When someone says “chickpeas,” you’re probably not thinking dessert. Chickpea salads? Sure. Hummus? Absolutely. But cookies? That might sound a little out there. Trust me, though—Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies are the game-changing dessert you didn’t know you needed.
These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with chocolatey goodness, and the best part? They’re healthy-ish. We’re talking gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and packed with protein, all while tasting like the cookies you grew up loving. Whether you’re making these for your family, a snack for yourself, or as a conversation starter at a potluck, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
What’s the Deal with Chickpeas in Cookies?
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are one of those versatile ingredients you can use for just about anything. They’re loaded with protein, fiber, and nutrients like folate, iron, and magnesium. While they’re typically used in savory dishes, chickpeas work surprisingly well in desserts too.
Here’s why: when blended, chickpeas have this creamy, buttery texture that mimics cookie dough perfectly. They also have a super mild flavor, so when you mix them with sweet ingredients like peanut butter, maple syrup, and chocolate chips, you’d never guess they’re there.
The result? A batch of chewy soft cookies overloaded with the goodness of chocolate yet healthy so that you can ignore your regular dessert.
Why These Cookies Are Different
Sure, there are plenty of cookie recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons:
1. Gluten-Free: No Flour, No Problem!
Chickpeas will replace the flour in this recipe, allowing the cookies to have a naturally gluten-free base that still provides the structural integrity you want. Thus, you will gain all the comfort of a normal cookie without any of the gluten. This recipe is for those who are really sensitive to gluten or just want to try something new: a real game-changer.
2. Protein-Packed: A Snack and Dessert in One
Designed to be protein-packed, these cookies are more than just a sweet treat. The combination of chickpeas and nut butter–peanut or almond–goes a long way toward getting some good protein in your body. They really do fuel you–the perfect snack to satisfy both thirsts: sweet and hungry.
3. Naturally Sweetened: All the Sweetness, None of the Guilt
We’re skipping the refined sugars that are usually found in traditional cookie recipes. Instead, we use maple syrup (or honey) to add a rich sweetness that feels just right. This more natural sweetener helps reduce the sugar rush, making these cookies a feel-good indulgence you can enjoy without any regrets.
4. No Weird Texture: Soft, Chewy, and Totally Cookie-Worthy
Let’s face it, some “healthy” cookies end up with a strange texture—think dry or too dense. But not these! Thanks to the chickpeas, they’re soft, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. You won’t find any cardboard-like cookies here. These are the real deal, and they’ll satisfy your craving for a classic cookie, minus the guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
The ingredient list for these cookies is short, simple, and filled with pantry staples. Here’s what you need:
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas: Drained and rinsed. This is your secret weapon.
- ½ cup peanut butter: Creamy is best, but any nut butter works. Almond butter or cashew butter are good options.
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey: Pick your favorite natural sweetener.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that classic cookie flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup chocolate chips: Go for dark or semi-sweet chips—whatever you like!
- A pinch of salt
Optional add-ins: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top, a handful of chopped nuts, or even some dried fruit if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step-by-Step Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Making Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies is as easy as pie—actually, easier. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Here’s how to do it:
1. Preheat Your Oven for Gluten-Free Chickpea Cookies
reheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect baking temperature for those perfectly golden cookies. As the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface, which will make removing your cookies from the tray a breeze once they’re done.
2. Blend the Chickpeas for a Flourless Cookie Dough
In a food processor, mix the chickpeas, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. You’re going for a creamy, dough-like consistency here.
Pro Tip: If the mixture seems too thick to blend, add a tablespoon or two of water to help it along.3. Fold in the Chocolate Chips for Protein-Packed Cookies
Shift the dough to a bowl and stir in the chocolate chips. This is where it starts looking (and smelling) like cookie dough.
4. Scoop and Flatten Your Healthy Dessert with Chickpeas
Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the baking sheet with a spoon or scoop. These cookies don’t spread much, so press them down lightly with the back of a spoon to give them that classic cookie shape.
5. Bake Your Easy Gluten-Free Chickpea Cookies
Cook the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. They’ll still be soft in the center when you take them out, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool.
6. Cool and Enjoy Your Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet. for about 5 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack. Or, if you’re like me, sneak one while it’s still warm and gooey.
Tips for the Best Cookies
Making chickpea cookies isn’t rocket science, but these tips will help you nail the recipe every time:
- Rinse the Chickpeas Well: This helps get rid of any lingering “bean” flavor.
- Blend Until Smooth: No one wants to bite into a chunk of chickpea. Take your time blending the dough until it’s completely creamy.
- Go Crazy with Mix-Ins: Chocolate chips are a must, but feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even coconut flakes.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer shelf life. They thaw beautifully.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
These cookies are the perfect balance of indulgence and healthiness. They’re rich and chocolatey enough to satisfy your sweet tooth but light enough that you can grab an extra without feeling guilty.
I’ve made these for everything from holiday parties to weeknight treats, and they’ve never failed to impress. Even better, even the skeptics—yes, the ones who wrinkle their noses at the idea of “healthy” desserts—end up asking for the recipe.
Even more amazing is the fact that this recipe can be used in so many ways. For instance, in case you want to make it vegan- just use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips. If you love almond butter instead of peanut butter, you can go for it. What is wonderful is that without losing any of the magic, one can easily adjust the recipe according to personal preference.
A Personal Story
The first time I made chickpea cookies, I didn’t tell anyone what was in them. I brought a batch to a family barbecue, and they disappeared in minutes. My brother-in-law, who has a serious sweet tooth, asked me what made them so soft. When I finally revealed the secret ingredient, he didn’t believe me. “No way there are beans in these!” he said.
Since then, these cookies have become a go-to dessert in my house. They’re perfect for when I want something sweet but don’t want to go overboard on sugar. Plus, they’re so easy to make—I can throw them together in under 30 minutes, start to finish.
FAQs
Are chickpea cookies good for you?
Yes! Chickpea cookies are a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. They’re filled with fiber and protein from plants and micronutrients as well. They are people because they use chickpeas as a base instead of flour, which is gluten-free and is even more healthy.
Is chickpea flour good for baking cookies?
Absolutely! In fact, chickpea flour is an excellent choice for baking, especially for those following gluten-free diets. It also gives a mild nutty taste to baked goods, but it can also create a soft, moist texture. Additionally, chickpea flour has lots of protein and fiber, making it a great option for boosting the nutritional value of cookies and other baked treats.
Why are my chickpea cookies green?
If your chickpea cookies turn green, it’s likely due to a reaction between the chickpeas and the baking soda or baking powder. Chickpeas contain chlorophyll, which, when combined with an alkaline ingredient like baking soda, can cause a greenish hue. While it might be surprising, it’s completely safe to eat.
Why are my chocolate chip cookies crunchy instead of soft?
If your chocolate chip cookies turn out crunchy instead of soft, it could be due to a few factors:
Overbaking: cook the cookies for too long can make them dry and crunchy. Make sure to check them around 10-12 minutes and take them out when the edges are lightly golden but the middle is still soft.
Too much flour: Using too much flour can lead to a drier texture. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately.
Why Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies Are a Must-Try
If you’re looking for a dessert that ticks all the boxes—delicious, healthy-ish, and easy to make—then this is it. In fact, Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies are proof that you don’t have to choose between eating healthy and enjoying dessert. Moreover, with these cookies, you can have both, so you don’t need to compromise on taste or nutrition.
These cookies are a winner whether it’s baking for your family, your friends, or just a treat for yourself. Moist and chewy-soft; they are chocolate gooey and completely satisfying. Not to mention the fact that they’re all secretly made of chickpeas. What a fun little bonus!
Grab a can of chickpeas, get some peanut butter, and pick your favorite chocolate chips. You will be only a few steps from discovering your new favorite cookie!
Happy baking!
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Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 22-25 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 cookies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Make soft, chewy chickpea chocolate chip cookies that are gluten-free, protein-packed, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas: Drained and rinsed. This is your secret weapon.
- ½ cup peanut butter: Creamy is best, but any nut butter works. Almond butter or cashew butter are good options.
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey: Pick your favorite natural sweetener.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that classic cookie flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup chocolate chips: Go for dark or semi-sweet chips—whatever you like!
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
reheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect baking temperature for those perfectly golden cookies. As the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface, which will make removing your cookies from the tray a breeze once they’re done.
In a food processor, mix the chickpeas, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. You’re going for a creamy, dough-like consistency here.
Pro Tip: If the mixture seems too thick to blend, add a tablespoon or two of water to help it along.Shift the dough to a bowl and stir in the chocolate chips. This is where it starts looking (and smelling) like cookie dough.
Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the baking sheet with a spoon or scoop. These cookies don’t spread much, so press them down lightly with the back of a spoon to give them that classic cookie shape.
Cook the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. They’ll still be soft in the center when you take them out, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet. for about 5 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack. Or, if you’re like me, sneak one while it’s still wa
Notes
These cookies combine the classic chocolate chip flavor with the wholesome addition of chickpeas, making them a nutritious and fun treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chickpea chocolate chip cookies, healthier cookie recipe, gluten-free cookies, chickpea cookies, dessert with chickpeas, healthy chocolate chip cookies
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