Gingerbread Cookies

The holiday season is synonymous with sweet treats, but you don’t have to abandon your health goals to enjoy a festive indulgence. These Healthy Gingerbread Cookies made with almond flour are soft, flavorful, and grain-free, so you can treat yourself without the guilt!

Almond flour gives these cookies a deliciously nutty flavor and soft texture, while the combination of spices—ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—delivers that classic gingerbread taste. With a hint of maple syrup and a touch of molasses (optional for a richer flavor), these cookies are not only delicious but also much lighter than traditional gingerbread cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups almond flour

• 1 tsp ground ginger

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• 3 tbsp coconut oil or butter, melted

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk the melted coconut oil (or butter), maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and molasses (if using). Molasses adds a rich, deeper flavor but can be left out if you prefer a lighter taste.

4. Form the Dough
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too sticky, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up.

5. Shape the Cookies
   Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape your gingerbread men or any festive design.

6. Bake to Perfection
   Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

7. Cool and Enjoy
   Let the cookies cool completely before enjoying or decorating. For an extra touch, drizzle with melted dark chocolate or a glaze made with powdered monk fruit sweetener and almond milk.

Why Almond Flour?

Almond flour is a fantastic alternative to traditional wheat flour because it’s grain-free, lower in carbs, and packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. It’s also a great source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health and reduces inflammation. Plus, it helps make these cookies incredibly soft and chewy!

Pro Tip:

If you prefer your cookies with a bit of a crunch, feel free to press the dough slightly thinner before baking. You can also freeze the dough to enjoy freshly baked gingerbread cookies at a later date. Simply thaw and bake when ready!

These healthy gingerbread cookies are a perfect addition to your holiday festivities. They’re light, easy to make, and packed with the cozy spices we all love in the winter months. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies prove you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health.

Happy baking! 🎄✨

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for general informational purposes only. Always check for allergens and consult a healthcare professional for any dietary concerns. I am not legally accountable for any adverse reactions.