These almond love bite cookies make the perfect healthy holiday sweet treat. You can leave them on the counter during a party and they will disappear in no time—no guilt necessary.
The base of these delicious treats is pure almonds with a touch of maple syrup to add a little sweetness. The spices included in this recipe add plenty of flavor and a digestive boost.
Not only are these cookies satiating and nourishing, but they also reduce the vata dosha and have a neutral effect on pitta. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these sweet treats can increase kapha in excess, so make sure to eat them in moderation.
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients:
2 cups almond meal (sold as almond meal/flour, or grind your own in a food processor)
½ cup maple syrup
½ teaspoon freshly ground cardamom
3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon coconut oil or ghee
Optional:
¼ teaspoon ground vanilla
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, mix the almond meal, maple syrup, and spices. Add the water a little at a time to moisten the dough, using less or more as needed.
3. Grease a cookie sheet with coconut oil or ghee. If your oil or ghee has solidified, put it in the center of the cooking sheet and pop it into the oven for a minute or so. Pull it out and use a paper towel to spread the oil.
4. Roll the batter into teaspoon-sized balls and arrange them on the cookie sheet.
5. Bake for 20-30 minutes (keep your eye on them). Pull them out of the oven when the edges are lightly browned.
6. Let them cool for a few minutes, then remove carefully with a spatula and place on a plate. Allow them to completely cool before serving.
Adapted from Amadea Morningstar’s Ayurvedic Cooking for Westerners.