3 ingredient cookies are the perfect solution for wanting to make a quick, delicious and easy meal without the hassle of long ingredient lists or complicated steps. These holiday cookies usually only use three basic pantry items, which can vary based on the type of cookie you want to make.
Typically, the three ingredients include nut butter (such as peanut butter), sugar, and eggs. However, you can easily customize this base recipe by swapping in different ingredients to achieve different flavors and textures.
3 ingredient cookies are the ultimate quick and easy treat, ideal for anyone who wants a homemade dessert with minimal fuss.
These recipes are easy to customize by adding vanilla, allspice, or a pinch of salt. With just three ingredients, these cookies are easy, delicious, and versatile, allowing for a variety of flavors and textures to suit anyone’s taste.
Let’s take a look at how these healthy cookies work, some ingredient variations, and tips for making the most of them.
- Basic Peanut Butter Cookies
The most popular three-ingredient cookie is the peanut butter cookie.
For this, all you need is peanut butter, sugar and an egg. Simply combine one cup of peanut butter with one cup of sugar and one egg, then blend until smooth. Scoop the dough into small balls, place on a lined baking sheet and flatten each with a fork to create a classic crisscross pattern.
After about 10-12 minutes of baking at 350°F (175°C), you’ll have delicious, chewy peanut butter cookies.
These cookies are naturally gluten-free and perfect for people with gluten sensitivities. They’re also rich in protein thanks to the peanut butter, which makes them more filling than a simple sugar cookie.
- Banana Oat Cookies
Another variation that is especially popular for breakfast or healthy snacks is banana oat cookies.
For these, all you need are ripe bananas, rolled oats, and any mix-ins you like, like chocolate chips or dried fruit (this technically makes it three plus ingredients, but you can control the add-ins). Mash two ripe bananas in a bowl, stir in a cup of rolled oats, and fold in your add-ins.
Bake those delicious dough into balls at 350°F (175°C) for just only about 12-15 minutes. These cookies are soft, naturally sweet from bananas, and high in fiber because of the oats.
The beauty of banana oat cookies is that they are naturally vegetarian, dairy-free and refined-sugar-free, making them a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions. They’re perfect for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or post-workout snack.
- Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
For a classic, buttery cookie that’s low in carbs, try making almond flour shortbread cookies. All you need is almond flour, a sweetener (such as sugar or a low-carb alternative) and softened butter.
Start by combining one cup of almond flour with one-third of sugar or sugar substitute, and then add half a cup of softened butter. Mix until a dough forms, roll the dough into balls and press each one slightly to flatten. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, and you’ll have crispy, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth.
Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies are perfect for those on a low-carb or keto diet. Almond flour is naturally gluten-free and has a rich, nutty flavor, and delicious taste. Plus, these cookies keep well, so you can make a batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Tips for the perfect 3 ingredient cookies
Quality of Ingredients: Since these cookies use minimal ingredients, the quality of each ingredient shines through. Use natural, creamy peanut butter for peanut butter cookies and ripe bananas for banana oat cookies.
Add variety: Three-ingredient recipes are easy to adapt. Add vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
Adjust the texture: If your dough seems too wet or sticky, you can add some dry ingredients (like oats or almond flour) to balance it out.
3 ingredient cookies are not only easy, but incredibly versatile, allowing you to whip up a treat that fits your taste and dietary needs. Let’s make your favorite cookies and enjoy!
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