Healthy chocolate chip cookies offer a nutritious alternative to traditional treats. This recipe incorporates whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and coconut sugar, enhancing both fiber and healthy fats. Unsweetened applesauce adds moisture without excess sugar, while dark chocolate chips contribute antioxidants. With options available for vegan and gluten-free diets, this recipe caters to various dietary needs. Understanding the preparation and variations can lead to a satisfying experience that balances taste and nutrition. What comes next might surprise you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When individuals seek a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate chip cookies, this recipe stands out for several reasons.
It incorporates whole wheat flour, which adds fiber and essential nutrients, promoting digestive health. The use of coconut oil provides medium-chain triglycerides that may enhance energy levels.
Dark chocolate chips contribute antioxidants and potential heart health benefits, while coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar.
Additionally, unsweetened applesauce adds moisture and a hint of sweetness without excessive sugars.
These ingredients collectively create a delicious cookie that satisfies cravings while supporting a healthier lifestyle, making it a delightful choice for many.
History
The history of chocolate chip cookies dates back to the early 1930s in the United States.
Ruth Wakefield, a dietitian and owner of the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts, is credited with creating the first chocolate chip cookie. She added chopped chocolate to her butter cookie recipe, expecting it to melt and blend in. Instead, the chocolate pieces held their shape, creating a delightful texture.
The cookie gained popularity, leading to the publication of Wakefield’s recipe in a Boston newspaper in 1938. This innovation sparked a nationwide love for chocolate chip cookies, which remain a beloved treat today.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1 egg (or flax egg)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup nuts (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil and coconut sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg (or flax egg), vanilla extract, and applesauce to the bowl, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips and nuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the best results, make sure to chill the dough adequately to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
You can also experiment with adding different mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds to enhance the nutritional value.
Final Thoughts
Creating healthy chocolate chip cookies offers a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat while incorporating nutritious ingredients. This recipe demonstrates how simple substitutions can enhance the health benefits of cookies without sacrificing taste.
With options for vegan and gluten-free variations, anyone can adapt the recipe to meet dietary needs. The use of whole wheat flour, dark chocolate, and coconut sugar provides essential nutrients while keeping the cookies enjoyable.
FAQ
What questions might arise when baking healthy chocolate chip cookies?
One common inquiry involves ingredient substitutions, such as using a flax egg instead of a regular egg for a vegan option.
Another concern is the type of flour; whole wheat flour can be swapped for gluten-free alternatives like almond or oat flour.
Many may wonder about storage options, including how long cookies last at room temperature or in the fridge.
Additionally, individuals often ask about enhancing flavor, such as adding sea salt on top before baking.
Lastly, questions about the nutritional benefits of specific ingredients are frequently posed.
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1 egg or flax egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup nuts optional
Instructions
- Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil and coconut sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg (or flax egg), vanilla extract, and applesauce to the bowl, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips and nuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the best results, make sure to chill the dough adequately to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- You can also experiment with adding different mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds to enhance the nutritional value.