cookies stacked on a plate

Maca Chocolate Chip Cookies

A gluten-free, vegan, refined sugar free chocolate chip cookie? Dreams do come true! Not to mention, this chocolate chip cookie recipe includes a touch of maca powder, which offers a host of nutritional benefits.

What is Maca?

Maca root, also known as Peruvian ginseng, is a plant native to South America, specifically in the high altitudes of Peru’s Andes mountains. It is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, meaning that it’s related to kale, broccoli, cabbage. In fact, the vegetable itself looks a bit like a golden turnip. Maca has been grown for the last 3000 years, in part to be used medicinally. It contains more than 20 amino acids, as well as the 8 essential amino acids. Some of the health benefits of maca include:

  • Increasing libido
  • Boosting energy and endurance
  • Increasing fertility
  • Aiding digestion due to higher levels of potassium (289 of maca = 16% of the RDI)
  • Improving blood pressure
  • Supporting healthy skin via protection from UV rays
  • Supplying an excellent source of iron, copper, and vitamin C

There is some research to support the claims above, although more needs to be conducted to solidify the findings.

cookies stacked on a plate

Maca and Thyroid Health

Upon learning about maca, I was hesitant to try it because it contains goitrogens. Goitrogens are compounds that prevent iodine from entering the thyroid gland. Iodine is one of the nutritional deficiencies to watch out for if you have hypothyroidism, as it’s needed to make thyroid hormones. So naturally, consumption of goitrogens is a concern for those with low thyroid function.

However, research shows that goitrogenic effects are related to levels of consumption. Overconsumption of these foods is going to be linked to greater the goitrogenic effect. For example, a 1928 research study found that rabbits who primarily ate cabbage had enlarged thyroid glands. This makes sense because cabbage was the staple of their diet.

cookies stacked on top of one another

Also, maca isn’t the only goitrogen containing food. Many of our beloved cruciferous vegetables have been deemed goitrogenic, such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, brussel sprouts. But have no fear – by sautéing, roasting, blanching, or steaming these veggies, you actually reduce the amount of goitrogens in them. So when in doubt, cook it out! You don’t necessarily have to avoid these foods. It is also recommended to increase iodine and selenium intake to reduce the effects of these compounds, and to also incorporate non-goitrogenic foods into your eating regimen. Variety is key, as every fruit and vegetable offers different nutritional value!

The final point I want to touch on is that all of our bodies are different. The type and amount of goitrogenic foods that you can is going to be dependent on what works for your unique body. Focus on discovering what works best for you.

cookies stacked on a plate

The Maca and Chocolate Combo

In addition to the nutrients, the nutty flavor truly compliments these chocolate chip cookies. My go-to way of consuming maca powder is a teaspoon added to my matcha latte – this is a stellar combo! However, these chocolate chip cookies have given me a new way to enjoy this superfood.

They are simple and quick to whip up, making the perfect dessert for your next date night, or when you just want a sweet (but healthy) treat. The texture of these cookies is drool worthy. For those who like a more gooey cookie, you’ll want to pull them out of the oven at the 8-minute mark. Let them bake for 10 minutes if you like a less gooey texture. And lastly, the flaky sea salt creates a perfect balance between sweet and salty.

If you make these cookies, be sure to leave a comment and rating for this recipe! Also, feel free to tag me on Instagram. I love seeing your creations, and getting your feedback. 

cookies stacked on a plate

Maca Chocolate Chip Cookies

Your traditional chocolate chip cookie taken to new levels with a touch of maca powder. Plus, they're gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar free!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cookies

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup gluten free flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons maca powder
  • 1 flax egg (see notes for instructions)
  • 1/3 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°.
  • Whisk flour, oats, salt, baking powder, and maca powder.
  • In a separate bowl, make your flax egg (see notes for more information).
  • Combine the sugar, maple syrup, almond butter, and olive oil with the flax egg.
  • Combine the dry ingredients and chocolate chips with the wet ingredients.
  • Scoop cookies into balls (I used a small cookie scoop), and flatten slightly using the back of a spatula.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes. 8 minutes for a more gooey texture.
  • Let cool. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and enjoy!

Notes

* To make a flax egg, combine 1 tbsp ground flax and 2.5 tbsp water. Let sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Keyword Chocolate, Cookies, Dairy free, Gluten free, Vegan

Enjoy!

 


© NIRVITA HEALTHAll images & content are copyright protected. Please do not use my images without prior permission. If you want to republish this recipe, please link back to this post for the recipe.