Cookies are often thought of as indulgent treats, loaded with sugar, butter and refined flour. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a traditional cookie from time to time, many bakers look for ways to give this classic dessert a healthy twist. With just a few ingredient swaps, cookies can get a nutrition boost with fiber, protein and even healthy fats – all while satisfying a sweet tooth.
This article is from A Healthier Michigan, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
Ingredient Swaps
Refined white flour can be swapped more fiber-rich ones like oat, almond or whole wheat flour. Utilizing nut butters seeds in place for some butter incorporate heart-healthy fats. Even ingredients like dark chocolate can add more antioxidants and fiber to the mix.
Allergies and Dietary Considerations
Food allergies and intolerances are top of mind for many families. Common allergens like wheat, dairy, eggs, soy and nuts are frequently found in traditional cookie recipes, but the good news is that there are many substitutions available. Almond or coconut flour can replace wheat flour for gluten-free baking, while flax “eggs” or applesauce can replace traditional eggs in vegan-friendly recipes. For those avoiding dairy, coconut oil or plant-based butters work in many recipes. Nut-free options like sunflower seed butter make it easier for those with peanut or tree nut allergies to still enjoy a chewy, wholesome cookie.
Chickpeas are more than a salad topper and hummus ingredient. In this recipe, a can of chickpeas serves as the star of the show in chocolate chip cookie batter. Paired with cashew butter, this batter cuts down on the loads of saturated fat found in most cookie recipes, while packing in fiber and protein to keep you satisfied for longer. The dark chocolate and cherries add even more fiber and an antioxidant punch.
These three-ingredient cookies’ natural sweetness comes from fiber-rich dates. Dates are placed in a blender with coconut flakes to create the base, which is then formed into cookies, frozen, dipped and drizzled with melted dark chocolate. These are a more wholesome, nutrient-dense alternative to the door-to-door sold cookies.
Shortbread cookies are a favorite for many because of their crisp nature. Using almond flour in the recipe adds a unique nuttiness. Simply dip the cookies in melted allergen-free chocolate morsels and top with crushed candy canes.
Peanut butter is a pantry staple for many families. While this nut spread may be best known for the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, it is also an excellent baking ingredient thanks to its healthy fats. Here’s a heart-healthy version that makes a delicious holiday cookie: peanut butter oat bran cookies sweetened with maple syrup instead of processed sugar.
The chocolate chip cookie is a classic for a reason. In this recipe, cardamom sweet, peppery and aromatic flavor is added to bring a unique flavor. The cookies are topped with sea salt to create a balance in flavor.
