When it comes to snacking, cookies are often a tempting treat. But for those looking to reduce their sugar intake, traditional cookie recipes can be a challenge. Luckily, there are many delicious and healthier alternatives that still satisfy our sweet tooth without breaking the sugar bank. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 scrumptious low-sugar cookie recipes that use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and fruit purees to minimize added sugars.
From classic flavors like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin to more adventurous options like chai spiced and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a healthier snack option or a foodie seeking new inspiration, these low-sugar cookie recipes are sure to please.
Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Experience the delightful combination of nutty almond flour and decadent chocolate chips in these indulgently soft cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5cm) between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Coconut Oatmeal Cookies with Dark Chocolate
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of oatmeal with the creaminess of coconut and the richness of dark chocolate, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Mix in oats, coconut, and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Banana Soft Cookies
This recipe combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and banana in a soft and chewy cookie that’s perfect for snacking or dessert. With only 10 ingredients, these cookies are easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Add mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Maple Glaze
Warm up your fall season with these moist and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Cookies, topped with a rich Maple Glaze.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Maple glaze (see below for ingredients and instructions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Add flour mixture, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Maple Glaze:
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Mix ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.
Lemon Zest Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these tangy and buttery lemon zest shortbreads. Perfect for a sweet treat or a gift, these cookies are sure to bring a smile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Avocado Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are a healthier take on traditional chocolate chip treats, featuring the creamy goodness of avocados. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still being mindful of your dietary needs.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, oats, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Applesauce
Sweet Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Applesauce Recipe
A classic cookie recipe gets a delicious twist with the addition of applesauce, adding moisture and flavor to these chewy treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup applesauce
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and applesauce.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in raisins.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chai Spiced Almond Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the comforting warmth of chai spices with the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. With a blend of aromatic spices and crunchy texture, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in flour mixture, almonds, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and pepper until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Double Chocolate Walnut Cookies
Treat yourself to a deliciously decadent treat with these Double Chocolate Walnut Cookies. With the perfect balance of dark and milk chocolate, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of sweetness, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips and walnuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Bean Coconut Cookies
A sweet treat that combines the creamy flavor of coconut with the warmth of vanilla, these cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and coconut.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Molasses
These classic cookies are infused with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, making them a perfect treat for any time of year. With a soft texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Decorations of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Pecan Snickerdoodles
Elevate your snickerdoodle game with the addition of warm cinnamon and crunchy pecans. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and cream of tartar.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Cranberry Walnut Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies combine the brightness of orange zest with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a seasonal treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add marmalade and mix well.
4. Beat in eggs and orange zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in cranberries and walnuts.
7. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Experience the unique flavor of Japan with these Matcha Green Tea Cookies, infused with the subtle bitterness and grassy notes of high-quality matcha powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add matcha powder and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
A classic favorite gets a delicious twist with these soft and chewy peanut butter cookies filled with a sweet and tangy jelly surprise. Perfect for a quick treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Jelly or jam of your choice (about 1-2 tablespoons per cookie)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Make an indentation in each ball with your thumb (or a spoon).
6. Fill each indentation with jelly or jam.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blueberry Almond Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of blueberries with the nutty flavor of almond butter, perfect for a snack or dessert. With only 8 ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream together almond butter and sugar until smooth.
4. Add the blueberries and mix until they’re evenly distributed.
5. Beat in the egg.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oat Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a sweet treat to brighten up your day. The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats will transport you to a comforting place.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add diced apples and cinnamon to the wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent cookies that combine the deep flavors of dark chocolate and hazelnuts. Perfect for a special treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Raspberry Coconut Macaroons
Raspberry Coconut Macaroons: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
These chewy macaroons are infused with the sweetness of raspberries and the creaminess of coconut, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and egg whites until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
5. Fold in pureed raspberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These sweet treats combine the flavors of carrot cake and cream cheese frosting in a soft, chewy cookie form. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until combined. Fold in grated carrot and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and healthy world of low sugar cookies! This collection of 20 recipes offers a variety of delicious and guilt-free treats to satisfy your cravings. From classic flavors like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin, to unique combinations like peanut butter and banana or chai spiced almond, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is carefully crafted to reduce the amount of added sugar while maintaining their signature taste and texture. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick snack or a health-conscious individual seeking a sweet treat, these low sugar cookie recipes are sure to please.
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