Healthy Snowball Cookies |

One of my absolute favorite things in the entire holistic chef world is when a reader makes a request for me to 'healthify' something they adore. The reason is two-fold.
- It is a sign of trust that I can deliver on said request. That makes me feel awesome.
- You guys always have the BEST ideas! Dishes I would never think of on my own.
I almost missed the instagram comment on my Chewy Ginger Cookies that requested a healthier version of Polvorones, also know as Snowball cookies or Wedding Cookies. Oh, how glad I am that I scrolled down! I was happy to oblige this sweet reader, particularly because these cookies are a favorite of my own. The hallmark of this traditional Spanish shortbread is its dense and crumbly texture, with a creamy buttery finish from nuts and well, butter. However, in my recipe musings, I decided there was a way to achieve said product without nearly as much butter or sugar as the original.
Not only did I reduce the amounts, I substituted refined sugar for maple sugar, which is less processed and contains more nutrients, and I did a mixture of coconut oil and grass-fed butter. These high-quality saturated fats are your body's friend, when enjoyed in moderation. I also swapped spelt flour for refined white flour, which is often easier to digest and contains more fiber, vitamins and minerals. Spelt does contain gluten, so if you're gluten-free, substitute a GF all-purpose blend.
The result? Let's just say that the reader who suggested these deserves a lifetime supply. And a pony.
Actually I'll say more than that...these have become my top 2 favorite cookies EVER, rivaling my Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies. When no-chocolate is even a contender in the ring with chocolate, you know you have something special.
The only noticeable difference from the original is a slightly darker color from spelt flour, and a lack of powdered sugar coating. I dusted mine with arrowroot starch for effect, but they truly don't need a single thing. If you're still hung up on the no-chocolate thing, you could definitely dust on some cocoa powder or drizzle some melted chocolate. Shockingly, I decided against both.
I hope you'll give these a try as we head into holiday cookie season, and give a little prayer of thanks to the gal who requested them!
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