Almond flour is known for its versatility and numerous health benefits. It’s a popular choice among those with gluten intolerance or allergies, as well as individuals observing low-carb, keto, or paleo diets. Beyond its health advantages, almond flour is esteemed for its rich, nutty flavor profile.
Almond flour is also rich in nutrition, boasting high levels of vitamin E and antioxidants. It also serves as a source of essential minerals such as manganese, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, calcium and iron.
Benefits of Almond Flour
Whole foods like almonds are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that offer many health benefits. Firstly, almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to improve cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol” levels. By lowering LDL cholesterol, almonds help prevent the buildup of plaque in arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Despite being calorie-dense, almonds can aid in weight management when consumed in moderation. The combination of protein, fiber and healthy fats in almonds helps keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods. This can prevent overeating and help control calorie intake.
Moreover, almonds have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a slower and steadier increase in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals looking to manage blood sugar levels, including those with diabetes or insulin resistance.
Almonds are also rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress contributes to various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Photo by Olga Kudriavtseva
Why Choose Almond Flour Over Wheat Flour?
One compelling reason to opt for almond flour over wheat flour is its lower carbohydrate content. This characteristic makes almond flour appealing to people following a ketogenic (keto) diet. Beyond its keto-friendly profile, almond flour is also gluten-free, unlike wheat flour, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
How to Make Almond Flour Cookies
While almonds are commonly baked into cakes, this time, I love using almond flour to make some almond flour cookies (like these traditional Sicilian almond cookies with are dairy and gluten free). Below you will find a simple recipe for almond cookies – with a serving range between 12-15, they are a wholesome treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 200g almond flour
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 60ml coconut oil, melted
- 60ml maple syrup
- 90g chocolate chips
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 180 °C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, salt and baking soda, and then add melted coconut oil and maple syrup. Mix the ingredients until they are blended well and form a batter.
Gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter and distribute them evenly. Using a tablespoon cookie scoop, place scoops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten them gently with your hands. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until they become a light brown colour.
Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving. These almond flour cookies are sure to delight your taste buds with their irresistible flavour and satisfying texture.
