These Healthy Chocolate Cherry Cookies bring together the deep, rich flavor of dark chocolate and the tartness of dried cherries, creating a beautifully balanced treat. The oats add a hearty texture, while the coconut and almond flour base gives them a delightful chew.
Not only are these cookies gluten-free and dairy-free, but they are also naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making them a guilt-free indulgence. They’re perfect for a mid-day snack, an after-dinner treat, or to satisfy your sweet tooth without any of the sugar crashes. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
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1/2 cup almond flour
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1/4 cup coconut flour
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1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
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1/4 cup maple syrup
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
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1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, coconut flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
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Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Gently press each cookie down with the back of the spoon to flatten slightly.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
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Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 12 cookies
Healthy Chocolate Cherry Cookies: A Guilt-Free Delight
When it comes to enjoying a sweet treat, most people are quick to worry about the impact on their health. But what if you could have the best of both worlds: a decadent, indulgent cookie that also aligns with your health-conscious lifestyle? Enter the healthy chocolate cherry cookies an irresistible combination of rich dark chocolate and tart cherries, packed into a chewy, satisfying cookie.
These cookies are a game-changer for anyone craving a sweet yet nutritious dessert. Unlike typical cookies that are loaded with refined sugars and unhealthy fats, these healthy chocolate cherry cookies are made with wholesome ingredients, providing a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, follow a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, or simply indulge in a guilt-free treat, these cookies are an excellent choice.
The Health Benefits of Healthy Chocolate Cherry Cookies
The beauty of these cookies lies in their nourishing ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of some key components:
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is the star of this recipe, providing a rich flavor while offering multiple health benefits. Unlike milk chocolate, dark chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa, which is packed with antioxidants known as flavonoids. These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress in the body, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Dark chocolate also contains mood-boosting compounds like serotonin and endorphins, making it a perfect treat when you need a little pick-me-up.
Additionally, dark chocolate has been linked to improved brain function. Some studies suggest that the flavonoids in dark chocolate can help improve cognitive function and memory, as well as reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are another essential ingredient in this recipe, offering both a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the chocolate. Cherries are loaded with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which are responsible for their deep red color. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce muscle soreness and joint pain, making them ideal for post-workout recovery.
Cherries are also known for their potential to improve sleep quality. They are one of the few natural sources of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep cycles. Consuming cherries or cherry-based products may help improve the quality of your sleep, leading to better overall health.
Oats
Oats are a key ingredient in these cookies, providing both texture and nutritional value. As a whole grain, oats are a great source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and support heart health. Oats also provide sustained energy, making them a great addition to a breakfast or snack that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
In addition to being heart-healthy, oats have a low glycemic index, which means they won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes them an excellent choice for those managing diabetes or anyone looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
Coconut Flour and Almond Flour
To keep these cookies gluten-free, coconut flour and almond flour are used as the base for the dough. Both flours are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them ideal for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
Coconut flour is known for its ability to absorb moisture, giving the cookies a dense and chewy texture. It’s also high in fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Almond flour, on the other hand, is rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, which can help reduce inflammation and support brain health.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is used in this recipe as a healthy fat source. Unlike many other oils, coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are quickly absorbed and converted into energy by the body. This makes it a great option for those looking for a natural source of energy or a metabolism-boosting ingredient. Additionally, coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can support overall immune health.
Making the Recipe Healthier
While these healthy chocolate cherry cookies are already a nutritious alternative to traditional cookies, there are several ways to make them even healthier. Here are a few tips:
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Reduce the Sweetener: The recipe calls for maple syrup as a natural sweetener. If you’re looking to reduce your sugar intake, you can cut down on the maple syrup or replace it with stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option.
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Add Superfoods: For an added nutritional boost, consider mixing in superfoods like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds. These nutrient-dense seeds provide additional fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.
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Use Darker Chocolate: The darker the chocolate, the less sugar it contains. Opt for a higher percentage of cocoa (70% or higher) to get the full health benefits without the added sugar.
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Swap Coconut Oil with Avocado: If you’re looking to reduce the saturated fat content, you can swap the coconut oil with mashed avocado. Avocado is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and will provide a creamy texture to the dough.
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Add Protein: For a more filling cookie, you can incorporate protein powder into the dough. This will help create a more balanced snack that will keep you fuller for longer.
Baking Tips for Healthy Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Baking healthy cookies can sometimes be tricky, especially when substituting traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives. Here are some baking tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
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Chill the Dough: For cookies that hold their shape and don’t spread too much while baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
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Use Parchment Paper: To prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, always line your baking tray with parchment paper. This also makes cleanup a breeze.
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Bake at the Right Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking. Baking at a lower temperature for a longer time can help prevent the cookies from burning or becoming too dry.
How to Incorporate These Cookies into Your Balanced Lifestyle
These healthy chocolate cherry cookies are the perfect snack for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without the guilt. They can fit seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle, whether you’re following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb diet, or simply want a healthier option for dessert.
Enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a cup of herbal tea, or pack them in your lunchbox for a mid-day treat. They also make an excellent addition to a healthy dessert table at family gatherings or parties.
These cookies are a great option for post-workout recovery, as the oats and dark chocolate provide sustained energy, while the cherries help reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. They’re also a great option for those following a vegan or plant-based diet, as the recipe contains no animal products.
Customization and Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about these healthy chocolate cherry cookies is how easily they can be customized. You can swap the dried cherries for other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins, depending on your taste preferences. You can also add nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for a crunchy texture and an extra boost of healthy fats.
For a festive twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor. If you want to make the cookies even more decadent, drizzle them with a little melted dark chocolate after baking.
These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a glass of almond milk or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a complete dessert experience.
Conclusion:
Healthy chocolate cherry cookies are the perfect combination of indulgence and nutrition. With their rich, dark chocolate, tangy dried cherries, and hearty oats, these cookies provide a satisfying and healthy treat that fits into any balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or just looking for a healthier dessert option, these cookies are sure to hit the spot.