Healthy No-Sugar, No-Flour Cookies

Introduction:

If you’re craving a sweet treat but want to keep it healthy, these No-Sugar, No-Flour Cookies are the perfect solution! Made with natural, wholesome ingredients, these cookies are a great option for those looking to avoid refined sugar and flour while still enjoying a delicious dessert. The recipe uses ripe bananas and applesauce for sweetness, oats for fiber, and dark chocolate chunks for a rich, indulgent flavor. This combination of ingredients not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a range of nutritional benefits. Whether you’re baking for yourself or a group, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better for sweetness)
1/3 cup apple sauce (unsweetened)
2 cups oats (old-fashioned rolled oats work best)
1/4 cup almond milk (or any other non-dairy milk)
1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional, for texture)
1 cup dark chocolate chunks (I recommend Lily’s chocolate for a sugar-free option)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Method:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add the apple sauce, almond milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats and make sure they are fully coated in the banana mixture. If you’re using raisins or nuts, add them in now as well.
Add the Chocolate: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks. These will add a rich, decadent flavor to the cookies.
Form the Cookies: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the cookie dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon, as they won’t spread much during baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies have firmed up.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy as a healthy snack or dessert!

History:

The origins of cookies date back centuries, with early versions appearing in Persia around the 7th century, where sugar was first used in cooking. In the United States, the modern cookie evolved in the 18th century, gaining popularity in the 1930s. However, with the rise of health-conscious eating in recent decades, many bakers have sought ways to make traditional cookies healthier. This particular recipe is a part of the growing trend of sugar-free, flourless, and vegan-friendly baking options that focus on natural ingredients. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!

Conclusion:

These No-Sugar, No-Flour Cookies are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also bring together simple, wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your sweet cravings. By substituting refined sugars and flour with ripe bananas, applesauce, and oats, this recipe proves that you don’t need processed ingredients to create a delicious dessert. They’re the perfect snack to enjoy at any time of day—whether you’re on the go, looking for a post-workout snack, or just craving something sweet without the guilt.

Lovers of Healthy Cookies:

This recipe is perfect for health-conscious individuals, people following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diet, or anyone who simply loves a good cookie without the added sugar and flour. The use of bananas provides natural sweetness, while the dark chocolate satisfies your chocolate cravings in a healthier way. Those who are new to baking or trying to avoid refined sugars will appreciate how simple and straightforward this recipe is.

Methods with Lovers:

Lovers of natural sweetness: The ripe bananas and apple sauce ensure that you don’t miss out on that sweet flavor without using processed sugars.
Lovers of texture: The oats, nuts, and raisins (if added) create a hearty, satisfying texture, making each bite a delightful experience.
Lovers of dark chocolate: The Lily’s dark chocolate adds richness to the cookies without any added sugars, making it a perfect companion for those who enjoy a high-quality chocolate flavor.

Bonus Tips for Lovers of Experimenting:

Add-ins: Try swapping the raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even coconut flakes for a different twist. You can also play with spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for an extra layer of flavor.
For a chewy texture: Reduce the baking time slightly to keep the cookies softer and chewier.

So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, these cookies will become your go-to healthy snack or dessert. Enjoy! 🍪