In the world of baking, finding recipes that align with both health and taste can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter the realm of these flourless and sugar-free energy cookies—an exceptional treat that proves you don’t need traditional ingredients to make a delicious, guilt-free snack.
Perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a wholesome dessert, these cookies are packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re an athlete in need of a pre-workout boost or just someone who enjoys a sweet treat without the sugar crash, these cookies offer a satisfying solution.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or dried fruit
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Banana Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with almond butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well integrated. The bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also act as a binding agent in place of flour.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the banana and almond butter mixture, add the rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, and baking soda. Stir until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. The cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor without the need for sugar, while the oats contribute to the cookies’ texture and nutritional value.
- Incorporate Sweeteners and Flavorings: Mix in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you’re using any optional add-ins like dark chocolate chips or dried fruit, fold them in at this stage. These additions can enhance the flavor and provide extra texture, making your cookies even more enjoyable.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon to ensure even baking. These cookies won’t spread much, so shape them as you’d like them to look when they come out of the oven.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. The cookies are done when they are firm to the touch and slightly golden around the edges. Be careful not to overbake them, as they can become dry.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps the cookies set and makes them easier to handle.
Nutritional Benefits:
These energy cookies are more than just a tasty treat—they offer several health benefits:
- Bananas: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, bananas help regulate digestion and provide a quick energy boost.
- Almond Butter: A great source of protein and healthy fats, almond butter aids in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Rolled Oats: High in soluble fiber, oats contribute to heart health and stable blood sugar levels.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Packed with antioxidants, cocoa powder enhances mood and cognitive function.
Conclusion:
These flourless and sugar-free energy cookies are a testament to the fact that you don’t need refined ingredients to create a delectable and nourishing treat. Their simplicity is matched by their versatility—feel free to experiment with different nut butters, sweeteners, or add-ins to tailor the cookies to your taste preferences.
Whether you’re enjoying them as a post-workout snack, a quick breakfast, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies promise to deliver both flavor and nutrition in every bite. So, next time you’re in the mood for a healthy dessert, reach for these energy cookies and savor the goodness of a treat that’s as kind to your body as it is to your taste buds.
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill
