A good Paleo replacement for holiday cookies is almond flour cookies! These cookies are delicious, healthier, and fit perfectly into a Paleo lifestyle. Almond flour is a great alternative to traditional flour for those following a Paleo diet because it is grain-free and low in carbs.
Why Almond Flour?
Almond flour is a popular choice for Paleo baking because it provides a light, nutty flavor and a moist texture to baked goods. Here are some reasons why almond flour is a great replacement for traditional flour:
- Grain-free
- Low in carbs
- Rich in healthy fats
- High in protein
- Gluten-free
Almond Flour Cookie Recipe
Here is a simple and delicious almond flour cookie recipe that you can enjoy during the holidays:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in any optional add-ins of your choice.
- Form the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten the balls with a fork to create a cookie shape.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool before enjoying!
Benefits of Almond Flour
Almond flour is not only a tasty alternative to traditional flour, but it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of almond flour:
- Rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage
- Contains magnesium, which is important for bone health and energy production
- High in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats
- Low glycemic index, which helps regulate blood sugar levels
- May aid in weight management due to its high protein and fiber content
Paleo-Friendly Sweeteners
When making Paleo desserts like almond flour cookies, it’s important to choose the right sweeteners. Here are some Paleo-friendly sweeteners you can use in your holiday baking:
- Raw honey
- Maple syrup
- Coconut sugar
- Stevia
Substitutions and Add-Ins
Feel free to customize your almond flour cookies by adding in your favorite ingredients or making substitutions to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas for substitutions and add-ins:
- Substitute coconut oil with ghee or grass-fed butter for a different flavor
- Use almond extract or other natural flavorings in place of vanilla extract
- Add in chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch
- Mix in dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a chocolatey twist
- Incorporate dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a festive touch