Chia Oatmeal Cookies

Chia Oatmeal Cookies – Gluten Free

By Susan Arruda

These cookies can be made to suit individual taste preferences; as a plain classic oatmeal type cookie on its own, or add chocolate chips, raisins, nuts, or combination thereof, if desired.

YIELD: 36

INGREDIENTS:

3 tbsp. ground chia seeds
1/2 cup boiling water
1/4 cup coconut water
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup cane sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups rolled oats (Use uncontaminated oats for Gluten Free)
1 cup brown rice flour
1/4 cup sorghum flour
1 tbsp. chia seeds
1/2 tsp. baking soda

OPTIONAL: ¾ cup chocolate chips, raisins, nuts, or combination

PREPARATION:

  • Place the chia seeds in the boiling water and set aside.
  • Whip the butter using a blender and add the sugars and blend to combine thoroughly. Add the eggs and vanilla and whip together. 
  • Add the coconut water to the chia seeds mixture and mix using a fork or hand mixer to break apart clumps. 
  • Add the chia mixture to the butter mixture and blend thoroughly to combine.
  • Add all the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir to combine using a large mixing spoon.
  • Bake in a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.

CHIA BENEFITS: Chia seeds have been used for thousands of years – it was once a staple food source among the Aztecs, Incas, and Mayans, who used it to increase strength and maintain stamina during long journeys.
Chia is similar in nutrition to another better known superfood: flaxseed.  Both are revered as exceptional plant-based sources of important omega 3 fatty acids, which – aside from balancing the ratio of EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids) within our naturally high omega 6 diet – also support increased mental function, lowered inflammation, cardiovascular health, and immune system support. One distinct advantage that chia has over flax is an abundance of antioxidants that are not only beneficial, but also help all its healthy fats from oxidizing.  Beyond being a source of easily digestible protein, chia contains a wealth of important minerals, especially calcium and iron. Chia seeds are also a tremendous source of fiber.