If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dessert or snack that’s free of sugar and flour, these energy-packed cookies are perfect for you. Packed with nuts, seeds, and natural sweetness from fruits and honey, these cookies are nutrient-dense, satisfying, and perfect for those who want to enjoy a treat without the guilt.
Here are two easy-to-make, healthy cookie recipes that will give you a boost of energy while keeping your diet clean and wholesome.
Recipe 1: Nut and Seed Biscuits
These Nut and Seed Biscuits are a powerhouse of nutrition. Loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats from nuts and seeds, they make for the perfect snack to fuel your day. Plus, the natural sweetness from dried apricots and honey makes them irresistible, without the need for any added sugar.
Ingredients:
- 70g dried apricots
- 50g almonds
- 70g oats
- 30g pumpkin seeds
- 40g sunflower seeds
- 20g sesame seeds
- 20g flaxseeds
- 60g cashews
- 20g pistachios
- 20g walnuts
- 20ml honey (or an alternative natural sweetener like maple syrup or date syrup)
- 1 egg white
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Soak the Apricots: Start by soaking 70g of dried apricots in cold water for 15-20 minutes. Once softened, drain them and chop finely. The apricots add natural sweetness and moisture to the biscuits.
- Prepare the Nut and Seed Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 50g almonds, 70g oats, 30g pumpkin seeds, 40g sunflower seeds, 20g sesame seeds, 20g flaxseeds, 60g cashews, 20g pistachios, and 20g walnuts. This mix of nuts and seeds will provide a crunchy texture and a variety of nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped apricots to the nut and seed mixture, followed by 20ml of honey, 1 egg white, and a pinch of salt. The honey helps bind everything together while giving the biscuits a light natural sweetness. The egg white provides structure and helps the biscuits hold their shape.
- Shape the Biscuits: Form the mixture into small biscuits by hand or using a spoon. Flatten them slightly and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the biscuits cool before serving. These Nut and Seed Biscuits are perfect for a quick snack, breakfast on the go, or paired with your favorite tea or coffee.
Recipe 2: Peanut and Sesame Biscuits
These Peanut and Sesame Biscuits are naturally sweetened with ripe banana and Jerusalem artichoke syrup (or any alternative natural sweetener). They’re perfect for anyone looking for a flourless, sugar-free treat that still packs a punch in flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 100g peanuts
- 20g white sesame seeds
- 20g black sesame seeds
- 40g pumpkin seeds
- 20ml Jerusalem artichoke syrup (or an alternative like maple syrup, agave syrup, or honey)
- 1 ripe banana
Instructions:
- Grind the Peanuts: Place 100g of peanuts in a blender or food processor and blend until finely ground. The ground peanuts act as a base for the biscuits, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground peanuts with 20g of white sesame seeds, 20g of black sesame seeds, 40g of pumpkin seeds, 20ml of Jerusalem artichoke syrup, and 1 mashed ripe banana. The banana acts as a natural sweetener and binding agent, adding moisture and a touch of sweetness.
- Shape the Biscuits: Once the ingredients are fully combined, form the mixture into biscuits by hand. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Press them down slightly to create a biscuit shape.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden on the outside. The sesame seeds will give the biscuits a delightful crunch, while the pumpkin seeds add an extra boost of nutrition.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the biscuits to cool completely before enjoying. These Peanut and Sesame Biscuits are perfect for snacking throughout the day or as a post-workout treat. They are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a nutritious and satisfying option.
Benefits of These Healthy Cookies
1. No Added Sugar
Both recipes rely on natural sweeteners like banana, dried fruits, and honey to provide sweetness without the need for refined sugars. This makes them perfect for anyone following a low-sugar or sugar-free diet.
2. Gluten-Free
These biscuits are naturally gluten-free, as they don’t contain any flour. If you’re gluten intolerant or prefer to avoid gluten, these cookies are a great alternative.
3. Packed with Nutrients
The combination of nuts, seeds, and oats provides a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids. These ingredients will help keep you full and energized throughout the day.
4. Great for Snacking
Whether you need an afternoon pick-me-up or a healthy dessert option, these biscuits are a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings. They’re easy to pack for work or school and make a great addition to any lunchbox.
Tips and Variations
- Swap Ingredients: Feel free to swap the nuts and seeds based on your preference or what you have on hand. For example, you can replace peanuts with almonds or swap pumpkin seeds for chia seeds.
- Sweetener Alternatives: If you prefer a different sweetener, feel free to use maple syrup, agave syrup, or date syrup in place of honey or Jerusalem artichoke syrup.
- Add Spices: For an extra flavor boost, try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to the mix.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
These two recipes are not only a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, but they also offer a delicious way to enjoy dessert without compromising your dietary goals. Whether you’re avoiding sugar, gluten, or simply looking for a more nutritious treat, these Nut and Seed Biscuits and Peanut and Sesame Biscuits are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy!
