If you’re looking for a guilt-free snack that satisfies your sweet tooth while providing a burst of energy, these healthy cookies are perfect. Made without flour, sugar, or gluten, and packed with nutritious seeds, they are an ideal snack for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here’s how to make these simple, delicious energy cookies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of mixed seeds (chia seeds, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
- 1 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup of almond butter or any nut butter of your choice
- 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup (for a natural sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional for flavor)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup of water or as needed to bind the mixture
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix the seeds and shredded coconut together. Add cinnamon and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, stir together the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix Together:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated. Depending on the consistency, add water a tablespoon at a time until the mixture sticks together but is not too wet.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the mixture and shape them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly to form cookies.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Seeds: Rich in fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that provide sustained energy.
- Nut Butter: Adds protein and healthy fats, making these cookies more filling and nutritious.
- Natural Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup offer sweetness without the spike in blood sugar levels associated with refined sugars.
Tips:
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Variations: Feel free to add ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, or even dark chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
These healthy cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious, making them a perfect snack for boosting energy throughout the day. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert!
