- These gluten-free, relatively low-carb cookies are made with coconut flour and coconut oil.
- The crunchy texture and aromatic bitterness of the cacao nibs provide a wonderful accent.
- Since coconut flour is highly absorbent, don't worry if the dough feels a bit crumbly and doesn't come together easily.
- The baking time and cooling process directly affect the final texture. We recommend letting them cool completely before enjoying.
- They keep for 2 to 3 days at room temperature, or about one month if stored in the freezer.
Coconut & Cacao Nib Cookies: An Easy Way to Make Healthy Snacks
We’d like to introduce you to these gentle, gluten-free cookies made with coconut flour and coconut oil. When our team tried them out, we found that the moist, crumbly texture paired perfectly with the crunch of the cacao nibs—making them an ideal companion for a cup of coffee or herbal tea. Since the process is as simple as mixing the ingredients and popping them in the oven, we highly recommend this recipe even for those new to baking.
Ingredients (Makes about 10–12 cookies)
- Coconut flour: 60g
- 60g coconut oil (if it’s solid, melt it over a warm water bath)
- 30g Lakanto (or your preferred sweetener)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 2–3 drops vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp cacao nibs
A quick tip: Coconut flour is highly absorbent, so the batter will firm up nicely even with just a small amount. If you’re planning to swap it out entirely for another flour (like almond flour), you’ll need to adjust the proportions.
How to Make (Simple Steps)
- Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them well, then add the melted coconut oil and mix. If your coconut oil is solid, please melt it beforehand in a water bath or the microwave (just be careful not to overheat it).
- Add the coconut flour, Lakanto, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract to the mixture, and fold them in gently with a rubber spatula. Finally, add the cacao nibs and incorporate them into the dough. Don't worry if the dough feels a bit crumbly or difficult to bring together.
- Using plastic wrap, divide the dough into 20–25g portions. Roll each piece into a ball between your palms, then gently press down to flatten them into shape. Arrange them on a baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 15–17 minutes. They’re ready when the surface is lightly golden and they don't crumble when touched gently. Once baked, transfer them—still on the parchment paper—to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before removing them; letting them cool helps that lovely crumbly texture set properly.
Tips, Variations, and Storage
Tips for Success (to avoid mistakes)
- Coconut flour is highly absorbent, so as long as the ratio of eggs to oil is right, the dough should stay relatively moist. If you find the dough difficult to work with, it’s often easier to add another egg or a little more oil rather than adding more flour.
- If the oil is too hot, it might start to cook the eggs, so it’s best to let the melted coconut oil cool to about body temperature before mixing it in.
- Overbaking can cause the cookies to become too dry. Keep a close eye on them and take them out as soon as the surface has set and they start to take on some color.
Variation Ideas
- Adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts is a great way to give them a richer flavor and extra texture.
- You can also enjoy a lovely change in aroma by adding just a touch of cinnamon or orange peel.
- For those with egg allergies, you can use "flax eggs" (ground flaxseeds soaked in water) as a substitute, though you may need to adjust the texture and proportions.
Storage and Shelf Life
- At room temperature: About 2 to 3 days in an airtight container (this may vary depending on the temperature and humidity).
- In the refrigerator: About 5 to 7 days. Since they can get a bit firm, letting them come back to room temperature before eating will help restore their texture.
- In the freezer: About 1 month in a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat them, they’ll taste delicious again if you let them thaw naturally or give them a quick toast.
A quick note on nutrition and ingredients
Coconut flour is gaining popularity as a high-fiber, low-carb flour that’s perfect for making satisfying treats. On the other hand, coconut oil is high in saturated fats, so we recommend adjusting your intake to fit your overall dietary balance. Cacao nibs are a favorite for their pleasant bitterness and aroma, as well as being packed with nutrients like magnesium and polyphenols. In our experience, these snacks are very satisfying despite their simple ingredients, making them a great choice for when you're feeling a bit hungry.
Summary
These gluten-free cookies, made with coconut flour and coconut oil, feature a lovely moist and crumbly texture with a satisfying crunch from cacao nibs. They are so simple to make and easy to adapt with different ingredients or toppings, so feel free to customize them to your heart's content! From our experience, we recommend letting them cool completely after baking to ensure the best possible texture.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.