Orange Zest Oatmeal Cookies

Two things that make me happy right now include the first dropping leaves signaling autumn and orange zest in vegan cookies.

 

The hint of orange is a perfect compliment to rich chocolate; I can't believe I haven't tried this combination before! When I eat a sweet treat, I want it to be delicious but also nourishing and energizing. That's where my recipes like this orange zest oatmeal cookie comes in, and if you like oatmeal cookies with a fun twist, I highly recommend you try my version out!

Orange Zest Oatmeal Cookies

Yields 16-20 Cookies

 

Ingredients:

 

1-1/2 cup fine almond flour

1-1/2 cup gluten-free oats

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

1-1/2 teaspoon baking powder (corn-free)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup organic coconut sugar

1 chia or flax "egg" (3 TBSP water + 1 TBSP seeds)

1/4 cup + 2 TBSP avocado oil

1/4 cup almond butter

1/2 medium orange zest

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup raisins

 

nondairy chocolate chips, melted (optional)

Directions:

 

1. Stir all dry ingredients in a bowl; set aside.

2. Make chia or flax egg by whisking together and letting sit and "gel" for several minutes. Whisk all wet ingredients together, including coconut sugar.

3. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet, and chill in the freezer as you preheat the oven.

4. Turn the oven on to 350F, and line two baking trays with silicone baking mats.

5. Scoop 1-1/2 to 2 TBSP-sized mounds onto the cookie sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set; let cool on a wire rack.

6. Garnish with melted nondairy chocolate, additional orange zest and sea salt if desired.