Best Almost Healthy And Surprisingly Good Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipes

Chocolate chip cookies are a popular snack that many people love. However, traditional recipes for this treat often include high amounts of sugar and refined carbohydrates, making them unhealthy for frequent consumption. Fortunately, there are almost healthy and surprisingly good chocolate chip cookie recipes that offer a healthier spin on this classic treat.

What Makes a Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Healthy?

A healthy chocolate chip cookie recipe should include alternative ingredients that deliver the same texture and flavor as traditional ingredients, while also promoting better nutrition. Some of these ingredients include:

Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative to white flour because it contains more fiber and nutrients. This ingredient can make your chocolate chip cookie recipe more filling and nutritious.

Almond Flour

Almond flour is a popular ingredient in gluten-free baking. It is low in carbs, high in protein, and contains healthy fats. Adding almond flour to your chocolate chip cookie recipe will make it more nutrient-dense.

Coconut Sugar

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that is lower in fructose than traditional sugar. It is also rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Using coconut sugar instead of white sugar will give your chocolate chip cookies a more complex flavor.

Dark Chocolate Chips

Dark chocolate is lower in sugar and higher in cocoa solids than milk chocolate. These properties make it a healthier choice for those who want to enjoy chocolate chip cookies without consuming too much sugar.

Almost Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes

Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and coconut sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
6. Stir in the dark chocolate chips.
7. Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and coconut sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
6. Stir in the dark chocolate chips.
7. Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Conclusion

Chocolate chip cookies can still be enjoyed without sacrificing your health. With some simple substitutions, you can make almost healthy and surprisingly good chocolate chip cookies that will satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your healthy eating goals. Try the recipes above or experiment with your own ingredient swaps to make your own healthy chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Tips for Making Almost Healthy and Surprisingly Good Chocolate Chip Cookies

There's nothing quite as comforting as a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie, but for many of us, indulging in that sweet treat comes with a side of guilt. Fortunately, it's possible to create cookies that are both delicious and healthy with just a few simple swaps and tricks. Here are some tips for creating almost healthy and surprisingly good chocolate chip cookies.

Tip 1: Use High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients you use can make a big difference in the taste and texture of your cookies. Opt for organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free ingredients whenever possible. Look for high-quality chocolate chips made with real cocoa butter rather than vegetable oil and choose unrefined sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of white sugar.

Tip 2: Swap Out Flour

Traditional all-purpose flour can be high in refined carbs and gluten, which can cause inflammation in the body. Swap out flour for almond flour or coconut flour for a healthier, gluten-free option. These flours also provide a nutty flavor and a chewy texture that works well in chocolate chip cookies.

Tip 3: Use Natural Sweeteners

Instead of using white sugar, opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. These options have a lower glycemic index and are less processed, which means they won't spike your blood sugar levels or cause inflammation in the body.

Tip 4: Opt for Healthy Fats

Many cookie recipes call for butter or margarine, which can be high in unhealthy saturated and trans fats. Instead, use healthier fats like coconut oil or avocado oil, which are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, they add extra flavor to your cookies without the added calories.

Tip 5: Add Nutrients with Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and protein that can boost the nutritional value of your chocolate chip cookies. Add in chopped walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds to add a satisfying crunch and a nutritious boost to your favorite cookie recipe.

Tip 6: Use Dark Chocolate Chips

Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants and has been shown to have heart-healthy benefits. Instead of using milk chocolate chips, opt for dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cacao. They'll add a rich, chocolatey flavor and provide a nutritious boost to your cookies.

Tip 7: Watch Your Portions

Even the healthiest cookie recipe can pack on the calories if you're not careful. Keep an eye on your portion sizes and limit yourself to one or two cookies per serving. This will help you avoid overindulging and keep your calorie intake in check.

Tip 8: Store Them Properly

Storing your cookies properly can help keep them fresh and delicious for longer. If you're not planning on eating them right away, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze your cookies for up to three months, just be sure to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying them.

Tip 9: Get Creative with Add-Ins

Chocolate chips are just the beginning when it comes to add-ins for your cookies. Get creative and add in dried fruit like cranberries or apricots, shredded coconut, or even spices like cinnamon or ginger. You'll add extra flavor and texture to your cookies without adding extra calories.

Tip 10: Don't Forget to Enjoy!

At the end of the day, cookies are meant to be enjoyed. So don't stress too much about making the perfect healthy cookie recipe. Use these tips as a guide, but don't forget to have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the delicious results of your baking efforts. In summary, making almost healthy and surprisingly good chocolate chip cookies is all about making smart ingredient choices and getting creative in the kitchen. By swapping out unhealthy ingredients with healthier options, you can create cookies that are both delicious and nutritious. So get baking and enjoy the comforting and satisfying taste of a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie!