Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Or, in this case, who says you can’t enjoy a warm, chewy cookie without sacrificing your health goals? The truth is, many traditional cookie recipes are packed with added sugars, refined flours, and unhealthy fats. But what if we told you that there’s a way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still nourishing your body? Enter: healthy cookies!
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 scrumptious and nutritious cookie recipes that use wholesome ingredients like oats, avocados, quinoa, and chia seeds. From classic flavors like chocolate chip and peanut butter to innovative twists like matcha green tea and black bean brownies, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, grab a glass of milk (or your preferred beverage), and get ready to indulge in some guilt-free cookie goodness! Stay tuned for the recipes…
Oatmeal Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warmth of oatmeal and the richness of dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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 oats, sugars, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, butter, egg, 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 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies
A sweet and nutty twist on traditional cookies, these chewy treats combine the richness of peanut butter with the delicate flavor of almond flour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 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 almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these decadent treats that combine the creaminess of avocados with the richness of dark chocolate. A perfect fusion of flavors, these cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 egg
– 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 flour and sugar. Add mashed avocado, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in dark chocolate chips and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 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: 12-14 minutes
Quinoa Dark Chocolate Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the nutty flavor of quinoa with the richness of dark chocolate, making them a perfect snack for anyone looking to indulge in a healthier treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 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 quinoa, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Flour Blueberry Cookies
Discover the delightful combination of coconut flour and sweet blueberries in these soft-baked cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups coconut flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 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 coconut flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
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, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies combine the natural sweetness of chickpeas with the richness of dark chocolate chips, making for a delicious and healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, sugar, and butter. Blend until smooth.
3. Add egg, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Potato Oat Cookies
Sweet Potato Oat Cookies: A Delicious Twist on Classic Treats!
These soft and chewy cookies are packed with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making them a perfect treat for snack time or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 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 oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Pumpkin Spice Protein Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth while still fueling your active lifestyle with these delicious Pumpkin Spice Protein Cookies!
Ingredients:
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (20g)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 cup mashed pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 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 protein powder, oats, almond butter, coconut sugar, and pumpkin puree until well combined.
3. Add the egg, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Flaxseed Almond Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the goodness of flaxseeds and almonds, making them a perfect snack for health-conscious individuals. With a subtle nutty flavor and a hint of sweetness, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond butter
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 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 almond butter and coconut sugar until smooth.
3. Add honey, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground flaxseed, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Fold in sliced almonds.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a delicious gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1 large egg
– 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, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped apples and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and salt until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zucchini Oatmeal Cookies
These delicious cookies combine the natural sweetness of zucchini with the warmth of oatmeal, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert. With only 8 ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 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, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in grated zucchini, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Experience the unique flavor of Japan with these delicious matcha green tea cookies. With a subtle bitterness and a hint of grassy notes, these cookies are perfect for tea lovers and anyone looking to add some excitement to their snack routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, matcha powder, and confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Black Bean Brownie Cookies
These unique cookies combine the natural sweetness of black beans with the deep flavor of brownies, creating a deliciously complex treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup black bean puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine black bean puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chia Seed Raspberry Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the goodness of chia seeds and the sweetness of fresh raspberries, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, almond butter, honey, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in chia seeds, chopped raspberries, and salt.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. 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 Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warm spices of carrot cake with the comfort of a classic cookie, perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy cookies infused with the zest of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 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 and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Vegan Double Chocolate Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and chewy vegan double chocolate cookies, perfect for a guilt-free treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, replaced by 2 flax eggs*
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet 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, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together vegan butter and sugars until smooth. Add flax eggs and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten-Free Almond Joy Cookies
These chewy cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Almond Joy, with the added benefit of being gluten-free. Made with almond flour and natural sweeteners, they’re perfect for those with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 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 almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and eggs. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
5. Fold in chopped chocolate chips and sliced almonds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the delicious world of healthy cookies! This collection of 18 nutritious recipes offers a variety of tasty treats that are both good for you and your taste buds. From classic combinations like oatmeal banana chocolate chip to innovative uses of ingredients like avocado, quinoa, and black beans, there’s something for every cookie lover. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free, vegan, or simply healthy options, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your diet on track.