How to Use Monk Fruit in Cookies
Favorite Monk Fruit Cookies Recipe
How to make monk fruit cookies is just as easy using a cane sugar recipe, with small changes. Monk fruit is often used as a sweetener in cookie recipes as a healthier alternative to regular sugar. This is because monk fruit sweetener has zero calories and does not raise blood sugar levels, making it a good option for those who are watching their sugar intake or have diabetes.
Additionally, monk fruit has been shown to have antioxidant properties and may help reduce inflammation in the body. Using monk fruit in cookies allows for a lower calorie and lower glycemic index treat that can be enjoyed without the negative health consequences associated with regular sugar.
Monk fruit is a relatively new ingredient in the Western world and may not be available in all grocery stores. However, it can be found in health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and online retailers.
It may be available in different forms such as dried fruit, liquid extract, or powdered form. When purchasing monk fruit, be sure to check the ingredient label and look for pure monk fruit extract without any added sugars or artificial ingredients.
As with any food, it’s important to practice moderation when consuming vegan cookies. The exact number of cookies that can be consumed in a day will depend on various factors such as individual dietary needs, activity levels, and overall health.
However, it’s generally recommended to limit added sugar intake, even if it comes from natural sources like monk fruit, and to balance out indulgences with a healthy and varied diet. It’s also important to note that vegan cookies can still be high in calories and fat, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies with Monk Fruit
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup vegan butter softened
- 3/4 cup monk fruit sweetener
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate large bowl, cream the vegan butter and monk fruit sweetener until light and fluffy.1 cup vegan butter, 3/4 cup monk fruit sweetener
- Add the vanilla extract and unsweetened applesauce and mix well.2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the vegan chocolate chips.1 1/2 cups vegan chocolate chips
Bake
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking with Monk Fruit FAQ
Is monk fruit safe to consume?
Yes, monk fruit is generally considered safe for consumption. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and has been approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA as a safe food additive.
How does monk fruit compare to sugar in baking?
Monk fruit is much sweeter than sugar, so you will need to use much less of it in recipes. It also has a slightly different taste than sugar, so it may take some experimentation to find the right balance of sweetness and flavor in your baked goods.
Can monk fruit be used in any type of baking?
Monk fruit can be used in most types of baking, but it may not work well in recipes that rely on the structure and texture of sugar. For example, recipes that use sugar to create a crunchy, caramelized texture may not turn out the same with monk fruit.
Does monk fruit affect blood sugar levels?
Monk fruit is a zero-calorie sweetener and does not have an impact on blood sugar levels, making it a good option for those with diabetes or those trying to reduce their sugar intake.
Can monk fruit be used in savory dishes?
Yes, monk fruit can be used in savory dishes to add sweetness, such as in sauces or marinades.
Are there any side effects of consuming monk fruit?
Monk fruit is generally considered safe, but some people may experience digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea if they consume large amounts of it. It is also important to note that some monk fruit sweeteners may contain other ingredients, such as erythritol, which can cause digestive issues in some people.
Is monk fruit more expensive than sugar?
Monk fruit sweeteners can be more expensive than sugar, but the cost can vary depending on the brand and where you purchase it. However, because monk fruit is much sweeter than sugar, you will need to use less of it in recipes, which can help offset the cost.
How to bake with monk fruit in the raw
Baking with monk fruit in the raw is a simple process, as it can be substituted for sugar on a one-to-one basis. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Determine the amount of sugar called for in your recipe and use the same amount of monk fruit in the raw.
2. Mix the monk fruit in the raw into the wet ingredients of your recipe until it is completely dissolved.
Proceed with the recipe as usual.
3. It is important to note that because monk fruit is much sweeter than sugar, you may need to adjust the amount used based on your personal taste preferences. You may also need to adjust the other ingredients in the recipe to accommodate the substitution.
When baking with monk fruit in the raw, it is also important to keep in mind that it does not have the same chemical properties as sugar, and may not caramelize or contribute to the texture of baked goods in the same way. Therefore, some experimentation may be needed to achieve the desired results.
