THE PULSE

The holiday season is full of delicious treats, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your health goals. These three guilt-free cookie recipes bring wholesome ingredients and that needed touch of festive flavor to your cookie tray! Share them with friends and family for a treat that’s both delicious and nutritious. 

1. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Protein Patties 

Indulge in the perfect combination of chocolate and peppermint with these protein-packed treats! Made with protein powder, dark chocolate, and a hint of peppermint, they’re ideal for satisfying a sweet tooth while fueling your body. 

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup of chocolate protein powder 
• 1/4 cup coconut flour 
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted 
• 1/4 cup of almond milk (or as needed) 
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract 
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher) 

Instructions 

1. In a bowl, mix the protein powder, coconut flour, coconut oil, almond milk, and peppermint extract until the dough forms. Adjust almond milk as needed for texture. 
2. Roll dough into small balls and flatten them into patties. 
3. Melt dark chocolate in the microwave or on the stovetop. Dip each patty in chocolate, coating fully. 
4. Place patties on parchment paper and let them set in the fridge for 15-20 minutes or until firm. 

2. Low-Sugar Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies 

Packed with heart-healthy oats and antioxidant-rich cranberries, these cookies are a holiday staple with a healthier twist. By using maple syrup as a natural sweetener and limiting refined sugars, these treats are both chewy and satisfying. 

Ingredients 

• 1 1/2 cups of rolled oats 
• 1/2 cup of almond flour 
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted 
• 1/4 cup maple syrup 
• 1/3 cup no added sugar, dried cranberries  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 
• 1/4 tsp baking powder 
• A pinch of sea salt 

Instructions 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).  
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
3. In a bowl, mix oats, almond flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. 
4. In a separate bowl, whisk melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until combined. Fold in cranberries. 
5. Scoop out dough and place on baking sheet, flattening slightly. 
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden. Allow to cool and enjoy! 

3. Gingerbread Protein Cookies 

Enjoy classic gingerbread flavor with a boost of protein in these soft, spiced cookies! Perfect for a cozy snack or post-workout treat, they blend protein powder, almond flour, and warm spices for a cookie that’s both delicious and nourishing. 

Ingredients 

• 1 cup almond flour 
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder 
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar 
• 2 tbsp molasses 
• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option) 
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger 
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg 
• 1/4 tsp baking soda 
• A pinch of sea salt 

Instructions 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. In a large bowl, whisk almond flour, protein powder, coconut sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. 
3. In a separate bowl, whisk molasses and egg. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until the dough forms. 
4. Roll dough into small balls and flatten them on the baking sheet. 
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden around the edges. Let cool and enjoy!