Alicia’s Wheat-Free, Lactose Free Almond Surprise Cookies

Alicia’s Wheat-Free, Lactose-Free Almond Surprise Cookies are a delicious dessert option designed for individuals with dietary restrictions, particularly those who cannot consume wheat or lactose. Let’s break down the information you requested:

Name: Alicia’s Wheat-Free, Lactose-Free Almond Surprise Cookies

History: These cookies are a modern adaptation of classic almond cookies, adjusted to be wheat-free and lactose-free. They cater to people with dietary sensitivities or preferences for gluten and lactose-free options. While there isn’t a specific historical origin for this exact recipe, it’s part of a broader trend of creating inclusive and allergen-friendly recipes.

Components:

1. Almond Flour: Almond flour is used as a substitute for traditional wheat flour in this recipe. It provides a nutty flavor and a moist texture to the cookies.

2. Almonds: Chopped almonds are often added to the cookie dough for extra crunch and almond flavor.

3. Coconut Oil: Instead of butter (which contains lactose), coconut oil is used as the fat source. It imparts a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies.

4. Sugar: Typically, a combination of white and brown sugars is used for sweetness. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference.

5. Egg: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cookies.

6. Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cookies.

7. Baking Powder: Baking powder gives the cookies a bit of rise and a softer texture.

8. Salt: A pinch of salt is added to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

9. Chocolate Chips or Chunks: These are the “surprise” element of the cookies. Use dairy-free chocolate chips or chunks for a lactose-free option.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, chopped almonds, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, an egg, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

5. Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the lactose-free chocolate chips or chunks.

6. Form Cookies: Use a spoon or your hands to form small cookie dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.

8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time Needed: The preparation and baking of these cookies should take approximately 30-40 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade Alicia’s Wheat-Free, Lactose-Free Almond Surprise Cookies, which are both delicious and suitable for those with specific dietary requirements!

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alicia’s Wheat-Free, Lactose-Free Almond Surprise Cookies (per serving, based on a standard recipe):

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per cookie (varies based on size and specific ingredients used).
• Total Fat: About 9-12 grams.
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4-6 grams (from coconut oil and any chocolate used).
• Trans Fat: 0 grams.
• Cholesterol: Less than 10 milligrams (if using one egg).
• Sodium: Around 30-50 milligrams (mainly from the pinch of salt).
• Total Carbohydrates: Roughly 8-10 grams.
• Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams (from almond flour).
• Sugars: Typically 6-8 grams (from sugar and any added chocolate).
• Protein: About 2-3 grams.
• Vitamin E: Almond flour is a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant.
• Calcium: Almond flour also contains some calcium.
• Iron: A small amount of iron is present in almond flour.
• Healthy Fats: Almond flour and coconut oil provide healthy fats, including monounsaturated and saturated fats.
• Allergen-Friendly: These cookies are wheat-free and lactose-free, making them suitable for individuals with gluten and lactose sensitivities.

Health Information:

• Almond Flour: Almond flour is gluten-free and provides a source of healthy fats, protein, and dietary fiber. It’s also rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is used as a dairy-free fat source. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of saturated fat that may have some health benefits when consumed in moderation.
• Lactose-Free: These cookies are a good choice for individuals who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.
• Chocolate Chips: If using dairy-free chocolate chips, the cookies can be entirely dairy-free. Dark chocolate may provide additional antioxidants.

Keep in mind that the exact nutrition content may vary based on the specific brands and measurements of ingredients used in your recipe. These cookies can be a tasty treat for those with dietary restrictions, but as with any dessert, moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet.