Incorporating fitness into your routine is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Denise Austin, a renowned fitness expert, not only advocates for regular exercise but also emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet. In this article, we’ll explore a delicious and nutritious cookie recipe that aligns with Denise Austin’s philosophy of health and wellness. These cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a source of energy and nourishment for your body.
Ingredients for Denise Austin’s Fitness Cookies
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Denise Austin’s Fitness Cookies
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, dried fruit, dark chocolate chips, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the honey or maple syrup, almond butter or peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Microwave for 20-30 seconds to soften the mixture if needed. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Form Cookies: Using your hands, form the mixture into small cookies, about 1-2 tablespoons each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the palm of your hand.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious and nutritious cookies as a snack or as a post-workout treat.
About the Main Ingredients
- Oats: Oats are a great source of fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. They also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
- Almond Flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free alternative to traditional flour. It adds a nutty flavor and provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
- Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut adds flavor and texture to the cookies. It also provides healthy fats and fiber.
- Nuts: Chopped nuts add crunch and protein to the cookies. They are also a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
- Dried Fruit: Dried fruit adds natural sweetness and chewiness to the cookies. It also provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness and decadence to the cookies. Dark chocolate is also rich in antioxidants and may have health benefits when consumed in moderation.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners add sweetness to the cookies without refined sugar. They also provide some vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Almond Butter or Peanut Butter: These nut butters add richness and flavor to the cookies. They also provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the cookies. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds flavor and sweetness to the cookies. It is a common ingredient in baking and adds depth to the overall taste.
These cookies are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout treat or a healthy snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to please.
