Sometimes A Girl Just Needs A Cookie

No-Bake Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies




 A chocolate one at that.  And yesterday was just one of those days. It was not a bad day by any means. Actually, it was a wonderful day and so why not top off a wonderful day with a cookie?  For those of you who don't know me, I really do eat as I say on my blog. Healthy, whole, organic foods with very little (for lack of a better word) junk. Also, I realized a few years ago that my belly and my immune system like me so much better when I stay away from gluten; so I usually eat as gluten-free and low-carb as possible. Now with all that being said, I am sure you are wondering how a cookie can possibly fit anywhere in these guidelines? Well, my aunt sent me a recipe for one that meets most of the requirements and other than the sugar, it is pretty good for you.  These No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies are super easy to make, easy to double for a larger quanity and are gluten-free. I often mix in some chopped walnuts and ground flax for a little extra protein and Omega-3's but you can go with what you have on-hand or leave them just as they are.

Here is a list of what you will need.

1 cup sugar (I use evaporated cane juice organic sugar)
1/4 cup organic 1% milk
1/4 cup all natural organic peanut butter (I like smooth but crunchy is good too)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 stick organic butter
1 tbs organic cocoa
1 1/2 cups gluten-free organic rolled quick-cook oats (Bob's Red Mill)

In a saucepan heat the sugar, milk, vanilla, butter and cocoa to a boil. Let this boil for one minute. Remove from heat and stir in the oats, peanut butter and any other mix-ins you are adding.

Scoop mixture onto wax paper or foil and let cool. Yields 16 cookies.