Yum, yum, yummy… So, you want a delicious sweet treat? A treat packed with healthy fats, and lots of fiber. A treat that you can feel good about. These raw cookie dough balls or bites are made with pure real food ingredients, unlike the majority of packaged, processed treats from the grocery store. They are secretly healthy, vegan, gluten free, and require no baking!
If you have a sweet tooth, it’s a great idea to prioritize making these healthy treats, to have on hand for when you get an irresistible craving. That way, it will minimize your chances of reaching for something that will leave you feeling guilty, and perhaps even a little yucky. Start crowding out the bad with the good in your life. Your kids probably won’t even notice, because these are so sinful tasting. I even challenge you coconut haters…I have given these balls to your kind before, and have been told that they aren’t half bad, which is quite far from hating, in my opinion. There is no denying that these are coconut-y, but the combination of ingredients tastes so much like cookie dough that even the biggest hater wanes. Try them, to see what you think, but really if you’re not interested, that just leaves more for us people who love them.
These are made using coconut flour. Coconut flour is made from dried and ground coconut flesh. It can be eaten raw, unlike regular all-purpose flour, which may contain harmful bacteria. Actually, I didn’t realize this until now. I always thought it was the raw eggs that were concerning. Although, that never stopped me…I grew up with my fingers in the bowl. It was a special treat to lick the beater after making a cake, but I guess it’s not the safest thing to do. You can run the risk of getting sick from food poisoning, or getting other foodborne illnesses, including E. coli. Oh my, not E. coli!
Back to coconut flour, and all its goodness. It’s rich in fiber, protein, and iron and it’s lower in carbs than regular all-purpose flour. It has more fat than regular flour, but the fats are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are linked to benefits like brain, and heart health, and even weight loss. Now you can’t expect to gobble these down like Cookie Monster would, and anticipate a slimmer waistline. Try and control yourself, these balls can trigger your inner monster. Consumed thoughtfully, in moderation, and instead of those other sweets you were getting carried away with, dropping a couple pounds may be achievable.
They are made with no added refined sugar. Just good old maple syrup, and the sugar found in the chocolate chips you choose to use. So, choose wisely. I definitely prefer using mini chocolate chips in these cookie balls, as they will not only roll into balls easier, but they will also have a better distribution of chocolate. I like to use dark chocolate. Usually, 70% dark chocolate is dairy free, but make sure to check the ingredients if you want to keep it low in sugar, and or vegan.
Another great alternative would be to substitute the chocolate chips for cacao nibs. This version may not be for everyone, but I personally find it to be less sweet, yet still a divine way of making a treat. Last, but not least, don’t skip the salt, a pinch of salt goes a long way in bringing all of the ingredients together.
These cookie balls will keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to two months, or in the freezer for 6 months.
Apologies in advance if you just can’t stop eating these! To make these beauties you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded coconut… if your coconut isn’t very fine, pulse it in the food processor a bit to make it a little less rough, and easier to work with.
- ½ cup coconut flour
- ¼ cup coconut oil…if your coconut oil is solidified, you can warm it up quickly to make it a liquid first. I personally use it in its solid form, and just smash it in more.
- 3-4 tablespoons maple syrup depending on your taste
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Simple and easy…
Toss all ingredients except for the chocolate chips together in a bowl, and mix, and mash it up, until well combined. Then sprinkle in the chocolate chips, and mix them in. Next form little balls with your hands, or if you prefer use a small ice cream scooper, or a spoon. I like using my hands, because it helps warm the coconut oil so that it all sticks together easier. If your dough is too dry, you can add a little bit more of the coconut oil.
Voila!… you’re done. This recipe is perfect for getting your children involved in the kitchen. What kid doesn’t love cookie dough? Just make sure you keep an eye out, because before you know it, they might all be gone! This recipe makes about 15 balls. Remember to store your balls in an airtight container in the fridge or the freezer.
They are sure to satisfy your cravings for good old fashioned cookie dough. Have them on hand for a snack or as a quick dessert. I hope you enjoy them as much as my family does.
Here’s wishing you lots of luck and good health on all of your cooking adventures.
