Eating like a caveman but can’t seem to curb those sweet tooth cravings? It’s OK to indulge in a cookie (or two) every now and then, so long as you strive for a balanced diet the rest of the time. However, restrictions for the Paleo diet mean that baking ingredients like dairy products and flour are off-limits. But, thanks to some dedicated food bloggers committed to the cookie cause, it’s still possible to whip up a tasty treat that’s compatible with paleo living. From homemade Oreos to delicious pinwheels, we’ve rounded up the most mouth-watering paleo-friendly cookies. Ladies and gentlemen, fire up your ovens!
1. Double Chocolate Chunk Macadamia Nut Cookies
You’d be nuts not to make these chocolatey treats studded with delicious macadamias, which are a great source of fiber and protein. Make a batch and enjoy them with a fresh cup of coffee in lieu of milk. Photo and Recipe: Lexi / Lexi’s Clean Kitchen
2. Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookies
Put a delicious twist on this classic chipper, with extra-large chocolate chunks for maximum melty perfection. The dough will be moist and oily but letting it rest for a half an hour will make it easier to handle. And don’t forego the fine grain sea salt: It enhances the dark chocolate flavor! Photo: Mike / The Iron You; Recipe: Elana / Elana’s Pantry
3. Fig Pinwheels
In the mood to get figgy wit it? This recipe puts a whole new spin on Fig Newtons! To soften the fruit and add some sweetness, make sure to soak it in pomegranate juice for one hour before beginning the rest of the recipe. Photo and Recipe: Bill and Hayley / Primal Palate
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4. Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Think bacon doesn’t deserve to be in a dessert? Think again. The saltiness of the breakfast meat pairs perfectly with the sweet flavor of chopped dark chocolate, making this inventive recipe doubly delicious. Photo and Recipe: Gina / Running to the Kitchen
5. Crispy Coconut Butter Cookies
Get that buttery flavor sans dairy by using a coconut variety. Each of these cookies has 112 calories and only 2.3 grams of sugar, so you can indulge in a sweet treat without an overload of empty calories. Photo and Recipe: Chelsy / Mangia Blog
6. Sunflower Butter Cookies
With cute decorations on top, these treats are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Plus, each cookie packs four grams of protein, thanks to the nutritious sunflower seed butter. If you don’t like chocolate, substitute raisins as the flower’s center. Photo and Recipe: Stacey / Beauty and the Foodie
7. Homemade Oreos
America’s Favorite Cookie is actually vegan, but paleo? Unfortunately no. But this genius recipe is grain-free and still has that crunchy texture of real Oreos. If you’re feeling untraditional, use almond butter instead of the buttercream filling to make the sandwiches. Photo and Recipe: Adriana / Living Healthy with Chocolate
8. Primal Coconut Macaroons
You’re six ingredients away from these tropical treats, which are made mostly from egg whites and shredded coconut. Sneak in a half an hour workout while you wait for the dough to chill. Photo and Recipe: Allison / Allison Eats
9. “Oatmeal” Cream Pie Cookies with Marshmallow Fluff
Decadent fluff steals the show in this recipe that paleo-fies those Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies. Though these are definitely an indulgence, they’re better for you than the supermarket versions because they don’t contain any unnatural preservatives. Since this recipe only yields six sandwichs, plan to double up if you’re expecting guests. Photo and Recipe: Jenni / The Urban Poser
10. Apple Cinnamon Cookies
Soft and nutty, these treats are good to the core! Use a food processor to blend the ingredients together, and have a cookie scoop on hand to make consistent sized servings. If you have a serious sweet tooth, you can add honey or dates into the dough. Photo: Michelle / Nom Nom Paleo; Recipe: George / Civilized Caveman