Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tahini Cookies with Jammy Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Tahini (Can substitute with almond butter); 1/4 cup Coconut Oil (Melted); 1/3 cup Maple Syrup (Natural sweetener); 1 Egg (Or 1/3 cup of applesauce for vegan option); 1 1/2 cups Flour (Gluten-free flour blend can be used); 1/4 cup Flaxseed Meal (Can be omitted if not available); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (No substitutions recommended); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Can swap with pumpkin pie spice); 1 teaspoon Salt (No substitutions); 1 cup Soft Dates (Can substitute with fruit jam or preserves); 1/4 cup Hazelnuts (Finely chopped, can use almonds or walnuts)

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There’s a certain magic to homemade treats that can transform the simplest of ingredients into pure delight. My Low-Sugar Tahini Cookies with Jammy Date Filling are a testament to that. With each bite, your taste buds will dance at the glorious mix of nutty tahini and the sweet richness of the soft date filling. Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to whip up, but they also cater to those seeking a healthier dessert option as they’re low in sugar, vegan, and gluten-free! Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast or a satisfying snack, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Who would have thought that a delightful treat could be so nourishing? Ready to create something truly scrumptious? Let’s dive into making your new favorite cookies!

Why are Tahini Cookies a Must-Try?

Health Conscious Choice: These cookies are low-sugar, so you can indulge without guilt.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of common pantry items, you’ll whip these up in no time, making them a great alternative to takeout treats.
Jammy Goodness: The sweet, soft date filling brings a new layer of flavor, offering an exquisite contrast to the nutty tahini.
Versatile Baking: Feel free to make it your own by swapping in your favorite nut butters or even folding in some chocolate chips for added decadence! Check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies for more delicious ideas.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether enjoyed warm at home or shared at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends!

Tahini Cookies Ingredients

• To create these scrumptious tahini cookies, gather the following ingredients to start your baking adventure!

For the Cookie Dough

Tahini – Adds creaminess and a rich, nutty flavor. You can substitute with almond butter for a unique twist.
Coconut Oil – Provides moisture and a hint of coconut taste. Unsalted butter or vegan butter can work if preferred.
Maple Syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener. For a non-vegan option, honey or agave syrup can be used.
Egg or Applesauce – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan alternative.
Flour – Provides the essential structure for the cookies; you can opt for a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Flaxseed Meal – Boosts fiber content and nutrition; this can be omitted if not available.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise for a perfectly fluffy texture; no substitutions are recommended.
Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor with warmth; feel free to swap with pumpkin pie spice for seasonal fun.
Salt – Balances and elevates the overall flavor; no substitutions here!

For the Jammy Filling

Soft Dates – Create a naturally sweet and chewy center; if dates are unavailable, fruit jam or preserves can be used.
Nuts (Hazelnuts) – Provide a nice crunch and added texture; almonds or walnuts make great alternatives.

Get ready to bring these delectable tahini cookies to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low-Sugar Tahini Cookies with Jammy Date Filling

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy cookie removal and cleanup later. This initial setup is crucial for achieving perfectly baked tahini cookies.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of tahini, 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, and 1/3 cup of maple syrup. Stir in either 1 egg or 1/3 cup of applesauce to bind the ingredients together. Mix these wet ingredients until smooth, creating a creamy base for your cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. This mixture will provide the structure and flavor to your tahini cookies. Ensure there are no clumps, so everything blends seamlessly when combined.

Step 4: Form the Dough
Gently pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The result should be a soft, slightly sticky cookie dough. If you have time, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to help it firm up; this can enhance the cookie texture when baked.

Step 5: Prepare the Jammy Filling
For the filling, process 1 cup of softened dates in a food processor until they form a sticky paste. If using, add in 1/4 cup of finely chopped hazelnuts for added texture, blending until well combined. This filling is key to creating that delightful jammy center in your tahini cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Take a tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball in your hands. Make a small indentation in the center, fill it with about 1 teaspoon of the date-nut mixture, and then gently seal the dough around the filling. This ensures a delicious surprise awaits inside each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown. For softer tahini cookies, aim for the shorter baking time. Keep an eye on them to achieve your desired texture.

Step 8: Cool and Store
Once baked, allow the tahini cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps set their shape. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness or freeze them for long-term enjoyment.

Make Ahead Options

These Low-Sugar Tahini Cookies with Jammy Date Filling are a fantastic choice for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy a delightful treat even on your busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by blending the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. The jammy filling can also be made ahead—store it in the fridge where it will keep for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough, fill with the prepared mixture, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade cookies that taste just as delicious as when freshly baked, with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Tahini Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your tahini cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge where they can last about 10-14 days. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the tahini cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. This will bring back their delightful texture!

Tahini Cookies: Endless Customization

Dive into the delicious world of tahini cookies and let your creativity shine with these easy twists and substitutions!

Nut Butter Swap: Replace tahini with almond, cashew, or peanut butter for diverse flavor profiles. Each nut butter brings a unique character to the cookie.
Sweetener Options: Use coconut sugar instead of maple syrup for a deeper caramel flavor. This simple switch enhances the overall taste while keeping it low-carb.
Flour Variety: Replace standard flour with oat flour for a wholesome, nutty flavor. Oat flour also adds extra fiber, making these cookies even more nutritious.
Fruity Twist: Stir in some dried cranberries or apricots into the cookie dough for a burst of fruity goodness. They add a pleasant chewiness alongside the nutty flavors.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough to uplift the flavors, creating a fresh, vibrant cookie experience. The brightness complements the nutty tahini beautifully.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in vegan chocolate chips for a decadent treat. They’ll melt slightly and create pockets of blissful chocolate goodness in each bite.
Spicy Kick: Substitute the cinnamon with a dash of cayenne pepper or ginger for a warm, spicy undertone. This unexpected twist adds complexity to these otherwise sweet cookies.
Jammy Center: If you’re looking for a quicker alternative to dates, try using your favorite fruit jam like raspberry or strawberry for a sweet, gooey center. It’s a great way to jazz up the filling effortlessly!

Remember, the magic of home cooking lies in experimentation, so don’t hesitate to try a few of these ideas in your next batch of Chocolate Chip Cookies or even in these tahini cookies. Enjoy the process and create something uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Tahini Cookies

Soften Dates: Ensure that your dates are soft for blending. If they’re hard, soak them in hot water for about 10-15 minutes.
Blend Texture: For a smooth jammy filling, pulse the nuts finely. Chopping by hand may result in a chunkier texture than desired.
Watch Baking Time: Adjust baking time based on how soft or crispy you prefer your cookies. A shorter time yields softer tahini cookies, while longer time results in a firmer bite.
Chill Dough: Refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the texture of your cookies and make them easier to handle during shaping.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different nuts or add chocolate chips into the cookie dough for a fun twist on these beloved tahini cookies!

What to Serve with Low-Sugar Tahini Cookies with Jammy Date Filling

Bring warmth to any gathering by serving these delightful cookies alongside a few complementary treats and drinks.

Creamy Coconut Yogurt: This adds a smooth, rich texture that enhances the nutty tahini while providing a refreshing balance to the sweet filling. Top with some fresh berries for an extra pop of flavor!
Chai Tea Latte: The spicy warmth of chai beautifully complements the cookies’ sweetness, making it the perfect cozy drink to enjoy alongside them. The fragrant spices will elevate the whole experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits brings a juicy freshness to the table, contrasting the cookies’ dense texture and adding a healthy aspect to your meal.
Hummus and Veggies: Light, savory hummus paired with crunchy veggies offers a great dip to bring out the earthy notes of the tahini while creating an appealing contrast with the cookies.
Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of a homemade trail mix featuring nuts and dried fruits makes for a crunchy sidekick that echoes the cookies’ flavor notes, perfect for a satisfying snack complement.
Almond Milk: This plant-based drink is a fantastic alternative to milk, bringing a creamy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs flawlessly with the cookies’ nutty essence.
Dark Chocolate Squares: Rich dark chocolate adds a decadent touch and enhances the jammy filling with its bold flavor. A couple of squares can delight your taste buds and offer a touch of indulgence.

Tahini Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of tahini is best for these cookies?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality tahini that is smooth and creamy. Aim for a brand that uses only sesame seeds for the purest taste. I recommend tasting it beforehand; if it’s too bitter, try to find a lighter, more roasted version.

How should I store these cookies for optimal freshness?
Very! Store your tahini cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1 week. You can also place them in the fridge for 10-14 days. Just ensure the container is sealed properly to keep them from drying out.

Can I freeze tahini cookies, and if so, how?
Of course! To freeze your tahini cookies, first, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Put the sheet in the freezer until the cookies are firm, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or a sealed container. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, or for a quick fix, microwave them for a few seconds until warm.

What should I do if the cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels overly sticky, don’t worry—it happens to the best of us! Simply sprinkle in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help it firm up and make it easier to shape.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
This is a great question! Since tahini is made from sesame seeds, it should be safe for those avoiding nuts. However, if you want to avoid any allergens, use sunflower seed butter instead. Just be cautious of everyone’s dietary restrictions, especially if making these for gatherings!

Can I replace the maple syrup with another sweetener?
Yes, indeed! While maple syrup gives a lovely richness, you can substitute it with agave syrup for a vegan option or honey if you’re not strictly vegan. Just remember, honey will slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious!