Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet. If you’re looking for a treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while providing a healthier option, you’ve come to the right place! These cookies are chewy, refreshing, and packed with zesty lemon flavor—all while being gluten-free. They’re ideal for snack time, dessert, or even an afternoon pick-me-up with tea or coffee. Whether you’re sharing with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these cookies will surely delight!
What You’ll Need for Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies
Gather the following ingredients to whip up a batch of these delicious lemon almond cookies:
- 2 cups almond flour (200g)
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (1g)
- 1/4 tsp salt (1g)
- 3 tbsp coconut oil (solid) (45g)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup (45ml)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (30ml)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)
- 1 tsp lemon extract (5ml)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) (60g)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (for glaze) (5ml)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (for glaze) (from about 1 lemon)
Step-by-Step Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easy.
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In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.
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Next, add the coconut oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
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Use a cookie scoop or your hands to scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough. Roll them into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball slightly with your palm.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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While the cookies are cooling, prepare the lemon glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until it’s smooth.
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Once the cookies have cooled, dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze. Allow any excess glaze to drip off, then sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top. Let the glazed cookies sit for about 1 hour so the glaze can set.
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
How to Serve Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies
The best way to enjoy Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies is with a cup of tea or coffee. You can serve them on a pretty plate, perhaps accompanied by fresh fruit or a scoop of yogurt to balance the sweetness. These cookies are great for afternoon tea or as a light dessert after dinner. For a special touch, garnish with a few lemon slices or edible flowers.
Helpful Tricks for Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies
- Storage Tip: Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess.
- Flavor Variation: Try adding some poppy seeds to the dough for a delightful twist!
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup.
Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies FAQs
Can I use other flours for this recipe?
Almond flour gives the best flavor and texture for these cookies. However, you can try using coconut flour, but keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the liquid ingredients, as coconut flour is more absorbent.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
Good news! This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just make sure that the coconut oil and maple syrup you use are refined if necessary.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave for a quick treat.
These Healthier Chewy Lemon Almond Cookies are not just a sweet treat; they’re a wholesome indulgence you’ll want to keep making. Give them a try and enjoy every delightful, tangy bite!