The holidays are a time for joy, family, and of course, delicious treats! But let's be honest, those sugary Christmas cookies can leave you feeling a little sluggish. This year, indulge in the festive spirit without the post-holiday slump with these healthy Christmas cookie recipes. We’ve managed to create delicious and festive cookies that are lighter on the sugar and packed with wholesome ingredients. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These easy recipes are ideal for homemade cooking, making them perfect for quick dinner ideas or a fun family activity.
Ingredients: (Makes about 24 cookies)
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for added richness and antioxidants)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch and healthy fats)
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: 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, combine the almond flour, rolled oats, shredded coconut, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Mix in Extras (Optional): Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped nuts, if using.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Slightly flatten each ball with a fork for a classic cookie look.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, enjoy your healthy and delicious Christmas cookies!
Tips for the Best Healthy Xmas Cookies
- Almond Flour: Almond flour is a great gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour, adding a subtle nutty flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Applesauce: Applesauce adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
- Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Cranberry Bliss: Add ½ cup dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Spiced Delight: Increase the cinnamon and ginger for a warmer, spicier cookie.
- White Chocolate Cheer: Swap dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Fiber: 2-3g
These nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy these delicious and healthy Christmas cookies guilt-free! They're perfect for sharing with friends and family during the festive season. They're a wonderful addition to your holiday baking, offering a delicious alternative to traditional, heavily sugared cookies. Happy baking!