Bake a Batch of Treats this December 4th for National Cookie Day

Did you know that chocolate chip cookies are the most popular cookie in the country?

Of course, this comes as no surprise given, they are ooey gooey and delicious, however, there are hundreds of other delectable treats worth indulging in. This time of year is perfect to bust out the flour, set the oven to bake, and get mixing because December 4^th is National Cookie Day.

As the holiday season approaches you may be asked to join in on a cookie swap. This is an event where people bake batches of cookies, and everyone exchanges some of their selection for some from everyone else. The problem is, you don’t want to make a cookie that everyone else is going to also bake. Luckily, there are hundreds of recipes you can choose from that are delicious, but not as popular as chocolate chip!

Cookie Ingredient Swaps

There is no greater feeling than biting into a cookie fresh out of the oven. Making cookies at home is not only a great activity for the family, but it also enables you to know exactly what goes into your cookies.

Enjoy them as is, or consider some of these ingredient swaps to boost the nutrient content of your cookies!

Whole Wheat Flour: Add more fiber to your cookies by swapping out all or some of the white refined flour for whole wheat. This flour has more fiber which helps to maintain bowel health and can even lower your cholesterol and blood glucose levels.

Add Nuts: Some recipes call for nuts, while others may suggest adding them to give the cookies some crunch. Nuts are a great way to add heart-healthy fat, which can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL).

Swap Out Eggs: One of the major allergens is eggs! If someone is allergic to eggs or is a vegan, they can still enjoy many cookies by swapping out the eggs for a banana. One egg can be swapped for a mashed banana.

Add Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the butter the recipe calls for with Greek yogurt. The cookie will still be soft, but it will now have healthy fat and more protein.

Reduce the Sugar: Try reducing the amount of sugar that the recipe calls for. You can even try swapping out the sugar for a substitute to make the cookies more friendly for those with diabetes.

Yummy Cookie Ideas

Figuring out which cookie to bake can be the longest part of the process. There are so many cookies to choose from you may be overwhelmed. Here is a list of delicious cookies ideas to try:

M&M Bars: These are great for events with children; they will love the added chocolate!

Cake Mix: If you are short on time, you can make cookies using a cake mix! The only other ingredients you need are oil and eggs.

Lemon Drop Cookies: These cookies are refreshing and light, perfect for after a holiday meal.

Chocolate Shortbread Cookies: While you may come across classic shortbread cookies, rarely do you find them made with chocolate!

Oreo Cookie Balls: There is literally nothing tastier than a cookie within a cookie.

Whatever cookies you decide to make, don’t forget to share!

Your Turn to Action: What are your favorite cookies to make? Let me know in the comments below.