Nourishing Holiday Traditions
The festive season is a time to reconnect with loved ones, share cherished traditions, and indulge in sweet treats. However, for those committed to a healthier lifestyle, the abundance of sugar-laden and processed desserts can be overwhelming. This is where innovative, nutrient-dense recipes come into play.
Revamping a Classic Favorite
Snowball cookies, with their tender texture and powdered sugar coating, are a beloved holiday staple. But what if we could recreate this classic treat using wholesome, non-toxic ingredients? Enter the Grain-Free Holiday Snowball Cookies, sweetened with monk fruit and crafted with almond flour, coconut flour, and healthy fats.
A Guilt-Free Indulgence
These buttery cookies are easy to prepare, visually stunning, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The best part? They’re free from grains and processed sugars, making them an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Whether you’re avoiding gluten, refined sugar, or simply seeking a cleaner dessert option, these snowball cookies fit the bill.
Grain-Free Holiday Snowball Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour (organic)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (organic)
- 1/4 cup coconut flour (organic)
- 1/4 cup unsalted grass-fed butter or ghee (softened)
- 3 tablespoons monk fruit sweetener (granular)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (organic, alcohol-free)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup powdered monk fruit sweetener (for rolling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dough: Combine almond flour, coconut flour, chopped nuts, monk fruit sweetener, and sea salt. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake: Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges turn golden.
5. Cool completely: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Coat in powdered monk fruit: Roll each cookie in the powdered monk fruit sweetener to coat.
Tips and Variations
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace chopped nuts with unsweetened shredded coconut.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a spiced holiday flavor.
The Science Behind Healthier Cookies
These Grain-Free Holiday Snowball Cookies are a healthier choice due to their nutrient-dense ingredients. Almond and coconut flours provide a grain-free base, while monk fruit sweetener offers sweetness without the glycemic spike. The use of grass-fed butter or ghee adds healthy fats, keeping you satisfied and nourished.
References:
- American Diabetes Association. (2020). Glycemic Index and Diabetes.
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2020). Healthy Fats.