In today's world, there is an increasing demand for healthy and nutritious snacks, and cookies are no exception. Whether you are looking for a post-workout snack or a guilt-free indulgence, healthy cookies can be a great option. In this article, we will introduce you to 5 of the best healthy cookie recipes that are both delicious and nutritious.
We will explore recipes that use wholesome ingredients such as whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fruits. These recipes are not only healthy but also easy to make, making them a great option for busy individuals who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing on flavour.
So, get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these tasty and nutritious cookie recipes that will leave you feeling satisfied and energised.
1. Ragi Cookies
Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a highly nutritious cereal crop that is commonly grown in India and Africa. Ragi flour is a great alternative to wheat flour as it is gluten-free and rich in fibre, protein, and minerals like calcium and iron. One delicious way to incorporate ragi into your diet is by making Ragi Cookies. Here is a simple recipe to make healthy and delicious Ragi Cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ragi flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as required)
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, add ragi flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix well and keep it aside.
- In another mixing bowl, add unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Mix well using a hand whisk or electric mixer until light and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix again.
- Add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until it forms a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add 1-2 tbsp of milk to make it moist.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between each cookie.
- Flatten each ball using a fork or your palm.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
- Store the Ragi Cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
2. Oatmeal and Almond Cookies
Oatmeal and almond cookies are a delicious and healthy treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They are easy to make and are perfect for those who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. The combination of oats and almonds adds a nutty flavour and crunchy texture to the cookies, making them irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of oats
- 1 cup of almond flour
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped almonds.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop the cookie dough onto the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Use a fork to flatten the cookies slightly.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Atta Walnut Cookies
Atta walnut cookies are a delicious and healthy alternative to regular cookies. Made with whole wheat flour, these cookies are packed with fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The addition of walnuts adds a nice crunch and a boost of omega-3 fatty acids to the cookies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Sift the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the mixing bowl. Mix well.
- Add the chopped walnuts to the mixing bowl and mix again.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to the mixing bowl and knead the dough until it comes together.
- Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into cookies.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
4. Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut butter cookies are a classic American treat that are loved by people of all ages. They are easy to make and have a delicious nutty flavour that pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. Here is a simple recipe to make peanut butter cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract and mix until the mixture is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Use a fork to gently press down on the dough balls, making a criss-cross pattern on the top of each cookie.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Quinoa Cookies
Quinoa cookies are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional cookies. Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that is high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to a cookie recipe. Quinoa cookies are a great snack for those who are looking for a healthy and gluten-free option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa, almond flour, rolled oats, and raisins or chocolate chips.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.