These cookies are not only delicious, but they are a great source of protein, fiber and vitamins. They make a great afternoon snack or quick breakfast cookie on the go.

Nutritional benefits of Apples: There is a reason why the saying goes “an apple a day keeps the doctor away". Apples are incredibly good for you, the phytonutrients and antioxidants in apples may help reduce the risk of many diseases such as cancers, hypertension and diabetes. Not only are apples rich in antioxidants they are also a very good source of fiber and vitamin C.

Nutritional benefits of Chickpeas: Chickpeas are an incredibly versatile food, not only are they used in salads or to make dips (such as hummus) they can also be used as a grain substitute in cookies! I know it may sound weird, but I promise they just add texture and nutrients, they don’t change the flavor. Chickpeas are a great alternative to use as they are high in protein, fiber and many vitamins and minerals. Chickpeas nutritional characteristics are associated with many health benefits ranging from weight management to blood sugar control.

Ingredients

For the cookies:

1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
8 dates (pitted)
1/3 cup apple sauce
1/4 cup oats
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
1 Tbsp cinnamon
2 Tbsp ground flax meal (optional)
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped apple

For the Maple Glaze:

2 Tbsp nut butter (I used peanut butter but you can use any nut butter of choice)
1 Tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place all ingredients, except apples, in blender or food processor, blend until smooth
Fold in chopped apples
Scoop evenly onto a lined cookie sheet (cookies won’t spread, so mash them down to the shape you prefer)
Bake for 25 minutes
While baking, melt nut butter in microwave and mix in maple syrup
Remove cookies from oven, once cooled, drizzle or spread glaze over cookies and enjoy!

Apple Cinnamon Cookies with a Maple PB Glaze