Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies
If you’re someone who loves indulging in sweet treats but also wants to keep things a bit healthier, then these Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies are the perfect solution! These little gems are not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber thanks to the chickpeas. Yes, you read that right! Chickpeas in cookies! This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic chocolate cookie, and it will have your friends and family guessing about the secret ingredient. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on this scrumptious journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
When it comes to baking, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that offer the best of both worlds: something that satisfies my sweet tooth while still being nutritious. These Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies deliver just that! They are incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be whipped up in no time. Plus, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate is simply irresistible! The best part? You can enjoy them guilt-free while knowing that they are loaded with wholesome ingredients.
What We’re Using
Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make these cookies so special:
- 1 (15-oz) can garbanzo beans – The star ingredient that adds protein and fiber.
- 4 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder – For that rich chocolate flavor.
- ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter – Gives the cookies a delightful nuttiness and chewiness.
- ½ cup pure maple syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) – Adds a hint of warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- ½ tsp sea salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
- ½ cup chocolate chips – Because you can never have too much chocolate!
What’s in the Gear List
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need:
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
- Food processor – This will help create a smooth batter from the chickpeas.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key for perfect cookies.
- Baking sheet – To bake your cookies on.
- Parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Spatula – For mixing and transferring the cookie dough.
Mastering Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies: How-To
Now that we have our ingredients and tools ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chickpeas
Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove any excess sodium and ensure a clean flavor.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, cocoa powder, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract (if using), baking powder, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You might need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Once your batter is smooth, transfer it to a mixing bowl and fold in the chocolate chips. This adds delightful pockets of melted chocolate in each bite.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread a little while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be set but still soft in the center.
Step 7: Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Healthier Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize this recipe, here are some healthier substitutions you might consider:
- Nut butters: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Sweeteners: Use agave syrup or honey instead of maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Cocoa powder: Opt for carob powder for a caffeine-free version.
- Chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate chips or dairy-free chocolate chips for a healthier alternative.
Insider Tips
To ensure your Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure to blend the chickpeas well; the smoother the batter, the better the texture of the cookies.
- Don’t overbake! The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
- For an extra chocolatey experience, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Let the cookies cool completely before storing them to maintain their chewy texture.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
These cookies can be stored and enjoyed in several ways:
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but it can happen!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They also keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- To freeze: Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat: Simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Questions People Ask
Can I taste the chickpeas in these cookies?
Not at all! The flavor of the chickpeas is completely masked by the chocolate and peanut butter, making them taste just like traditional cookies.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Since they are made with chickpeas instead of traditional flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe, just be sure to drain and rinse them well before using.
What should I do if the dough is too thick?
If your cookie dough seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk to help loosen it up. Just be careful not to add too much!
Our Most-Loved Recipes
If you enjoyed these Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies, you might love these other recipes too:
Hungry for More?
If you’re craving more delicious recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious, stay tuned! There’s always something new and exciting coming your way. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, there’s a world of flavors to explore, and I can’t wait to share more with you.
So, grab your ingredients, get mixing, and indulge in these Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies! You won’t regret it!
Peanut Butter Double Chocolate Chickpea Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
- Step 2: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
- Step 3: In a food processor, blend chickpeas, cocoa powder, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract (if using), baking powder, and sea salt until smooth.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in the chocolate chips.
- Step 5: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between cookies.
- Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes. Cookies should be set but soft in the center.
- Step 7: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Blend chickpeas well for a smooth batter.
- Don't overbake; cookies firm up as they cool.
- For extra chocolatey cookies, sprinkle more chips on top before baking.
