Take Your Cookies to the Next Level (with Simple Nutritional Boosts to the Recipe)

Did you know that people have been enjoying cookies for over a thousand years? Cookies have been popular for many years and for good reason. There is no aroma better than a batch of fresh cookies straight from the oven. So, whip up a tray of your favorite sweet treat on December 4th for National Cookie Day!

Like many holidays in December, National Cookie Day is all about celebrating one of America’s favorite sweet treats. Whether you’re someone who likes to bake or just simply enjoy them out of the package with a nice cold glass of milk, cookies make for a delicious treat this time of year.

4 Ways to Boost the Nutritional Profile of Your Cookie Recipe

It’s hard to go wrong when enjoying or making cookies, however, there are a few things you can do to increase their nutritional profile. You don’t even have to compromise their taste! Check out some of the ways you can give your cookies a nutritious boost:

1. Dough- While a classic cookie recipe usually calls for all-purpose white flour, you you can try experimenting with almond flour, oat flour, or coconut flour which are all higher in fiber and rich in protein. Or, try using whole grain rolled oats as a base!

2. Fat- Cookies need some sort of fat to make them hold together, taste good, and give them their nice golden-brown look. Many cookie recipes call for the use of butter. However, you can swap for a plant-based butter made with olive oil or avocado oil which are rich in healthy fats like omega 3’s and lower in saturated unhealthy fats.

3. Sugar- What are cookies without a little sweetness? Try out different types of sugar such as coconut sugar, or a fruit puree to add in some sweetness.

4. Add ins- While cookies are delicious all on their own, they can be even better with some sweet additions! If you are adding in chocolate chips, use dark chocolate chips which are rich in antioxidants. You can even try adding nuts to your cookies such as walnuts or almonds, which add in healthy fats and a little added crunch.

4 Ways to Enjoy National Cookie Day

There is no wrong way to eat a cookie, and that means there is no wrong way to celebrate National Cookie Day. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

1. Try a New Recipe- It’s easy to use the same cookie recipe you have been using for years however if you try out a new recipe you may find a new and delicious way to enjoy cookies. When searching for a fun new cookie recipe try searching for a “no-bake” cookie. No-bake cookies can be delicious and save you a little time in the kitchen!

2. Host A Cookie Night- Baking cookies can be a lot of fun! Next time you are thinking of making cookies, have your friends and family join in on the fun.

3. Make Ice Cream Sandwiches- Cookies taste even better with a scoop of ice cream. If you wanted to try out a fun dessert, you can make your own ice cream cookie sandwiches right at home.

4. Bake & Donate- Baking cookies are a great way to give back. If you happen to make more cookies than you can handle, simply donate them to a nearby charity.

Cookies are fun and making small swaps in your cookie baking can make them even more enjoyable. Whichever way you like to enjoy your cookies, be sure to have fun this holiday season!

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite cookie recipe? Let me know in the comment section below.

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