Chocolate Chip Cookies With Banana And Applesauce
If you're a fan of sweet treats, chances are you love the classic chocolate chip cookie. But let's face it, most traditional cookie recipes are loaded with sugar, butter, and other not-so-healthy ingredients. Luckily, there are ways to make this beloved snack a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Enter: chocolate chip cookies with banana and applesauce.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies with Banana and Applesauce
First things first, gather your ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mash the bananas until they're mostly smooth. Add the applesauce, peanut butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt, then stir until well combined. Fold in the oats and chocolate chips.
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, then flatten each cookie a bit with your fingers or a spatula. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious and healthier version of chocolate chip cookies!
Why Choose Banana and Applesauce?
Using banana and applesauce in place of some of the more traditional ingredients like butter and sugar has several benefits. For starters, bananas add natural sweetness to the cookies without the need for extra sugar. They also provide moisture, which helps keep the cookies from becoming dry or crumbly.
Applesauce serves a similar purpose, adding moisture and sweetness without the extra fat and calories found in butter. It's also a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Another bonus of using banana and applesauce is that they're both packed with nutrients. Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber, while apples are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
A Healthier Spin on a Classic Treat
Chocolate chip cookies are a classic treat that most people can't resist. But when you're trying to eat healthier, they're not exactly the best choice. By swapping out some of the less-than-healthy ingredients for banana and applesauce, you can create a version that's still tasty but also better for you.
Keep in mind that while these cookies are healthier than the traditional version, they still contain some sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation. But hey, at least you can feel a little less guilty about indulging in a sweet treat!
Conclusion
Chocolate chip cookies with banana and applesauce are a healthier twist on a classic treat. They're easy to make and packed with nutrients, making them a great option for a snack or dessert. So next time you're craving something sweet, give this recipe a try and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!
