Are you looking for a delicious and healthy snack or dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These chickpea flour cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, boasting a subtly nutty flavor and a satisfyingly chewy texture. Perfect for a quick afternoon treat or a guilt-free indulgence, these cookies are packed with protein and fiber, making them a fantastic addition to your healthy meal plan. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this simple recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of homemade cooking and discover some delicious dishes. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (also known as besan)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the applesauce, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Mix-ins (Optional): If using, gently fold in your chosen mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts.
- Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the cookies are firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them as ovens can vary.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Chickpea Flour Cookies:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet cookies, reduce the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with the mix-ins! Dried fruit, spices like cinnamon or cardamom, or even a pinch of espresso powder can add delicious depth of flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spiced Chickpea Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Chocolate Chunk Chickpea Cookies: Use dark chocolate chunks instead of chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams
These chickpea flour cookies are a delicious and healthy treat that is surprisingly easy to make. They're a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can lead to quick dinner ideas and incredibly satisfying results. Enjoy!