30 Healthy and Easy Cookie Recipes for Kids: No-Sugar and Gluten-Free Ideas

Who doesn’t love cookies? These delightful treats are a universal favorite, and even healthier versions can bring just as much joy. For parents, the challenge is finding snacks that satisfy their children’s sweet tooth while ensuring every bite is packed with nutrition.

This guide unveils 30 cookie recipes that are not only healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these recipes are perfect for kids of all ages. From no-sugar options to gluten-free delights, there's something here to suit every need. Whether you're looking for healthy cookie recipes for kids, no-sugar cookies, or gluten-free ideas to make cookies, this collection has you covered.

 

Why Choose Healthy Cookies for Kids?

Healthy cookies aren’t just about skipping the junk—they’re about supporting your child’s growth and energy needs. Instead of refined sugars and processed ingredients, these recipes prioritize whole foods like oats, fruits, nuts, and natural sweeteners. These treats not only taste great but also help fuel active days and growing minds.

From low-calorie cookies to healthy no-bake cookies and protein cookies, the possibilities are endless. By incorporating nutritious alternatives, these recipes turn cookies into more than just a snack—they become a source of nourishment and joy.

 

30 Healthy Cookies for Kids and Toddlers

1. Oatmeal Banana Cookies

 

Description: A chewy cookie made with just two wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup rolled oats

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Gradually add the rolled oats, stirring until fully combined. The mixture should hold together but remain slightly sticky.
4. Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture and place it onto the baking sheet, flattening each dollop slightly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool completely before serving.

 

2. Almond Butter Cookies

Description: Nutty and rich, these cookies are naturally gluten-free.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond butter
• 1 egg (or flax egg: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water)
• 1/4 cup honey

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the egg (or flax egg) until frothy.
3. Add almond butter and honey to the bowl, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly browned. Allow them to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

 

3. No-Bake Energy Bites

Description: A quick and wholesome snack that requires no baking.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey

Directions:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey.
2. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture sticks together.
3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands.
4. Repeat with the remaining mixture and place the balls on a tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the bites to firm up before serving.

For a ready to made option Try Kaidoo Kids Choco Comets

 

4. Sweet Potato Cookies

Description: Soft, nutrient-packed cookies with a hint of natural sweetness.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed sweet potato
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, almond flour, and maple syrup. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto the baking sheet and gently flatten with the back of a spoon.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool before serving.

 

5. Coconut Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

Description: A soft and chewy gluten-free twist on the classic.
Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
3. Gradually add the coconut flour to the eggs, stirring to combine. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops are set and golden. Cool before serving.

 

6. Apple Oats Cookies

Description: A warm and fruity treat perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup applesauce
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, oats, and cinnamon. Stir until the oats are fully coated.
3. Scoop the mixture onto the baking sheet using a spoon, shaping it into small rounds.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges start to crisp. Cool before enjoying.

 

7. Pumpkin Cookies

Description: A fall-inspired cookie bursting with pumpkin flavor.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, almond flour, and maple syrup until a smooth dough forms.
3. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop dollops of dough onto the baking sheet. Flatten slightly.
4. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cookies are firm to the touch. Let them cool completely before serving.
   
   

8. Carrot Cake Cookies

Description: A delightful spin on the classic carrot cake, transformed into healthy cookies.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, almond flour, raisins, and cinnamon. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a round cookie shape with your hands. Place it on the baking sheet.
4. Repeat with the remaining dough, spacing the cookies about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool completely before removing them from the sheet.

 

9. Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Description: Soft and nutty cookies with a hint of banana sweetness.
Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup almond flour

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth, then add the peanut butter and almond flour. Stir until a thick dough forms.
3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the baking sheet and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are firm and lightly golden. Let cool before serving.

 

10. Coconut Macaroons

Description: Chewy and lightly sweetened, these macaroons are made without refined sugar.
Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
• 2 egg whites
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the maple syrup, whisking continuously.
3. Gently fold in the shredded coconut until fully coated.
4. Scoop small mounds of the mixture onto the baking sheet, using your hands to shape them into domes.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.

 

11. Tahini Cookies

Description: A nutty, slightly savory cookie that's packed with sesame goodness.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup almond flour

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine tahini, honey, and almond flour, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
3. Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

 

12. Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies

Description: A clever way to sneak veggies into a chocolatey treat.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini and almond flour, mixing until evenly blended. Fold in the chocolate chips.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set. Let cool before enjoying.

 

13. Cashew Butter Cookies

Description: Creamy and rich, these cookies melt in your mouth.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup cashew butter
• 1 egg (or flax egg)
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg until light and fluffy. Add cashew butter and coconut sugar, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet. Flatten each ball with a fork to create a pattern.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set and lightly golden. Let cool completely.

 

14. Chia Seed Lemon Cookies

Description: A zesty, refreshing cookie packed with omega-3s.
Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup almond flour

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Soak chia seeds in lemon juice for 5 minutes until they form a gel-like consistency.
3. In a bowl, combine the chia seed mixture with almond flour, stirring until fully incorporated.
4. Scoop out the dough and shape into small rounds. Place them on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are firm. Allow to cool completely before serving.
   
   

15. Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Description: Warm and cozy cookies infused with the flavors of fall.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, oat flour, pumpkin spice, and maple syrup. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet, flattening them slightly.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cookies are firm and lightly golden. Let them cool completely before enjoying.

 

16. Apple Cinnamon Cookies

Description: Soft, chewy cookies with natural sweetness from apples.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated apple (squeeze to remove excess moisture)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine grated apple, almond flour, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Scoop out small portions of dough and shape them into cookies on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and set. Cool before serving.

 

17. Almond Joy Cookies

Description: A healthy twist on the classic candy bar with coconut, almond, and chocolate flavors.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp honey

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, almond butter, cocoa powder, and honey until a sticky dough forms.
3. Scoop out small portions, roll into balls, and flatten slightly into cookie shapes.
4. Place the cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow them to cool before enjoying.

 

18. Sesame Honey Cookies

Description: Sweet and nutty cookies with a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup almond flour

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over low heat until fragrant, then let them cool.
3. In a bowl, combine sesame seeds, honey, and almond flour to form a sticky dough.
4. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet. Flatten gently with a fork.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Let cool completely before serving.

 

19. Avocado Chocolate Cookies

Description: Creamy avocado pairs with rich cocoa for a decadent yet healthy treat.
Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the avocado in a bowl until smooth, then mix in cocoa powder and coconut sugar until a thick dough forms.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. Let cool before serving.

 

20. Blueberry Sweet Cookies

Description: Soft, sweet cookies with juicy blueberries.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. Mix almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt. Add syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla.
3. Fold in blueberries. Form dough into balls, flatten, and place on the sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. Cool and enjoy!

 

21. Strawberry Almond Cookies

Description: Fruity and nutty cookies that kids will adore.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mashed strawberries
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 2 tbsp coconut flour

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the strawberries in a bowl, then mix in almond flour and coconut flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, flatten slightly, and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set. Allow to cool before enjoying.

 

22. Matcha Coconut Cookies

Description: A vibrant green cookie with a subtle, earthy flavor.
Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, combine coconut flour, matcha powder, and maple syrup until dough-like.
3. Form small round cookies and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges start to crisp. Cool before serving.

 

23. Lemon Coconut Cookies

Description: Zesty and refreshing cookies with a hint of coconut.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, shredded coconut, and lemon zest. Stir to mix evenly.
3. Add maple syrup and stir until the dough holds together.
4. Roll the dough into small balls, place them on the baking sheet, and flatten slightly with your hand.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

 

24. Raisin Oatmeal Cookies

Description: Chewy oatmeal cookies naturally sweetened with raisins.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup mashed banana
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Mix in rolled oats, raisins, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and place them on the baking sheet. Flatten gently with the back of a spoon.
4. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are golden. Cool before enjoying.

 

25. Fig Almond Cookies

Description: Chewy cookies with a natural fig sweetness and nutty base.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried figs (soaked and chopped)
• 1 cup almond meal
• 1/4 cup cassava flour
• 2 tbsp almond butter
• 1 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. Mix almond meal, cassava flour, cinnamon, and salt. Combine with almond butter, oil, and figs to form dough.
3. Shape into discs, place on the sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes. Cool before serving.

 

26. Choco-Date Bites

Description: Naturally sweetened cookies with a rich chocolatey taste.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup almond flour

Directions:

1. Blend the dates in a food processor until a sticky paste forms.
2. Add cocoa powder and almond flour, blending until the mixture is uniform and forms a dough.
3. Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool before serving.

 

27. Sunflower Seed Cookies

Description: Nut-free cookies perfect for kids with allergies.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup oat flour

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix sunflower seed butter and maple syrup until smooth. Add oat flour and stir to form a soft dough.
3. Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool before serving.

 

28. Cranberry Pistachio Cookies

Description: Nutty and fruity cookies with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
• 1/2 cup ground pistachios
• 1/2 cup tapioca starch
• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray.
2. Mix pistachios, tapioca starch, and salt in a bowl. Add oil, vanilla, and syrup; combine into dough.
3. Fold in cranberries, shape into discs, and place on the tray.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, cool, and enjoy.
   
   

29. Orange Almond Cookies

Description: Bright citrus flavor meets the nuttiness of almond.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine almond flour, orange zest, and maple syrup. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Roll into small balls, flatten gently, and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

 

30. Chestnut Flour Cookies

Description: Nutty and earthy cookies made with chestnut flour.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup chestnut flour
• 1/2 cup coconut yogurt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix chestnut flour, coconut yogurt, and olive oil in a bowl until a dough forms.
3. Shape into cookies and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until firm. Allow to cool before enjoying.

 

Cookie cutters can be used to experiment with fun shapes like stars, hearts, and animals to make these cookies even more appealing to kids!

 

Bonus Tips for Baking Healthier Cookies

• Substitute Ingredients: Swap refined sugar for natural sweeteners like honey, dates, or applesauce. Use whole-grain flours or nut-based flours for added nutrition.
• Add Nutrients: Mix in chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powders to boost the nutrient profile.
• Watch the Fat: Use healthier fats like coconut oil or avocado instead of butter.
• Portion Control: Use a cookie scoop to ensure consistent sizes, which helps with even baking and managing portion sizes.
• Experiment with Baking Methods: Try no-bake options or air-frying cookies for a healthier twist.

These healthier cookies to make are a great way to sneak in nutrition without compromising on taste or fun.

 

Conclusion

Healthy cookies can be a delightful way to treat kids while ensuring they get the nutrition they need. With these 30 easy recipes and tips, you can bake your way to smiles and healthier snacking!