Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies: Fluffy, Wholesome, and Low-Calorie Recipe

### Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies: Light, Airy, and Low-Calorie Recipe

Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular due to numerous factors, including health issues and personal food choices. For cookie lovers who must steer clear of gluten, there is a tasty substitute: gluten-free chocolate chip cookies. This recipe emphasizes crafting light, airy, and low-calorie cookies that will satisfy your cravings while being gluten-free.

#### Ingredients

– **1 cup almond flour**: A fantastic gluten-free option that contributes moisture and a nutty taste.
– **1/2 cup coconut flour**: Assists in moisture absorption and imparts a light texture.
– **1/2 teaspoon baking soda**: Offers leavening for a light and airy cookie.
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**: Enhances the cookies’ flavor.
– **1/4 cup coconut oil**: A healthier fat source that ensures the cookies remain moist.
– **1/4 cup honey or maple syrup**: Natural sweeteners that provide flavor and moisture.
– **1 large egg**: Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: Contributes to complexity of flavor.
– **1/2 cup dark chocolate chips**: Opt for dairy-free if preferred for a vegan choice.

#### Instructions

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

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly to achieve uniformity.

3. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract until consistent.

4. **Combine Mixtures**: Slowly integrate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Take care not to overmix.

5. **Fold in Chocolate Chips**: Carefully fold in the dark chocolate chips until they are evenly mixed into the dough.

6. **Scoop the Dough**: With a tablespoon or cookie scoop, place rounded portions of dough on the lined baking sheet, ensuring space between each as they will spread a bit.

7. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden hue. The centers may appear slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

8. **Cool**: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool fully.

#### Tips for Success

– **Chill the Dough**: For even lighter cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes prior to baking. This helps the cookies keep their shape and texture.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: Add a dash of cinnamon or a tablespoon of nut butter for enhanced flavor.
– **Storage**: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for extended preservation.

#### Nutritional Benefits

These gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are not only tasty but provide several nutritional advantages:

– **Lower in Calories**: Utilizing almond and coconut flour makes these cookies lower in calories compared to classic cookies made with all-purpose flour.
– **Healthy Fats**: Coconut oil supplies medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can support energy and metabolism.
– **Natural Sweeteners**: Honey and maple syrup serve as healthier substitutes for refined sugar, offering antioxidants and minerals.

#### Conclusion

Gluten-free chocolate chip cookies can be light, airy, and low in calories while still being an enjoyable treat. This recipe presents an easy method for relishing a classic favorite without gluten, accommodating various dietary requirements. Savor these cookies fresh from the oven or as a sweet snack throughout the week!