Are you tired of sacrificing taste for nutrition when it comes to baked goods? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring a collection of 20 mouth-watering, yet surprisingly healthy, baking recipes perfect for any occasion. From sweet treats like whole wheat banana bread and almond flour chocolate chip cookies, to savory delights such as quinoa dark brownies and black bean fudge brownies, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy snack options or an athlete seeking post-workout fuel, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while also providing the nutrients your body needs. So go ahead, indulge in these delicious and nutritious treats, knowing that you can feel good about what you’re putting into your body.
Whole Wheat Banana Bread
Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, this whole wheat banana bread recipe is a healthy twist on the classic treat. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Muffins
Moist and decadent, these Avocado Chocolate Muffins combine the best of both worlds – creamy avocado and rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed avocado, cocoa powder, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oatmeal Apple Cookies
Get ready to sink your teeth into these soft, chewy, and utterly delicious oatmeal apple cookies! Made with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, these treats are perfect for snacking on while watching a movie or as a quick pick-me-up throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 2-3 apples)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in diced apples and salt.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Yogurt Blueberry Scones
These tender and flavorful scones are perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat. The Greek yogurt adds moisture and tanginess, while the fresh blueberries provide natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 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, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each scone.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow scones to cool on a wire rack before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Looking for a gluten-free treat that’s just as delicious as traditional cookies? These almond flour chocolate chip cookies are the perfect solution, with their tender texture and deep flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 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 large bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
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
Pumpkin Spice Protein Bars
These protein bars are perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout treat, with the added bonus of warm pumpkin spice flavors. The combination of rolled oats, nuts, and seeds provides a satisfying crunch, while the pumpkin puree and spices add natural sweetness and depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup protein powder (your choice of flavor)
– 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter work well)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon flaxseeds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, nut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Add pumpkin puree, chia seeds, flaxseeds, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chia Seed Energy Bites
Chia Seed Energy Bites are a nutritious and delicious snack that combines the power of chia seeds, oats, and honey to give you a natural energy boost. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (or nut butter of your choice)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the oats and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Yield: About 12-15 energy bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout recovery. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Quinoa Dark Brownies
These quinoa-infused dark brownies are a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier indulgence option. With the nutty flavor of quinoa adding depth to the classic combination of dark chocolate and walnuts, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted chocolate, eggs, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Carrot Cake
Moist and flavorful, this zucchini carrot cake is a unique twist on the classic dessert. Perfect for a springtime gathering or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, zucchini, carrots, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 2 cakes
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are a game-changer for peanut butter lovers, with no flour in sight! Made with just 6 ingredients, these treats are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 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 large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
3. Gradually add sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Flatten slightly with a fork or your fingers.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional cinnamon rolls by incorporating sweet potatoes into the dough. These moist and flavorful treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let mixture sit for 5 minutes, or until yeast is activated.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth.
5. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Spread brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over dough.
6. Roll up dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Brighten up your day with these refreshing gluten-free lemon poppy seed muffins, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of tangy lemon zest and sweet poppy seeds will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in poppy seeds.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Black Bean Fudge Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with this unique recipe that combines the richness of black beans with the deep flavor of dark chocolate. The result is a fudgy, intense treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine black beans, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Add melted chocolate, cocoa powder, and flour mixture to the bean mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious breakfast that’s gluten-free and packed with coconut goodness! These fluffy pancakes are made with coconut flour, eggs, and sweetened with honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– Melted butter or coconut oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together coconut flour, eggs, honey, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
2. Add coconut milk and mix until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Spinach and Feta Egg Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast treat that combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and eggs. These Spinach and Feta Egg Muffins are perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 muffin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add chopped spinach, feta cheese, and onion to the egg mixture. Mix well.
4. Divide the egg mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Drizzle olive oil over each muffin cup.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Chia Jam Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet treats combine the flavors of ripe raspberries and nutty chia seeds with a hint of citrus, all wrapped up in a crunchy cookie package. Perfect for snacking or as a special treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup raspberry chia jam (see note)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in raspberry chia jam and vanilla extract.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie scoop.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Note: To make raspberry chia jam, combine 1 cup raspberries, 1 tbsp chia seeds, and 1 tsp honey in a blender. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate until chilled before using.
Spiced Chickpea Blondies
Discover a sweet and savory twist on classic blondies with the addition of spiced chickpeas! These moist and chewy treats are perfect for snacking or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter, honey, eggs, chickpeas, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Pumpkin Bread
Get cozy with this moist and flavorful vegan pumpkin bread recipe, perfect for a seasonal treat or as a gift to friends and family. This easy-to-make loaf is packed with the warm spices and comforting sweetness of pumpkin puree.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add pumpkin puree, non-dairy milk, and canola oil. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Date-Sweetened Oat Bars
These date-sweetened oat bars are a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional sweet treats. With the natural sweetness of dates and the wholesome goodness of oats, these bars are perfect for snacking on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, dates, coconut sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add melted butter and vanilla extract; stir until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Butter Stuffed Figs
Transform ordinary figs into a sweet and savory delight with this easy recipe. Rich almond butter and crunchy chopped almonds add depth to the natural sweetness of the figs.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh or dried figs, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut a small slit in the top of each fig, being careful not to cut through to the stem.
3. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter and honey until smooth.
4. Stuff each fig with about 1/2 teaspoon of the almond butter mixture.
5. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the filling, dividing them evenly among the figs.
6. Place stuffed figs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the figs are tender and the almond butter is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and healthy baking recipes perfect for every occasion. From sweet treats like Whole Wheat Banana Bread and Avocado Chocolate Muffins, to savory delights like Oatmeal Apple Cookies and Zucchini Carrot Cake, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with ingredients like quinoa, chia seeds, and Greek yogurt, you’ll be getting a nutritious boost in every bite. Whether you’re looking for something special for a birthday or just a quick snack, these healthy baking recipes have got you covered!