Crazy for Cookies
Are you a fan of sweet treats but trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle? Fear not, because there are healthy substitutes that you can use for traditional cookie ingredients.
Cookies can still be a part of your diet, especially if you make some smart changes. In this blog, we will share some tips for healthy cookie ingredient swaps and provide you with a heart-healthy cookie recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your health in check.
Swap Out Refined Sugar with Natural Sweeteners:
When a recipe calls for granulated sugar, try using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead. They are unrefined and have a lower glycemic index compared to white granulated sugar. They also add more flavor and nutrients. You may also use a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sugar for a negligible calorie impact.
Replace Butter with Healthier Fats:
Butter is a high-fat ingredient that can contribute to heart disease. Try swapping it with heart-healthy fats like avocado oil, applesauce, or coconut oil. These alternatives can add moisture, flavor, and texture to your baked treats without adding harmful trans fats.
Use Whole Grains:
Instead of refined white flour, choose whole grains like whole wheat flour or almond flour. Not only do they have more fiber and nutrients, but they also create a heartier texture that can make your cookies more satisfying to eat. You may also try adding rolled oats or chia seeds for an extra fiber boost.
Add More Nutrients with Superfoods:
Cookies do not have to be empty calories. You can add health-boosting ingredients like dark chocolate, nuts, dried berries, or seeds to your batter for some extra antioxidants and heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Just a small amount of these superfoods can make a big difference in your cookie’s nutritional value.
Try Our Heart-Healthy Oatmeal Cookies Recipe:
Now that you know the healthy swaps, here is a recipe for heart-healthy oatmeal cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and sea salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, coconut oil, and applesauce until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until everything is well combined and forms a dough.
- If desired, add in the dark chocolate chips and pecans.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form the dough into balls, then flatten them slightly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
So feel free to indulge and enjoy some delicious cookies without sabotaging your health goals. With these healthy swaps and recipe, you can still satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your heart healthy and happy. So go ahead, bake a batch of wholesome cookies, and savor every bite!
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