Indulging in sweet treats can often come with a price, especially when it comes to calories. However, these Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a delightful way to enjoy a classic favorite without the guilt. Made with wholesome ingredients and filled with chocolate goodness, these cookies allow you to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your health goals in check. Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can prepare your own batch of delicious cookies.
Why We Love This Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
This cookie recipe brings together the rich, comforting flavor of chocolate chips and the warmth of freshly baked cookies, all while being mindful of calorie intake. The use of unsweetened applesauce and coconut oil not only reduces the calorie count but also adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness to each bite. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip up a batch that the whole family can enjoy. Whether it’s for a quick snack or a dessert at a gathering, these low-calorie delights will surely earn your love!
Ingredients about Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies
To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 cup chocolate chips of choice
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sweetener of choice
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
How to Make Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies Directions
Making these Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies is straightforward and fun! Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is warming up, take a large baking sheet and lay it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a separate bowl, combine the white whole wheat flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
Next, in another bowl, whisk together your chosen granulated sweetener, the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Blend them until the mixture is uniform in texture. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine everything. This step is crucial for ensuring that your cookies have a consistent texture. Once you have a dough, gently fold in the chocolate chips for that delightful chocolatey bite.
Now, it’s time to form your cookies. Measure out cookie dough to create 16 balls and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Keep in mind that the cookies will spread in the oven, so give them some room. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden. Once they’re done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake!
How to Serve Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies
These Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies are flexible when it comes to serving! You can enjoy them warm right off the baking sheet, where the chocolate chips are still gooey and melty, or let them cool down for a firmer texture. For a delightful twist, consider serving these cookies with a glass of cold almond milk or alongside fresh fruit for a balanced treat. You might also want to package some cookies into festive bags for friends and family, making for thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re serving them at a movie night, family gathering, or simply at home on a quiet evening, these cookies are bound to be a hit!
Expert Tips: Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Consistency Matters: Ensure that your dough is well-mixed but not overworked. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
- Choose Your Sweetener Wisely: Using a granulated sweetener like Stevia or Erythritol can reduce calories even further without sacrificing sweetness.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Allowing the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet makes them easier to transfer without breaking.
- Experiment with Flavors: You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of nuts for an added twist if you like.
- Watch the Time: Every oven is different, so start checking the cookies after about 9 minutes to avoid overbaking.
How to Store Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep your Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh and delicious, it’s vital to store them properly. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before placing them in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week at room temperature, but for longer freshness, consider refrigerating them. Cold cookies have a different texture, so you can warm them back up in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a soft, warm treat. If you wish to keep them even longer, freezing is an option! Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months.
Variation of Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies
Feel free to get creative with your Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies. Here are some variations you can try:
- Nutty Addition: For some added crunch, mix in chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans to the dough before baking.
- Dried Fruits: Include dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist that also adds natural sweetness.
- Different Chocolate Types: Swap out your regular chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a twist on flavor.
- Flavor Infusions: Incorporate flavors like almond extract or coconut flakes to mix things up and personalize your cookies.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this treat accessible to those on gluten-free diets.
FAQ
What makes these Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies healthier than traditional cookies?
These Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies use ingredients like unsweetened applesauce and coconut oil instead of butter and excessive sugar, reducing calories while maintaining great taste.
Can I use any type of sweetener for these cookies?
Yes! You can choose any granulated sweetener you prefer; just ensure it is suitable for baking to achieve the best results.
How can I ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?
To keep your cookies soft, be mindful not to overbake them. Check them around the 10-minute mark, and make sure to allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a bit.
Are there any alternatives to coconut oil?
If you prefer not to use coconut oil, you can substitute it with other oils like canola or melted butter, though it may slightly increase the calorie count.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Using appropriate plant-based alternatives for the sweetener and, if needed, replacing the applesauce with a flax egg can make this recipe completely vegan-friendly.
By following these tips and suggestions, you can create a scrumptious batch of Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies that are sure to please everyone. Enjoy!
Low Calorie Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option
- 2 tsps baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 2 tsps cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce Acts as a substitute for butter
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted Can be replaced with canola oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sweetener of choice Options include Stevia or Erythritol
Chocolate Chips
- 1 cup chocolate chips of choice Can use dark or white chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine white whole wheat flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sweetener, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until uniform.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine until smooth.
Shaping and Baking
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Form 16 balls of cookie dough and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.