Salted Tahini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine the health benefits of oatmeal and almond flour with the rich, nutty flavor of tahini. They're naturally gluten-free, lightly sweetened with maple syrup, and free of refined sugar. The tahini not only enhances the taste but also gives the cookies a unique texture. The result is a cookie that's both indulgent and nutritious—a perfect treat for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option that still satisfies those chocolate cravings.

Ingredients

• ½ cup tahini
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup almond flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup dark chocolate chunks
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for topping
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine tahini, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Add almond flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the dark chocolate chunks and chocolate chips.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Lightly sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Try adding chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Dried fruit: For extra sweetness, incorporate dried cranberries or raisins.
• Use other nut butters: Substitute the tahini with peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to enjoy that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, these cookies are already vegan as they contain no animal products, using maple syrup for sweetness instead of honey.

2. Do I need to chill the dough?

No, there’s no chilling required for this dough, making the process quicker and easier.

3. Can I use another sweetener besides maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or coconut sugar, although this may alter the flavor slightly.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, these cookies are naturally gluten-free due to the use of almond flour and oats, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivity.

5. Can I substitute tahini with peanut butter?

Yes, peanut butter can be used as a substitute for tahini, although it will change the flavor profile of the cookies.

6. How can I make these cookies more crispy?

To make the cookies crispier, you can increase the baking time by a minute or two, but be careful not to overbake them.

7. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, but the centers should still be slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

8. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to use rolled oats for the ideal chewy texture, but instant oats can be used in a pinch, though the cookies may be slightly softer.

9. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just place them on a baking sheet and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

10. Can I add chocolate chunks to the dough?

Absolutely! Chocolate chunks provide a gooey, melty center that pairs wonderfully with the oats and tahini.

Conclusion

These Salted Tahini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier cookie option that doesn't compromise on flavor. With a chewy texture, rich tahini flavor, and a touch of sweetness from the chocolate, they’re sure to become your new favorite treat. Easy to make, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened, these cookies offer a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love.