With their soft texture and vibrant green color, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Indulge in guilt-free treats with these 20 delicious low-calorie cookie recipes! From classic flavors to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try Oatmeal Banana Low Calorie Cookies, Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies, or Pumpkin Spice Protein Cookies for a sweet and healthy fix. Or, go bold with Dark Chocolate Avocado Cookies, Coconut Flour Snickerdoodles, or Matcha Green Tea Cookies. With creative uses of ingredients like banana, zucchini, and chickpeas, you’ll be surprised at how flavorful and nutritious these cookies can be. Treat yourself without the guilt – try one today!