As we approach Halloween, I thought it might be fitting to create a special treat just for parents (and grandparents) to enjoy. Our Halloween Coffee Cookies are vegan, gluten-free, and provide a small jolt of caffeine – perfect for keeping up with the kids as they roam the neighborhood in search of spooky haunts and sugar filled treats.
Halloween Coffee Cookies
Let’s talk HALLOWEEN TREATS….
The best treats for children (of any age) are whole foods, however, it’s Halloween and participating in spooky traditions can be fun for the soul. Sometimes, we have to let go of the reins and let a little crazy in. The secret is to know what the kids are eating (keep in mind any allergy restrictions), allow them to consume in moderation, and let the candy go on November 1st.
It’s important to get back on track the day after Halloween by letting go of toxic, sugar-filled treats: Here’s why:
Over consumption of sugar actually shuts down the immune system.
According to AskDrSears.com
“Excess sugar depresses immunity. Studies have shown that downing 75 to 100 grams of a sugar solution (about 20 teaspoons of sugar, or the amount that is contained in two average 12-ounce sodas) can suppress the body’s immune responses. Simple sugars, including glucose, table sugar, fructose, and honey caused a fifty- percent drop in the ability of white blood cells to engulf bacteria. In contrast, ingesting a complex carbohydrate solution (starch) did not lower the ability of these white blood cells to engulf bacteria. The immune suppression was most noticeable two hours post-ingestion, but the effect was still evident five hours after ingestion.”
My thoughts after raising 4 children and having gone trick-or-treating each year for the past 29 years:
Have you every wondered why the sudden outbreak of illnesses (colds, flu, bronchitis) in your child’s school right after Halloween? It’s no mystery.
- Over consumption of sugar = weakened immune system.
- Over consumption of sugar causes restless sleep due to blood sugar disturbances. Lack of sleep = weakened immune system.
- Toxins (artificial additives, chemicals, TBHQ, trans fats, high-fructose corn syrup) = weakened immune system.
What’s a parent or grandparent to do?
- Let them enjoy the evening being mindful to check all candy for allergens, limit the consumption, and throw it all out on November 1st. (Don’t donate the leftover candy to other children, family members, or charities – no one needs a weakened immune system.
- If your child is gluten-free, make sure to check out Celiac.org for a complete list of gluten-free candy.
- Set a good example: Hand out treats that are made with whole ingredients. I know this can get expensive, however, both Costco & Walmart carry family-size packs of fruit leather, crackers and power bars that might fit into your budget. (See suggestions below)
- Boost your veggie and water consumption on November 1st. Let nature help clean up shop.
- Go play with your kids. Take them for a long walk, throw the frisbee, get active, and sweat it out.
Healthier Halloween Choices:
Annie’s Homegrown: Fruit Snacks
Nature’s Path: Chocolate Crispy Rice Bars
Justin’s: Nut Butter Squeeze Packs
Endangered Species: Dark Chocolate Bug Bites
I hope everyone has a FUN and SAFE Halloween!
xoxo
Kris Kelly
- 1 cup gluten-free oats, buzzed in the coffee grinder
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1-2 Tablespoons Instant Coffee Grounds (I used Mount Hagen Organic, they have both a regular and decaffeinated - either will work fine.)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 Tablespoons ground golden flax seeds (grind in coffee grinder)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup NuttZo Smooth Power Fuel, 7 Seed & Nut Butter
- 3/4 cup coconut palm sugar
- 2 Tablespoon coconut oil
- 2 Tablespoons real maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Buzz oats in coffee grinder.
- Combine oat flour, almond flour, ground flax seeds, sea salt, and instant coffee grounds. Whisk until combined.
- Combine coconut palm sugar, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla and NuttZo. Stir until well combined.
- Add the liquid to the dry and stir until well mixed.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto a parchment lined baking sheet. (Optional. Roll dough into a log and slice. - This worked well for me.)
- Bake 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free
- All recipes and images are protected under copyright laws and owned by Kris Kelly and Goofy Foot Foods.
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