Are you a cookie lover who’s also keen on living a healthier lifestyle? You’re in luck! We’ve got a treasure trove of scrumptious and nutritious cookie recipes that ditch the butter for healthier alternatives. From classic flavors like oatmeal raisin and peanut butter to decadent treats like avocado chocolate chip and pumpkin seed, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of healthy cookies, showcasing innovative ingredients and clever substitutions that will make you rethink the way you bake. Whether you’re a vegan, gluten-free enthusiast or simply looking for a treat that’s a little more guilt-free, these recipes are sure to impress.
Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are a classic favorite, now vegan-friendly! Made with rolled oats, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg replacement (such as Ener-G Egg Replacer or flax eggs*)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup raisins
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add softened vegan butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in egg replacement, vanilla extract, and raisins.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
These rich and chewy cookies are a peanut butter lover’s dream come true, with no flour in sight! The natural sweetness of the peanut butter is balanced by a hint of salt, making for a delightfully savory snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Flatten slightly with a fork or your fingers.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado Chocolate Chip Cookies
Rich and chewy cookies infused with the creaminess of avocados and the sweetness of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add mashed avocado and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Coconut Oil Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies use coconut oil instead of butter for a unique flavor and texture. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving, these cookies are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted coconut oil, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together coconut oil and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Walnut Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of walnuts, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in mashed bananas and eggs. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
This recipe transforms traditional shortbread cookies into a nutty and crumbly delight using almond flour instead of wheat flour. Perfect for those with gluten intolerance or simply looking to mix things up, these buttery treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in granulated sugar.
5. Press dough into a disk shape and roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Applesauce Spice Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the sweetness of applesauce with the warmth of spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup applesauce
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in applesauce and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Seed Chocolate Cookies
Warm up with these sweet and nutty cookies that combine the flavors of pumpkin, chocolate, and toasted pumpkin seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture).
5. Fold in chocolate chips and toasted pumpkin seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chickpea Chocolate Cookies
Transform traditional chocolate cookies with the added nutrition and unique flavor of chickpeas. These indulgent treats are perfect for a sweet treat or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup mashed chickpeas
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, cocoa powder, sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed chickpeas, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll into balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Syrup Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavor of pure Canadian maple syrup, giving them a unique twist on the classic snickerdoodle.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Cinnamon-sugar topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Olive Oil Lemon Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these bright and citrusy treats, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, and olive oil until creamy.
3. Beat in eggs and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Sweet Potato Chocolate Cookies
Moist and chewy sweet potato cookies infused with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add mashed sweet potato and stir until combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cashew Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect treat for nut lovers and those seeking a dairy-free alternative. With the rich flavor of cashew butter, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and cashew butter until smooth. Add sugars and mix until combined.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Date and Nut Energy Cookies
A sweet and satisfying treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of nuts, these energy cookies are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, blend dates, oats, almonds, and honey until well combined.
3. Add brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until smooth dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tahini Cinnamon Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of tahini with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, tahini, sugars, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quinoa Chocolate Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the nutritional benefits of quinoa with the richness of dark chocolate, making them a perfect treat for those looking for a healthier indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Sunflower Seed Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the added bonus of sunflower seed butter providing a creamy and nutritious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sunflower seed butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and oats.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sunflower seed butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar, beating until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Oat Cookies
Transform your daily snack game with these moist and flavorful Zucchini Oat Cookies! Made with wholesome ingredients, these treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy alternative to traditional cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh zucchini
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, and sugar.
3. Add softened butter, chopped zucchini, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 20 cookies
Summary
Indulge in the sweet taste of healthy cookies with these 18 delicious butter-free recipes! From classic flavors like oatmeal raisin and peanut butter to creative twists featuring avocado, coconut oil, and more, there’s something for every cookie lover. Try baking vegan-friendly options like Chickpea Chocolate Cookies or Sweet Potato Chocolate Cookies, or opt for nutty treats like Cashew Butter Cookies or Sunflower Seed Butter Cookies. With a range of flavors and textures, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you on track with your health goals.
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