Imagine biting into a cookie that’s so wholesome, you barely believe it’s a treat—a cookie you can snack on, savor for breakfast, or even slip into your kid’s lunchbox without a hint of guilt. That’s the beauty of Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version): they’re soft, chewy delights brimming with oats, ripe bananas, and melty dark chocolate, all without a speck of added sugar or flour. Perfect for anyone seeking a sweet fix that’s truly nourishing, these cookies blend comforting flavors and better-for-you ingredients into each blissful, chocolate-studded bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the charm of Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) is their simplicity—each ingredient has a clear purpose, whether it’s boosting natural sweetness, binding the cookies, or adding irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll gather to make your batch a surefire hit.
- Bananas: The riper, the better—they naturally sweeten and create that moist, tender foundation, so you won’t miss sugar at all.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Adds extra moisture and natural sweetness, keeping the cookies soft and satisfying.
- Oats: Hearty, filling, and the backbone of these flourless cookies—choose old-fashioned for the chewiest texture.
- Almond milk: A splash of this plant-based milk brings everything together without overpowering.
- Raisins or nuts: For chewy bursts of sweetness or a little crunch—feel free to mix it up based on your favorites.
- Dark chocolate chunks (like Lily’s brand): Even without sugar, these deliver rich, fudgy satisfaction in every bite.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon amplifies the natural sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with the bananas and chocolate.
How to Make Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version)
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C). This gives you time to prepare the dough while ensuring the oven is ready when your cookies are. Grab your favorite baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a light greasing—this will guarantee your cookies lift off perfectly golden, never stuck.
Step 2: Mash and Mix the Fruit
In a large mixing bowl, add your ripe bananas and unsweetened applesauce. Mash them together thoroughly with a fork or potato masher. The more mashed and combined, the smoother and moister your cookie dough will be—a crucial step for that signature Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) texture.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Cinnamon
Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. Stir well so both are evenly incorporated. This duo is key for deepening those comforting flavors that make these cookies smell (and taste) like pure joy as they bake.
Step 4: Add the Oats
Tip in the oats, stirring until no dry patches remain. The oats absorb the fruity mixture and provide structure. You’ll notice the dough thickens—don’t worry, this is exactly how it should look before the next step.
Step 5: Add Almond Milk, Raisins or Nuts, and Chocolate
Pour the almond milk over the mixture to hydrate the oats just enough. Toss in your raisins (or nuts, or a combination), and finish with the dark chocolate chunks. Fold everything together so each scoop of dough gets a bit of everything—this makes every bite exciting.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Make sure your lined or greased baking sheet is ready. This makes lifting the baked cookies a breeze, and helps create perfect golden bottoms without burning or sticking.
Step 7: Portion the Cookies
Using a spoon, scoop dollops of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Flatten each slightly with the back of your spoon or your palm for even baking. They won’t spread much, so shape them to your liking before they go in the oven.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for set edges and lightly golden tops. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and you’ll know they’re done when they feel firm but still a little soft in the center.
Step 9: Cool on the Baking Sheet
Remove the pan from the oven, letting the cookies cool for several minutes right on the sheet. This bit of patience ensures they finish setting up and are easier to transfer.
Step 10: Transfer and Enjoy
Use a spatula to move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dive right in—or tuck them away for a future treat. Either way, savor your healthy, homemade cookies with pride!
How to Serve Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version)
Garnishes
Dress up your Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) with a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of extra dark chocolate chips while the cookies are just-warm for a melty finish. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of unsweetened almond butter on top adds richness and an inviting look.
Side Dishes
These cookies are perfectly at home next to a mug of herbal tea or a frothy iced coffee. For a nutritious breakfast, serve alongside Greek yogurt or fresh berries—it’s a pairing that feels like a luxurious treat, but is secretly so good for you.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies high on a rustic wooden board, or tuck them into parchment paper bags for an on-the-go snack. Wrap with twine for homemade gifting, or break them up into chunky crumbles to top smoothie bowls or oatmeal—Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) are as versatile as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; they’ll stay fresh for about three days. If your kitchen is warm, consider keeping them in the fridge to preserve that lovely chewiness.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, layering with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to three months—ideal for emergency sweet cravings or fast lunchbox fills!
Reheating
For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, give a chilled or thawed cookie a quick zap in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or warm in a low oven. This melts the chocolate just enough and revives that just-baked aroma.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned or quick oats for this recipe. Steel-cut oats won’t soften enough and can make the cookies too chewy or tough, so the texture won’t be as enjoyable.
What if my bananas aren’t ripe enough?
Super ripe bananas are ideal for Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) since they’re sweetest and blend most smoothly. If yours aren’t quite there, pop them in a paper bag or briefly bake them (peels on) at 300°F until soft and spotted.
How can I make these nut-free?
Simply skip the nuts and use extra raisins or your favorite seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) instead. Double-check that your chocolate and almond milk are allergen-safe or substitute with oat milk.
Is there a substitute for applesauce?
If applesauce isn’t on hand, try pureed pears, pumpkin puree, or even more mashed banana. Each tweak will slightly adjust the flavor, but all keep the cookies moist and tender.
How do I make the cookies crisper?
For a firmer, crispier bite, bake the cookies a little longer (watch closely to avoid burning) and let them cool completely on a rack; this helps them firm up without losing that delightful chew.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special satisfaction in baking something that tastes every bit as wonderful as it makes you feel. Whether you’re fueling your day or sharing a homemade treat, Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) let you indulge in sweetness and comfort with wholesome ingredients you trust. Give these cookies a try—you might just find your new favorite anytime snack!
Print
Healthy Cookies Without Sugar (Print Version) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy guilt-free snacking with these wholesome cookies made with oats, bananas, and dark chocolate. This sugar-free and flourless recipe is perfect for a healthy treat.
Ingredients
For the Healthy Cookies:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups oats
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup raisins or nuts
- 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (e.g., Lily’s brand)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas and applesauce. Stir well.
- Add Flavors: Mix in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.
- Incorporate Oats: Add oats to the banana mixture and stir to combine.
- Moisten Mixture: Pour in almond milk and add raisins, nuts, and chocolate. Mix well.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line or grease a baking sheet.
- Shape Cookies: Spoon portions onto the baking sheet and flatten.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool before transferring to a rack. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- These cookies are sugar-free, flourless, and a healthy option for snacking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
