Chocolate Chip Power Cookies

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These Chocolate Chip Power Cookies are high in protein and loaded with flavour. They make for the perfect afternoon snack or filling dessert! Can you guess the secret ingredient?

This recipe was adapted from one that was given to me by an awesome dietitian mentor and has made its way into the hearts of many taste testers. It’s crunchy, chewy and sweet all in one bite!

Previously on the blog under “Lentil Power Cookies”, the name gave away the secret too quickly. And I know what you are probably thinking: “lentils…in a cookie?” But give this recipe a chance because it will surprise your taste buds in the best way possible!

The Benefits of Lentils

If you haven’t baked with lentils before, these Chocolate Chip Power Cookies are the perfect introduction. They don’t have a strong taste so are a option when you want to add bulk and nutrients to a recipe. If you’re wondering what helps make these “power” cookies, 1/2 cup of cooked lentils provides a source of:

• Fibre
• Plant-based protein
• B vitamins
• Iron
• And other minerals like magnesium, phosphorus and zinc!

Baking with Lentils

When baking with lentils, you have a couple of options. 

1. Use canned lentils to minimize the cooking and prep time. All you have to do is drain and rinse the canned lentils before adding them to a recipe. You will likely have some lentils left over, depending on the volume of your can, but these can be used to double the batch or added to other recipes.
2. Cooking lentils yourself can save money as dried beans are typically cheaper than canned. You can also control how much you cook at one time, minimizing food waste if you don’t get through a full can. This method does add some additional time to accomodate for the cooking and cooling of the lentils. Just follow the package instructions to cook until tender.

Regardless of the method you choose, both will provide a soft and nutrient-dense legume that is perfect to bake with!

What You Need

The base of these Chocolate Chip Power Cookies is pretty straightforward and includes many household staples. We get into the fun stuff with the optional additions, which is customizable and up to your own preference. Here are the ingredients you will need:

• Canola oil
  • Or any mild oils like vegetable oil.
• Banana or plain Greek yogurt
  • My personal preference is using the Greek yogurt because it adds moisture and protein without a somewhat overpowering flavour like banana. However, I know most people have bananas on hand more often than extra Greek yogurt. Whatever you have will work great!
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Flour
  • I have used regular all purpose flour as well as a 1:1 gluten free flour. They both work well in this recipe.
• Brown sugar
• Green lentils
  • As mentioned, you can use canned or dried and then cooked lentils. This will likely depend on the time you have to spare as cooking and cooling them will require extra time.
• Oats
  • I have used both large flake and quick oats in these cookies. Quick oats is my personal preference because they make the cookie more consistent and less crumbly.
• Cinnamon
• Add-ins: sliced almonds, unsalted pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened) and chocolate chips! 
  • I have also added in a mixture of a variety of nuts and seeds like chopped walnuts, sunflower and chia seeds. 

These Chocolate Chip Power Cookies are a perfect snack to help you get back into the routine of Fall. Offering a source of plant-based protein, fibre and lots of other nutrients, they truly are the best way to help you “power” through those busy days. And with a variety of add-in options, you can customize them as much as you like! 

TIP: store them in the fridge or freezer to extend their shelf life. Pop them in the microwave for 10-12 seconds and enjoy the gooey chocolate chips and warm interior. You can even top them with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a satisfying, balanced and protein-rich snack!