Easy Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies (v, gf)

Easy Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Busy Mom's Delight

As a busy mom of two, juggling work, school runs, and everything in between, finding time for baking is a luxury. But sometimes, the craving for a sweet treat hits, and you need something quick, delicious, and preferably healthy-ish. That's where these Easy Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies come in. They're not just easy to make, they're also surprisingly satisfying and adaptable to various dietary needs. The vibrant orange zest adds a delightful zing that complements the richness of the chocolate chips beautifully, creating a truly unique flavor profile.

I discovered this recipe while searching for a quick and healthy cookie option. My kids are particularly picky, and often, what’s healthy is far from appealing. However, this recipe is an exception. They devoured them, leaving me with just a few to savour. What makes these cookies special? They're naturally vegan and gluten-free, thanks to the clever use of almond flour and coconut flour. This means I don't have to worry about any dietary restrictions, and everyone in the family can enjoy them guilt-free (or at least slightly less guilt!). The texture is slightly dense and chewy, a perfect contrast to the burst of citrusy freshness from the orange zest. And let's not forget the simplicity – the recipe requires minimal ingredients and even less time, making it the perfect mid-week treat when you're short on time but big on flavor.

Adaptability is key. I’ve found this recipe incredibly versatile. If you don't have orange Zevia, regular seltzer or even a splash of orange juice works equally well. Feel free to experiment with different nut butters; peanut butter, cashew butter – they all work! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the freedom to personalize it to your liking. While the recipe suggests almond flour and coconut flour, I have a feeling other gluten-free flours would perform just as well, but that’s an experiment for another time. For now, I'm sticking to what works and what my family loves.

These cookies have become a staple in our household. They’re great for school lunches, after-school snacks, or a quick pick-me-up when energy levels are low. I often double the recipe and freeze half for those days when I'm truly pressed for time. The frozen cookies bake beautifully and maintain their delicious taste, making them a fantastic addition to my freezer stash of easy meals and snacks.

Making these cookies has become a small moment of self-care amidst the chaos of motherhood. The simple act of mixing ingredients, the scent of baking cookies filling the kitchen, and the joy on my children's faces when they sink their teeth into these delightful treats – it’s a small moment of peace and happiness that keeps me going. So, whether you're a busy mom like me or simply looking for a quick and delicious cookie recipe, give these Easy Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies a try. You won't be disappointed!

Beyond their ease and deliciousness, these cookies also offer a sense of accomplishment. It’s a small victory in a busy day, a testament to the fact that even with limited time, you can still create something delicious and meaningful. And that, for me, is the true sweetness of these Easy Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Tips and Variations:

Make it decadent: Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the top of the cookies before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting twist.

Get creative with the citrus: Experiment with lemon or lime zest instead of orange for a different flavor profile.

Chocolate overload: Use dark chocolate chips or even chopped dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

These Easy Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just a recipe; they're a little piece of happiness baked into a convenient, healthy, and delicious treat.

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees
• In a medium bowl, stir together almond flour, coconut flour and baking powder and set aside
• In another medium bowl, mix together creamy almond butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, Orange Zevia and orange zest with a Kitchen Aid (I used a handheld one)
• Add wet ingredients and dry and mix with Kitchen Aid again until well combined
• Place in fridge for about 15-30 minutes
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spray well
• Form into cookies (about 2 tablespoons each)
• Bake in oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown
• Will stay good for 5-7 days or freeze for longer!