Indulgent Chocolate Chunk Cherry Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Nothing says Valentine’s Day like chocolate…and dessert! Fitness and life are all about balance and it’s totally okay to indulge once in a while. I mean, a life without chocolate or cookies is a life I do not want to think about. Plus, there’s just something about sharing something sweet with someone you love (friend, partner, family member – anyone really!) This recipe is perfectly indulgent and a little healthier than your average cookie.

Want a sweet treat that has heart-healthy ingredients AND tastes amazing? Whether you are gluten-free or not, these cookies will make the perfect Valentine’s treat for you and your family, partner or just you to enjoy!

Chocolate ChUNK Cherry Cookies

• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour (can sub for whole-grain flour)
• 1/2 tsp Xanthan gum (omit if using regular whole-grain flour)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, softened
• 4 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup of chocolate chunk
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• Optional: add 1/2 cup shredded coconut or almonds for extra flavor!

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 and grease cookie sheet.
2. In a small bowl combine flour, Xanthan gum, oats, baking soda, salt and set aside.
3. In a larger bowl combine butter, cream cheese, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Then mix in the egg.
4. Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and dried cherries.
6. Place 1 inch balls of dough onto the cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
7. Let cool and enjoy!

Made these cookies for a party? Bachelor night or just to enjoy? Tag us @vasafitness. We would love to see you enjoying our recipes!