Chickpea Cookie Dough
If you’re on the lookout for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while packing a nutritional punch, look no further than Chickpea Cookie Dough! This delightful twist on classic cookie dough uses chickpeas as the base, providing fiber and protein without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re indulging after dinner or enjoying a midday snack, this cookie dough will have you feeling good about your choices. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect recipe for busy days.
Why I Love This Recipe
What’s not to love about Chickpea Cookie Dough? This recipe is not only simple, but it’s also versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences. The creamy peanut butter adds richness, while the oats bring texture and heartiness to the mix. The best part? You get to enjoy the flavor of cookie dough without the guilt associated with traditional recipes. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some plant-based protein and fiber, making it an ideal snack for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup, allowing you to indulge without the refined sugars.
Ingredient List
- 1 (15-ounce) can reduced sodium chickpeas, rinsed and drained (or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas or white beans)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (or nut butter of choice; for nut-free, see blog post above for suggestions)
- ½ cup rolled oats (or quick cooking oats; for grain-free options, see blog post above for suggestions)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup pure maple syrup (plus additional to taste)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup dark chocolate chips (or mini chocolate chips)
Equipment & Tools
- Food processor: For blending the ingredients into a smooth texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the food processor and mix in the chocolate chips.
- Mixing bowl: Optional, for combining ingredients if not using a food processor.
Make Chickpea Cookie Dough: A Simple Method
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by rinsing and draining the chickpeas thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove excess sodium and ensure a clean taste. Place the chickpeas in your food processor.
Step 2: Add the Nut Butter
Scoop in the creamy peanut butter or your nut butter of choice. This will provide a rich, creamy texture that mimics traditional cookie dough.
Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt to the food processor. These ingredients bring flavor and structure to your cookie dough.
Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor
Pour in the pure maple syrup and vanilla extract. These ingredients will sweeten the dough naturally while adding a depth of flavor.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Cover the food processor and blend until the mixture is completely smooth. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 6: Mix in the Chocolate Chips
Once the dough is smooth, add the dark chocolate chips and pulse a few times until they’re evenly distributed. This step adds a delightful surprise in each bite!
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your dough a taste. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to drizzle in a bit more maple syrup and blend again.
How to Make It Lighter
- Substitute peanut butter with a lighter nut or seed butter, such as sunflower seed butter.
- Reduce the amount of maple syrup by half and adjust sweetness with a stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Use rolled oats sparingly or replace with ground flaxseed for a lower-carb option.
- Increase the ratio of chickpeas to nut butter for a higher protein content and lower fat.
Cook’s Commentary
This Chickpea Cookie Dough is a fantastic base for experimentation. Feel free to swap out the chickpeas for white beans if you prefer a milder flavor or want to switch things up. You can also get creative with mix-ins—try adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or coconut flakes for different textures and flavors. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and can be adjusted to fit dietary preferences. Just remember to keep tasting as you go; that’s the real secret to making a delicious cookie dough!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This Chickpea Cookie Dough is freezer-friendly! Once you’ve blended your dough, you can scoop it into small balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag for easy snacking later. Just grab a ball or two whenever you’re craving something sweet. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer for a refreshing treat or thawed for a couple of minutes at room temperature.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas work perfectly. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well to reduce sodium and improve flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses maple syrup and plant-based ingredients. Just ensure any nut butter you choose is vegan.
Can I substitute the oats for something else?
Yes! If you’re looking for a grain-free option, you can replace oats with ground flaxseed or almond flour. Adjust the wet ingredients accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
How long does the cookie dough last in the fridge?
Chickpea Cookie Dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it firms up!
Serve & Enjoy
Once your Chickpea Cookie Dough is ready, it’s time to dig in! You can enjoy it straight out of the bowl, spread it on whole-grain toast, or even use it as a topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls. The possibilities are endless, and the best part is you can feel good about indulging in this delicious treat.
Indulging in Chickpea Cookie Dough means you’re embracing a healthier lifestyle while still satisfying your craving for something sweet. This recipe is a game-changer for those who love cookie dough but want a nutritious alternative. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with friends, this cookie dough is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, fire up that food processor, and get ready to enjoy a delicious treat that’s both good for you and incredibly satisfying!
Chickpea Cookie Dough
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rinsing and draining the chickpeas thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove excess sodium and ensure a clean taste. Place the chickpeas in your food processor.
- Scoop in the creamy peanut butter or your nut butter of choice. This will provide a rich, creamy texture that mimics traditional cookie dough.
- Add the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt to the food processor. These ingredients bring flavor and structure to your cookie dough.
- Pour in the pure maple syrup and vanilla extract. These ingredients will sweeten the dough naturally while adding a depth of flavor.
- Cover the food processor and blend until the mixture is completely smooth. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything is well combined.
- Once the dough is smooth, add the dark chocolate chips and pulse a few times until they're evenly distributed. This step adds a delightful surprise in each bite!
- Give your dough a taste. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to drizzle in a bit more maple syrup and blend again.
Notes
- This cookie dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- For a lighter option, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Freeze scoops of dough for a quick, sweet snack anytime!
