Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites

Try these easy and healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites made with chickpeas, natural peanut butter, and honey. This gluten-free, flourless dessert is packed with protein and fiber, making it a guilt-free treat for kids and adults. Ready in under 30 minutes, these no-flour cookie dough bites are perfect for a quick snack, healthy dessert, or post-workout energy boost. Customize with almond butter, dark chocolate chips, or vegan-friendly sweeteners for a delicious twist!

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups canned chickpeas, rinsed and thoroughly patted dry
• ½ cup + 2 tbsp natural peanut butter (or almond butter), at room temperature
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Blend the Dough:
   In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and baking powder.
   Blend until the mixture is smooth and thick, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Add the Chocolate Chips:
   Transfer the dough to a bowl and fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the Dough Bites:
   Moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking.
   Scoop and roll the dough into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
5. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Cool and Serve:
   Let the bites cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or store for later!

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Tips

• Dry the Chickpeas Well: Make sure to thoroughly dry the chickpeas with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
• Moisten Your Hands: Wetting your hands with water helps manage the sticky dough while shaping the bites.
• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the peanut butter is at room temperature for easier blending.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut Butter Options: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option.
• Add-Ins: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, a handful of chopped nuts, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
• Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate, white chocolate chips, or mini chocolate chips for a different texture and taste.

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FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas directly?

Yes, but make sure to rinse them thoroughly and dry them well to remove excess moisture.

How do I store these cookie dough bites?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Are these bites gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour.

Can I make these bites vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the honey with a vegan-friendly sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.

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Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy these bites as a healthy snack or dessert.
• Pair them with a glass of cold almond milk or a cup of hot coffee.
• Add them to a bowl of yogurt or smoothie for a protein-packed breakfast.
• Drizzle them with melted chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt for an extra indulgent treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with chickpeas and natural sweeteners, these bites are a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different nut butters, add-ins, and sweeteners.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and delicious way to sneak in some extra protein and fiber!