How to Bake Healthy Cookies

Baking cookies is a beloved pastime for many people, but it's often associated with unhealthy ingredients like butter, sugar, and refined flour. However, with a few substitutions and tweaks, you can still enjoy delicious cookies while keeping them healthy. Here are some tips on how to bake healthy cookies:

1. Swap out refined flour for whole grain flour: Whole grain flour is packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a much healthier choice than refined flour. You can use whole wheat flour, oat flour, or a combination of different whole grain flours to give your cookies a healthy boost.

2. Use natural sweeteners: Instead of using white sugar, try using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. They are less processed and contain more nutrients than refined sugar.

3. Add healthy fats: Instead of using butter, which is high in saturated fat, try using healthier fats like coconut oil, avocado oil, or nut butter. These will still give your cookies the richness and flavor you want, but with more health benefits.

4. Sneak in some veggies: Adding some pureed vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potato, or zucchini can add moisture and nutrients to your cookies without affecting the taste.

5. Use dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and is a healthier alternative to milk chocolate. Use dark chocolate chips or chunks in your cookies for a decadent and healthy treat.

6. Add nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are a great way to add healthy fats, protein, and fiber to your cookies. Try adding chopped walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds to your cookie dough for some extra nutrition.

7. Portion control: Finally, remember that even healthy cookies should be eaten in moderation. Keep your portions small and enjoy your cookies as a treat rather than a daily snack.

By following these tips, you can bake delicious and healthy cookies that will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health.