0-point Almond Joy Cookies

Ingredients (Makes 12 Cookies)

• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (ensure they are fully ripe for natural sweetness)
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (or cacao powder for a richer flavor)
• 12 raw almonds

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (to enhance sweetness)
• 1/4 tsp almond extract (to amplify the nutty flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

1. In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. The bananas serve as the natural sweetener and binding agent in this recipe.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the shredded coconut and cocoa powder to the mashed bananas. If using vanilla extract, almond extract, or salt, stir them in at this stage. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined, forming a sticky dough.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

1. Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and form 12 evenly sized balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
2. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or the back of a spoon to shape them into cookies.

Step 5: Add the Almonds

1. Press one raw almond gently into the center of each cookie, ensuring it is slightly embedded for stability during baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

1. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Perfect Almond Joy Cookies

1. Use Fully Ripe Bananas: The natural sweetness of ripe bananas is key to these cookies’ flavor. Look for bananas with brown spots.
2. Shredded Coconut: Opt for finely shredded, unsweetened coconut for the best texture and to avoid added sugars.
3. Customization: For an extra chocolatey twist, sprinkle the cookies with a dash of cocoa powder after baking.
4. Storage: Store  cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Why These Cookies Are 0-Point

1. Zero-Point Ingredients: Bananas, unsweetened  coconut, and cocoa powder are zero points on most WW plans. The almonds, when used in moderation, can fit within the 0-point threshold depending on your plan.
2. No Added Sugar: Sweetness comes naturally from ripe bananas and unsweetened coconut.
3. Nutrient-Dense: These cookies are packed with fiber, potassium, and healthy fats, making them a satisfying and health-conscious treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie; Makes 12 Cookies)

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Sodium: 5mg