When you’re craving something sweet but want to avoid sugar and flour, these No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies are your new go-to treat. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, bananas, and almond milk, these cookies are not only tasty but also incredibly healthy. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these delicious cookies at home, step by step.
1. Introduction to No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies
Craving something sweet but trying to stick to a healthier diet? You’re not alone! Finding treats that are both delicious and nutritious can be tricky, especially when you’re avoiding sugar and flour. That’s where No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies come in. These cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with flavor, yet free from refined sugars and flour, making them the perfect guilt-free indulgence.
2. Why Choose No Sugar, No Flour?
Why should you consider making No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies? It’s simple: by cutting out sugar and flour, you’re eliminating two common culprits of unhealthy eating. Sugar spikes your blood sugar levels, leading to energy crashes, while refined flour lacks the nutritional value that whole grains offer. Instead, these cookies are packed with oats, bananas, and other nutrient-rich ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your sweet tooth.
3. The Benefits of Key Ingredients
Each ingredient in these cookies serves a purpose—not just for flavor, but for nutrition as well:
- Bananas: A natural sweetener, bananas also provide potassium, fiber, and vitamins.
- Oats: Full of fiber, oats help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
- Dark Chocolate: Opt for sugar-free or low-sugar dark chocolate for a rich, indulgent taste without the guilt.
- Almond Milk: A dairy-free option that’s low in calories and full of nutrients.
By choosing ingredients like these, you’re ensuring that your snack doesn’t just taste good but also does good for your body.
4. Ingredient Breakdown: What’s Inside These Cookies?
Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need for this recipe:
- 3 mashed bananas (ripe): The riper, the sweeter, which makes them perfect for sugar-free baking.
- 1/3 cup apple sauce: Adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.
- 2 cups oats: Provides texture and heartiness to the cookies.
- 1/4 cup almond milk: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds creaminess.
- 1/4 cup raisins or nuts: For added texture and a touch of natural sweetness or crunch.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (Lily’s brand): Sugar-free, rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
These ingredients come together to create a cookie that’s both tasty and packed with nutrients.
5. Step-by-Step: How to Make No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and let it preheat.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas and stir in the apple sauce until they’re well combined.
Add Flavorings:
Mix in the vanilla extract and cinnamon to distribute the flavors evenly.
Incorporate the Oats:
Gradually add the oats to the mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
Mix in Milk and Add-Ins:
Pour in the almond milk and stir. Then, mix in your choice of raisins or nuts, and the dark chocolate chunks.
Form the Cookies:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten the cookies slightly.
Bake the Cookies:
Bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re firm and golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies cool before transferring them to a wire rack. Then, enjoy your homemade, healthy cookies!
6. Baking Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your cookies turn out perfectly:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the ingredients just until they’re combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Flatten before baking: Since these cookies don’t spread much, flatten them slightly before baking to get the perfect shape.
7. Variations: Customizing Your Cookies
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ways you can customize these No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies:
- Add coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Use dried cranberries instead of raisins for a tangy bite.
- Throw in chia seeds for an extra boost of fiber.
8. How to Store Your Cookies for Freshness
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge where they’ll last for about a week.
9. Can You Freeze These Cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
10. Are These Cookies Really Healthy?
Absolutely! These No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies are made with whole, nutritious ingredients. There’s no refined sugar or flour, meaning they’re lower in empty calories and higher in fiber and essential nutrients.
11. Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few fun serving ideas:
- Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea for a relaxing snack.
- Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Crumble over a smoothie bowl for extra texture.
12. Conclusion: Guilt-Free Snacking at Its Best
In conclusion, these No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies are not only easy to make, but they’re also a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings. With wholesome ingredients, minimal prep, and no refined sugar or flour, they’re perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
13. FAQs on No Sugar! No Flour! Healthy Cookies
1. Can I replace the almond milk with another type of milk?
Yes, you can use any plant-based or dairy milk in this recipe, depending on your preference.
2. Are these cookies gluten-free?
As long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these cookies are completely gluten-free.
3. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! The recipe is already vegan as long as you use a plant-based milk.
4. How many calories are in each cookie?
The calorie count will vary depending on your add-ins, but each cookie is approximately 100-120 calories.
5. Can I skip the chocolate chunks?
Absolutely. You can replace the chocolate with more nuts, dried fruit, or seeds if you prefer.
Enjoy your healthy, delicious cookies!
