I’ve been in a bit of a reading rut as of late. I’m not sure if it’s the come down from Inherent Vice, or having read only serious books lately but I’ve been stalling on starting a new book. I’m pretty used to taking some time from adult literature to read a good YA about vampires or werewolves… but I’ve been trying to cut down. So instead, I’ve mostly just been sitting around watching Heroes and Nashville on Netflix. Don’t judge, I just love Hayden.

So! I whipped up a batch of these little gems. They are super healthy and packed with goodness. These are a perfect breakfast cookie because they’re sweet enough to feel like a treat in the morning but filled with enough fiber and protein to get you through a tough morning meeting. PLUS they pack an extra mighty punch with a secret ingredient- COFFEE. Yippee!

JAVA JOLT Breakfast Cookies

1 very ripe banana

2 tbsp coconut oil

1/2 cup peanut butter

5 tbsp maple syrup (or agave, or honey)

3 tbsp cocoa powder

1 cup oats

1 cup of your favorite gf flour (I used 1/2 cup tigernut flour and 1/2 coconut flour)

1.5 tbsp ground flax

5 tbsp warm water

a pinch of salt

1/4 cup of very very strongly brewed espresso or coffee (cooled)

very strongly brewed espresso or coffee (cooled) 1/2 cup dark chocolate or carob chips

1/2 cup of any nuts (I used almonds and walnuts)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350.

In a small cup or bowl add the flax and water together. Stir vigorously and let sit for about 5 minutes.

In your stand mixer or with your hand mixer beat the banana, coconut oil, peanut butter, maple syrup and cocoa powder until it is smooth and creamy. Add the coffee and the flax mixture, blend again until smooth.

In another mixing bowl combine the oats, flour and salt. Stir to combine. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, blending steadily as you go. The batter should be quite thick and will pull away from the sides.

Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts. Scoop even spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined or greased cookie sheet. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, rotating the tray once throughout.

This dough is gluten free, vegan and can be eaten raw. In fact it would be super delicious added to coconut icecream or dipped in chocolate to make cookie dough treats! Now that sounds like a good way to start your morning!