These Quick Healthy Cookies are a delightful and nutritious snack that you can enjoy any time of the day. Packed with a variety of nuts and seeds, these cookies are not only delicious but also provide a great source of energy and essential nutrients. The natural sweetness from dried apricots and a touch of honey makes these cookies a perfect guilt-free treat.
Ideal for those who are avoiding sugar, gluten, and flour, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking. Whether you need a quick energy boost before a workout or a healthy snack to keep you going throughout the day, these Energy-Boosting Nut and Seed Cookies are the perfect solution. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later – they’re sure to become a favorite in your healthy snack repertoire.
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried apricots (85g), chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts (50g), chopped
- 2/3 cup roasted salted peanuts (100g)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (30g)
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (30g)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (10g)
- 1/3 cup almonds (50g), chopped
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (10g)
- 1 tablespoon flaxseeds (10g)
- 1 tablespoon honey (20g)
- 1 medium egg white (~25g)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped dried apricots, walnuts, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, almonds, poppy seeds, and flaxseeds.
- Add the honey and egg white to the mixture, and stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Using a spoon or your hands, form the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Health Benefits
These Quick Healthy Cookies are designed to provide a nutritious snack that is both delicious and beneficial for your health. Here are some of the key health benefits of the ingredients used:
- Dried Apricots: Rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. They aid in digestion, improve skin health, and boost the immune system.
- Walnuts: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein. They support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.
- Roasted Salted Peanuts: High in protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. They provide sustained energy and support muscle growth and repair.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Packed with magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants. They support heart health, immune function, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Sunflower Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins E and B6. They help reduce inflammation and support skin health.
- Sesame Seeds: A good source of calcium, magnesium, and iron. They promote bone health and help regulate blood pressure.
- Almonds: High in healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamin E. They support heart health, weight management, and provide sustained energy.
- Poppy Seeds: Contain calcium, iron, and magnesium. They support bone health and help improve digestion.
- Flaxseeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans. They support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.
- Honey: A natural sweetener with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It provides a quick source of energy and helps boost the immune system.
- Egg White: High in protein and low in calories. It helps bind the ingredients together and adds a protein boost to the cookies.
Tips for Making the Best Quick Healthy Cookies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh nuts and seeds will provide the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
- Chop Evenly: Ensure the dried apricots and nuts are chopped evenly to help the cookies bind together better and bake evenly.
- Mix Thoroughly: Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the honey and egg white coat all the nuts and seeds evenly.
- Flatten Slightly: Flattening the cookies slightly before baking helps them cook evenly and achieve a nice, golden-brown color.
- Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and develop their final texture.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- On-the-Go Snack: Perfect for a quick and healthy snack while on the go.
- Pre-Workout Boost: Provides a great source of energy before a workout.
- Post-Workout Recovery: Helps replenish energy and support muscle recovery after exercise.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a delicious and nutritious treat.
- As a Dessert: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a healthy dessert option.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: These cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Conclusion
These Quick Healthy Cookies are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make snack. Free from sugar, flour, and gluten, they are perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to make healthier choices. The combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day. Try making these cookies and enjoy the perfect blend of taste and health in every bite!