Almost Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

🍪🥜 Almost Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies 🥜🍪

What is it?
Almost Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are delicious, gluten-friendly treats perfect for peanut butter lovers. These cookies have a minimal amount of flour, creating a chewy and nutty texture, while still maintaining the classic peanut butter flavor.

History:
Peanut butter cookies have been a staple in American baking since the early 20th century. The classic version typically includes a combination of peanut butter, sugar, and eggs. The concept of “almost flourless” cookies likely evolved as people sought gluten-free or low-flour alternatives to cater to dietary preferences and restrictions.

Components:

• 1 cup peanut butter: Use smooth or crunchy, depending on your preference.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Though minimal, it helps give the cookies structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent for a slight rise.
• A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• Optional add-ins: Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.

Steps to Prepare:

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

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If you’re adding optional ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the dough.

5. Shape Cookies: Use a spoon or your hands to form small balls of dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

6. Flatten: Use a fork to flatten each cookie, creating a crisscross pattern on top.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; these cookies are best when slightly undercooked for that chewy texture.

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.

Total Time Needed:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Baking: 10-12 minutes
• Cooling: 15-20 minutes
• Total: Approximately 40-47 minutes

Enjoy your Almost Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies! 🍪🥜😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Almost Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies:

Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, approximately):

• Calories: 90-110 calories
• Total Fat: 7-8 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 5-10 milligrams
• Sodium: 60-80 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 6-8 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
  • Sugars: 4-5 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams

Health Information:

1. Protein Source: These cookies provide a small amount of protein, primarily from the peanut butter and the egg. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.

2. Fats: Peanut butter contributes healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These can be heart-healthy and aid in nutrient absorption.

3. Calorie Content: Each cookie contains around 90-110 calories, making them a relatively low-calorie treat when consumed in moderation.

4. Sugar: The cookies contain a moderate amount of sugar, primarily from the added sugars in the recipe. You can adjust the sugar content to your preference.

5. Gluten-Friendly: Since these cookies are almost flourless, they are suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or those following a gluten-free diet.

6. Allergen Alert: Be cautious if you have nut allergies, as these cookies are made with peanut butter. You can explore alternatives like sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

7. Portion Control: While they can be a healthier dessert option, it’s still important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Remember that the specific nutrition content may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. These values provide a general idea of what to expect from Almost Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies.