how the cookie crumbles

We like to eat healthy. 

About two years ago we made a decision to TRY and eat mainly organic. I then proceeded, propelled by our new ideals, on a kitchen rampage ridding the shelves of all plastics, processed foods and even letting go of the good ole microwave.

For us it was a great decision, yet- not one that takes you down the easiest or cheapest path. Eating organic on a budget, takes precision, skill and planning. 

For any of you who might be considering this path, let me offer up some advice.  Like all things in life, I think the most important part of this resolve is balance. To not let it get overwhelming I strongly suggest starting small, and then picking and choosing based on what's most important to you and your family. Find what you can manage while still enjoying the journey, and what is most doable for your life, so you're not missing out on the beautiful moments, the important parts because you're too busy in the kitchen.

So, I thought I would start sharing some of my favorite go-to's. Recipes that are yummy and easy and healthy. Foods you can hand out with little to no complaining from your wee ones, plus they are all so, so good.  You may not even notice you're eating healthier.

This is my favorite cookie recipe that I was given from my amazing sister-in-law and it's become a staple in our house. The recipe is simple, I almost always have the ingredients on hand, and if not there's plenty of room to improvise with whatever is in your kitchen. They are soft and gooey, with the perfect fluffy texture.  Seriously- you will love them!

You will need:

3 1/2 cup oats

1 cup raisins

1 cup unsweetened coconut

1 cup cacao nibs or chocolate chips

1 3/4 cup flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup ghee/butter 

1 cup local honey

2 tsp good vanilla

Pre heat your oven to 350.

In a sauce pan over low heat add your butter, honey and vanilla.  Cook just a few minutes til softened and combined. In a large bowl throw in all your dry ingredients then pour your warm honey mixture over top and give it a big ole stir til it's nice and integrated. 

Refrigerate dough for at least 30 minutes, then spoon it out in nice rounded scoops and pop them in the oven for 12-15 minutes. When they are finished they should just be starting to bronze along the edges. 

This recipe yields about three dozen cookies, perfect for those of us with large families, or if you're just really hungry! You can always freeze any extra dough and save it for a day when you're craving something chocolatey and delicious.

Again this recipe is more of a guideline, so play around with it- go crazy and find what you love best! I love using cacao nibs. They add just the perfect touch of sweetness and a delightful crunch. This go around I was plum out of coconut so I added some chia seed, poppy seeds and golden flax seed and they were still amazing. I think adding dried cranberries and a big handful of walnuts would be so yummy for fall.

Pile them high on a plate, and go share with someone you love!