Chocolate Chip Chickpea Cookies

These cookies are incredibly soft, fudgy, and packed with flavor—you’d never guess they contain chickpeas! Not only are they naturally sweetened and free from refined sugar, but they’re also high in protein, making them a delicious and nutritious treat. Perfect for a guilt-free dessert, snack, or even breakfast!

✨ Inspired by: @theconsciousplantkitchen

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed well
• 3/4 cup organic creamy peanut butter (can substitute almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter)
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (adds natural sweetness and moisture)
• 1/4 cup oat flour (helps with texture and structure)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for extra depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (to help the cookies rise slightly)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (balances the sweetness)
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or more, if you love extra chocolate!)
• Optional: Flaky sea salt for topping (enhances the flavors beautifully)

Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Blend the Dough:

• In a food processor, blend the chickpeas, peanut butter, maple syrup, oat flour, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth.
• Scrape down the sides of the processor to make sure everything is well incorporated.

3️⃣ Add the Chocolate Chips:

• Transfer the dough to a bowl and gently fold in the chocolate chips.
• The dough will be sticky, but don’t worry—that’s what makes these cookies so soft and fudgy!

4️⃣ Shape the Cookies:

• Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into small balls (about 1 ½ tablespoons each).
• If the dough sticks to your hands, lightly wet them or wear meal prep gloves.
• Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

5️⃣ Flatten & Bake:

• Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to gently flatten each ball into a round cookie shape.
• Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

6️⃣ Cool & Enjoy:

• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
• If using, sprinkle with flaky salt while they’re still warm for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
• Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days!

Pro Tips:
✔️ For a crispier cookie, bake a few extra minutes.
✔️ Want extra fudginess? Underbake them slightly and let them cool before enjoying.
✔️ These cookies freeze well! Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

✨ This recipe makes about 8 cookies—double it if you want more!

Enjoy your guilt-free indulgence! ❤️