Banana Oatmeal Chip Cookies w/ Flax

These little gems are a cross between a cookie, muffin and scone.  They are packed with nutrients, fiber and protein~a perfect energy snack!  I used whole wheat flour, but you could use spelt or any non-wheat flour.  I like to eat two for breakfast with my tea or coffee.   They contain ground flax seeds.  I like to include ground flax seeds in my diet as much as possible~in baking recipes, on top of my cereal or oatmeal, in a smoothie and in pasta dishes.  Flax is full of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and phytochemicals called lignans.   Lignans may help prevent Type 2 diabetes, reduce peri-menopausal symptoms, and prevent breast cancer.  Flax seeds are very low in carbohydrates and help lower blood cholesterol.  Ground flax seeds are more easily digested compared to the whole seed.  If you don't have any in your pantry, pick some up at the supermarket as soon as possible!   This recipe is adapted from Oh She Glows.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup organic whole wheat pastry flour (or spelt, or soy flour)

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt, optional

1 Tbsp ground flax seed

1/4 cup organic soy milk

1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 Tbsp expeller pressed canola oil

1/2 banana

1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

1/4 tsp. salt (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment or a non-stick mat.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.  Next, add in the liquid ingredients and stir well.

3. In a small bowl, mash the banana. Stir in the mashed banana, chocolate chips, and walnuts into cookie mixture.

4. Spoon onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches apart.  Bake 12-15 minutes.  Cool on rack for 10 minutes before serving.  Makes 1 dozen.