Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies- Vegan and Gluten Free

Dessert is my biggest vice. I must have it every day. Well, not really, you know. I want it and I can't seem to summon the self discipline to deny myself something sweet everyday. So, I've decided to try  new healthier options to replace those unhealthy, high calorie treats I've been indulging in and hopefully shed a few pounds. 

These cookies are super simple to make and will satisfy your cravings without making you feel heavy or guilty. I've used ingredients that I always have in my cupboards and even snuck in a little extra nutrients for extra credit. 

Often we get cravings for unhealthy foods because we're missing something in our diet. I always notice when my skin is looking a little lackluster or my nails get dry and brittle, that maybe my diet hasn't been so great and I need a little pick me up. 

I really don't enjoy taking multi-vitamins since they can be hard to digest so I include things like flaxseed meal or a mix of ground nuts and flaxseed or chia seeds in as many recipes as I can. 

For this recipe I used a Co-Q10 mix that includes flaxseed, almonds, brazil nuts and walnuts with added Co-enzyme Q10. This mix has selenium which helps your immune system function and protects cells and tissues from oxidation. Magnesium, good for your muscles, bones, teeth, nervous system function and metabolism. A little bit of iron, zinc, B vitamins, vitamin E and extra dietary fiber! 

I know, it sounds like a lot. Don't worry, you can make these cookies without it or substitute just about anything you have that's similar like chia seeds or flaxseed meal. I do recommend having something like this in your kitchen though. It's an easy way to replace vitamins and nutrients that you won't get if you're not a super healthy bean, nut, leafy green eater or take multi-vitamins. 

The recipe is as follows:

2 ripe bananas 
1 cup almond flour or coconut flour
1/2 cup chocolate chips (vegan if preferred)
2 tablespoons cocoa or raw organic cacao powder 
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal or similar (optional)

In a bowl, mash your bananas and mix in your almond flour, chocolate chips, cocoa powder and flaxseed meal. Preheat oven to 350. Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto parchment lined or lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake for 11 minutes. 
Enjoy!