Is it possible to prepare an appealing sweet cookie that does not contain processed sugar? Apparently YES! Dates are a natural great sub for sugar, besides being famous for their high apport of good fats. But have you ever tried dates combine with oranges? Oh my, the perfect combo! The refreshing orange flavor balances perfectly the dates’ stodgy texture for a top notch snack, healthy and guilt free.

I love preparing these cookies because you toss the ingredients (just five) in the food processor, you shape and bake them, and you are done! Plus, the recipe calls for the orange peel and juice of one orange, so you won’t end up having half used ingredients around the kitchen.

These dates and orange cookies are very soft, they melt in your mouth but their softness is now and then interrupt by the crunchiness of the shredded orange peel, a beautiful surprise for the palate!

The Original italian recipe of these dates and orange cookies can be found in the italian blog “Dolci e coccole di Miki“. You know that when I find out a recipe I like I don’t mind translating it for you !!!

I am totally fond of these healthy cookies and overcoming any expectations, even my girls have agreed they are simple but YUMMY! Win, Win!

INGREDIENTS for about 10 cookies

2 oz. (60 gr.) pitted dates

3.4 fl. oz. (100 ml) orange juice (about the juice of one orange)

1.7 fl. oz. (50 ml) coconut oil

3.5 oz (100 gr.) whole wheat flour

1 tps. (8 gr.) baking powder

one orange peel

optional: cinnamon powder

DIRECTIONS

In the food processor mix the pitted dates, orange juice and coconut oil. Add the orange zest, flour and baking powder. If you don’t mind it, dust some cinnamon.

Mix until you get an even dough.  Shape your cookies with a spoon, don’t worry if they will feel a bit sticky. Arrange the shaped dough in a baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake at 365 F (180 C.) for about 20 minutes or until they start getting brownish.

Let cool off before removing from the pan. And enjoy!

LEARTN IT, MADE IT, LOVED IT!

TIPS:

• These cookies are absolutely perfect as after workout snack.
• If you feel like you don’t care much about the calories, melt some dark chocolate and soak half of each baked cookies… heaven!!!
• If stored in a cookies jar they last up to a week.
• If you like dates, don’t hesitate to try these gluten free dates and dark chocolate mini tars.  

I hope you don’t mind me having switched a little (and momentarily) the type of recipes I am sharing with you.. I promise I will still share traditional northern Italian savory and sweet dishes!

I love doing this!! Thank you all and have great week

MUCH LOVE,

SILVIA

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