Healthy chocolate chip cookies that are soft, chewy, and made with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. These cookies have just the right amount of sweetness, packed with melty chocolate chips and a touch of natural goodness from oats or whole wheat flour, depending on your preference.
I love making these cookies when I want a treat that doesn’t leave me feeling too guilty. They’re perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up but also want something that pairs well with a glass of milk or your favorite cup of tea. Plus, they come together quickly, which is great when you have a sweet craving.
One tip I’ve learned is to chill the dough before baking—it helps the cookies hold their shape and keeps them nice and chewy. I usually make a big batch and share them with friends and family because they always ask for more once they try these healthier versions of a classic favorite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Flour: This is the base for a tender, moist cookie. For a different feel, whole wheat flour works too but expect a denser texture.
Coconut Flour: Adds fiber and helps absorb moisture. If you don’t have it, you can increase almond flour slightly but expect a change in texture.
Coconut Oil: I love it for a subtle, healthy fat. Unsweetened applesauce is a great lower-fat swap that keeps cookies moist.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Natural sweeteners that keep these cookies from being too heavy. Use what you like or have on hand.
Egg or Flax Egg: Egg binds everything together. For a vegan option, flax eggs work well and add extra fiber.
Dark Chocolate Chips: I prefer at least 70% cacao for antioxidants and less sugar. You can also try cacao nibs for crunch and less sweetness.
How Do I Get Chewy and Soft Healthy Cookies?
The key to the chewy texture starts with the mix of almond and coconut flours, along with the right liquids. Here are some tips:
- Don’t overmix the dough – stir just until everything combines.
- Gently flatten the dough balls before baking so they spread evenly.
- Watch your bake time carefully; 10-12 minutes usually gives a soft, chewy center.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them finish setting without getting too hard.
- For extra chewiness, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help them stay thicker and moist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat, sturdy one helps cookies bake evenly without burning.
- Parchment paper – keeps cookies from sticking and makes cleanup super easy.
- Mixing bowls (two) – one for dry ingredients, one for wet, so mixing is simple and tidy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – accurate measuring keeps cookies consistent every time.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – helps make evenly sized cookies for uniform baking.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a sweeter or tangy twist.
- Add ½ cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and healthy fats.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Try peanut butter chips or sunflower seeds for an unexpected but tasty change.
How to Make Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour (or whole wheat flour for a different texture)
- ¼ cup coconut flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted (or unsweetened applesauce for less fat)
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan option: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, mixed and set for 5 minutes)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cacao for health benefits)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes for cooling the cookies on the baking sheet, so plan for roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. If you choose to chill the dough for firmer cookies, add 30 minutes more.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Mixing Bowls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to stop the cookies from sticking and help with easy cleanup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and sea salt until they are well combined and airy.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, stir the melted coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), egg (or prepared flax egg), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
4. Form the Cookie Dough:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until a dough forms, being careful not to overmix. Then fold in the dark chocolate chips evenly through the dough.
5. Shape and Bake the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded scoops of dough about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Gently press each scoop down slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to help them spread evenly while baking.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
6. Cooling and Serving:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to finish setting, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with your favorite drink!
Can I Use a Different Flour Instead of Almond Flour?
Yes! Whole wheat flour is a great substitute and will give the cookies a heartier texture. Just keep in mind the cookies might be a bit denser. If you use regular all-purpose flour, the texture will change and may require adjusting baking time.
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, set for 5 minutes) and use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps the cookies moist and chewy while staying plant-based.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can add delicious variety. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips before baking for best results.
