Low Carb Cowboy Cookies
Introduction
Discover the irresistible charm of Low Carb Cowboy Cookies, a perfect treat for those who want to indulge without straying from their health goals. These cookies are a smart choice for anyone following a low-carb diet or those simply seeking a more nutritious alternative to traditional cookies. Rich in flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe combines the indulgence of a classic cowboy cookie with modern dietary considerations. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make these delightful cookies, from detailed instructions to nutritional breakdown and SmartPoints values.
Ingredients
For these Low Carb Cowboy Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
Almond Flour: 1 1/2 cups (150 grams)
Coconut Flour: 1/4 cup (30 grams)
Granulated Erythritol: 1/2 cup (100 grams)
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (115 grams), softened
Egg: 1 large
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup (90 grams)
Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: 1/4 cup (20 grams)
Chopped Walnuts: 1/4 cup (30 grams)
Dried Unsweetened Coconut: 1/4 cup (30 grams)
Flaxseed Meal: 2 tablespoons
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 2 tablespoons
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, granulated erythritol, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Ensure the mixture is well combined to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
Cream the Butter and Sweetener: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated erythritol until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should appear smooth and slightly creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cookie texture.
Incorporate Add-Ins: Fold in the sugar-free chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, dried unsweetened coconut, flaxseed meal, and unsweetened cocoa powder. These add-ins not only enhance the flavor but also add texture and nutritional value.
Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The dough will not spread much, so shape them as desired.
Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still be soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
Nutrition Information
Per cookie (based on 12 cookies):
Calories: Approximately 150
Total Fat: 12 grams
Saturated Fat: 6 grams
Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
Sodium: 90 milligrams
Total Carbohydrates: 8 grams
Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
Net Carbohydrates: 4 grams
Sugars: 1 gram
Protein: 5 grams
SmartPoints Value
Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints: 4 points per cookie
Useful Tips
Substitution Options: If you prefer a different type of flour, you can substitute with a low-carb blend, but be mindful that this may alter the texture. Additionally, coconut flour is very absorbent, so avoid using too much to prevent overly dry cookies.
Sweetener Alternatives: If you don’t have erythritol, other low-carb sweeteners such as monk fruit sweetener or stevia can be used. Adjust the amount according to the sweetness of the sweetener you choose.
Customizing Flavors: Feel free to experiment with other add-ins like chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for additional flavor variations.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Portion Control: To manage portions and stay within your dietary goals, consider pre-portioning the cookie dough into individual servings before baking.
Texture Considerations: The use of flaxseed meal and almond flour ensures a chewy texture, while the unsweetened shredded coconut adds a subtle crunch. Adjust the baking time slightly if you prefer softer or crispier cookies.
Conclusion
Low Carb Cowboy Cookies offer a satisfying and flavorful treat that aligns with health-conscious eating plans. By using ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, and low-carb sweeteners, these cookies maintain a delicious taste and satisfying texture while adhering to low-carb dietary guidelines. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier dessert option, these cookies are a perfect choice. Enjoy them as a treat, share with friends, or include them in your meal prep for a tasty and nutritious snack.