These Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies have a soft and chewy texture with just the right amount of sweetness, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. The tahini provides a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate chips, and the walnuts add a delightful crunch to every bite.
Not only are these cookies a treat for your taste buds, but they are also a healthier option, using almond flour and oat flour instead of traditional wheat flour. Whether you’re following a gluten-free or plant-based diet, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without any guilt!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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In another bowl, combine almond flour, oat flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
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Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts (if using).
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
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Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 170 kcal | Servings: 12 cookies
Why Choose Tahini in Baking?
Tahini is more than just a savory ingredient used in Middle Eastern dishes; it also works wonders in sweet recipes, especially in cookies. Here are a few reasons why tahini is a fantastic choice for baking:
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Nutritional Benefits: Tahini is rich in healthy fats, particularly unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. It also contains important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, contributing to bone and muscle health.
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Flavor Profile: The nutty flavor of tahini adds a depth and complexity to the cookies, making them stand out from the traditional chocolate chip cookie. The rich, slightly earthy taste complements the sweetness of chocolate and balances the overall flavor.
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Versatility: Tahini can replace butter or oils in many baked goods, making it a versatile ingredient for vegan and dairy-free recipes. Its creamy texture ensures that the cookies remain soft and chewy, even without the use of dairy products.
Healthier Alternative to Traditional Chocolate Chip Cookies
Traditional chocolate chip cookies are often packed with refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and flour. While delicious, they aren’t always the best choice for those looking to make healthier dessert options. Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies, however, provide a much-needed upgrade to the classic recipe:
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Gluten-Free: By using almond flour and oat flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Dairy-Free and Vegan: These cookies are made with coconut oil instead of butter, and since they use plant-based chocolate chips, they are both dairy-free and vegan. This makes them suitable for individuals following plant-based diets or with dairy allergies.
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Lower Sugar Content: Maple syrup, a natural sweetener, is used in place of refined sugar. Maple syrup provides a milder sweetness and adds a touch of flavor while reducing the glycemic index of the cookies.
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Rich in Healthy Fats: The combination of tahini and coconut oil provides healthy fats that can help improve cholesterol levels and support overall heart health.
How to Make the Perfect Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies
While the recipe for these Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies is simple, there are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time. Here are some key points to keep in mind when baking these treats:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture and consistency, make sure your coconut oil and tahini are at room temperature before mixing them. This will help them blend more easily and create a smoother dough.
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Measure Flour Correctly: When measuring the almond flour and oat flour, be sure to spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents the flour from being packed too tightly, which could result in dense cookies.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix the dough until just incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so it’s important to stop once the ingredients are fully combined.
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Chill the Dough: If you’re looking for thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilled dough spreads less during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
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Bake at the Right Temperature: Be sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect golden-brown edges without overcooking.
Creative Variations for Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies
While the original recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize these cookies to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for adding a personal twist to your Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies:
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Add Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans are great additions that provide a crunchy texture and an extra dose of healthy fats. Chopped nuts also pair wonderfully with the tahini and chocolate chips.
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Incorporate Dried Fruits: For a fruity twist, try adding dried cherries, cranberries, or raisins. These fruits pair beautifully with chocolate and add a bit of natural sweetness.
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Use Different Chocolate: While dairy-free chocolate chips are a great choice for vegan and dairy-free diets, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.
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Spices and Flavors: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile. These spices can complement the tahini and chocolate, creating a more complex and aromatic cookie.
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Make It a Cookie Bar: Instead of shaping the dough into individual cookies, press the dough into a baking dish and bake it as a cookie bar. This is a great option for serving larger groups or when you want to make fewer cookies.
Storing and Freezing Your Cookies
Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, store them in the fridge. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
If you’re planning on freezing the dough, you can scoop the dough into cookie-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer the frozen dough balls into a zip-top bag or airtight container. This allows you to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes.
The Benefits of Choosing Healthy Desserts
Opting for healthier dessert recipes like Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies has numerous benefits, both for your body and your mind. Not only are these cookies lower in refined sugars and unhealthy fats, but they also provide beneficial nutrients like fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
By making small changes to traditional recipes and choosing ingredients like tahini, coconut oil, and almond flour, you can enjoy your favorite treats while nourishing your body. These healthier desserts can also be a great way to introduce kids and family members to more nutritious options without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they are a versatile and nutritious dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions. With their nutty flavor, chewy texture, and rich chocolate chips, they are a crowd-pleasing option that is sure to become a favorite in your home.
By choosing healthier ingredients like tahini, almond flour, and maple syrup, you can indulge in a sweet treat that aligns with your health goals. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, looking for a gluten-free option, or simply want to enjoy a guilt-free dessert, these cookies are a must-try.
Give these Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies a try the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and satisfying. You won’t regret it!