Energy Cookies (Gluten Free)

We really wanted a healthier cookie recipe, something besides an old standby apple or boring string cheese to grab when we're looking for a snack. These have been tested and retested, and finally, victory! They handily beat the regular cookies, ginger and molasses, at a recent gathering with friends. That's saying something! With a good combo of nuts, dried fruit, oats, coconut, and honey, these might be great before or after your next bout with exercise this January.

Energy Cookies

1 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons iodized salt
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup coconut oil (melted and cooled)
2 large eggs (beaten)
2 teaspoons vanilla
3/4 cup raisins (golden and regular)
1/3 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons rum
1 cup grated dried coconut
2 tablespoons crystallized ginger (finely diced)
1 cup raw walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together the oats, almond flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Set aside. Combine the honey, coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla. Microwave the raisins, cranberries, and rum for one minute, let them cool a bit, microwave for one more minute, and set aside. Combine wet and dry ingredients and then add the fruit and rum mixture, coconut, ginger, and walnuts. Shape into large, flat cookies and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until edges are lightly browned.