Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to boost your milk supply? Look no further! These gluten-free lactation cookies are packed with ingredients known to support breastfeeding, and they're incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack, or even a delightful dessert, these cookies are a must-try for nursing moms seeking a delicious and nutritious treat. Say goodbye to bland breastfeeding snacks and hello to these incredibly flavorful and beneficial cookies!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- ½ cup almond flour
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup flaxseed meal
- 2 tablespoons brewer's yeast (provides B vitamins important for milk production)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, flaxseed meal, brewer's yeast, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
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Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
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Chocolate Chips (Optional): Gently fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
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Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
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Baking Time: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
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Cool: 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 Lactation Cookies:
- Oats: Using certified gluten-free oats is crucial if you have celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
- Brewer's Yeast: This ingredient is key for its nutritional benefits for breastfeeding mothers. Don't skip it! The slightly nutty/savory flavor balances well with the sweetness.
- Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding chopped nuts, dried fruits (cranberries, raisins), or seeds (chia, sunflower) for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for unique flavor profiles.
- Sweetener: Substitute maple syrup or honey for the brown sugar, adjusting the amount to your preference.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie, may vary based on ingredients used):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredient measurements.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams
- Fat: Approximately 4-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-18 grams
These delicious and easy-to-make gluten-free lactation cookies are a fantastic addition to any nursing mother's diet. Enjoy! They're a perfect healthy snack for busy moms, and a comforting treat at the end of a long day. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially while breastfeeding.