If you’re searching for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while fitting into a healthy lifestyle, these best healthy cookies are the answer. They’re gluten-free, vegan, and skip traditional baking ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter. Made primarily from bananas, peanut butter, and oats, these cookies offer a delicious chewy texture that’s perfect for snacking or grabbing on the go.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas or 1 cup applesauce for a natural sweetness
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter or any nut or seed butter for creaminess
• 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats to provide structure and fiber
• 1/4 cup non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, to moisten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins (optional) for added texture
• 1 cup chocolate chips (dark, semi-sweet, or milk) for richness

Preparation

Step 1: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.

Step 2: Add peanut butter, oats, non-dairy milk, vanilla, and cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Stir in optional nuts or raisins and chocolate chips until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Using a cookie scoop, portion the batter onto a lined baking sheet. The cookies won’t spread much, so shape them as you prefer.

Step 4: Refrigerate the shaped cookies on the baking sheet for 30 minutes to help them hold their form during baking.

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookies for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes for easier handling.

Variation

Consider substituting the bananas with applesauce for a different base flavor or mix in different types of nuts and seeds for varied textures.

Cooking Note

Chilling the cookie dough is crucial as it prevents the cookies from spreading too thin while baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are excellent as a quick breakfast, a convenient snack, or a healthy dessert option.

Tips

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to mix evenly.
• For crisper cookies, leave them in the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Prep Time

• 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)

Cooking Time

• 20 minutes

Total Time

• 60 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approx. 100-150 per cookie
• Protein: 3 grams per serving
• Sodium: Minimal, depends on added ingredients

FAQs

1. Can I use something other than peanut butter?
   • Absolutely! Any creamy nut or seed butter will work well in this recipe.
2. How can I make these cookies sugar-free?
   • Skip the chocolate chips or use a sugar-free variety to reduce the sweetness.

Conclusion

These healthy gluten-free and vegan cookies are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile and align with a variety of dietary preferences. This recipe is a great way to indulge responsibly and keep your snack time exciting and nutritious. Enjoy crafting these simple, tasty treats that everyone can feel good about!

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