Recipe ReDux: Chocolate Cookies with Dark Chocolate Chunks, Dried Cherries, and Walnuts

By Megan Kian

Some people may think of chocolate as an indulgence, but in moderation chocolate can be a part of a healthy diet. As I’ve mentioned before, chocolate contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant found in plant-based foods. Antioxidants are great for your body because they help repair cells and prevent certain diseases. This month’s Recipe ReDux theme, “Chocolate: Love Is In the Air,” is the perfect fit for February, which is Heart Health month and Valentine’s Day.

I decided to make chocolate cookies with a twist. Instead of using a lot of butter, I decided to reduce the amount and use yogurt in its place. I needed to mix it up a little more because a plain chocolate cookie wasn’t enough for me! To get the full benefit of chocolate I added in dark chocolate chunks. Another great source of antioxidants are cherries, so I decided to throw in some dried cherries, and walnuts, which are full of omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re looking for some extra fiber in your cookie, add in some flax seeds, you won’t even notice them!

Chocolate Cookies with Dark Chocolate Chunks, Dried Cherries, and Walnuts
Servings: 24
Serving Size: 1 cookie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 7 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup plain yogurt, low-fat
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts
• ¼ cup dried cherries
• ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks
• 1 tablespoon flax seeds (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
5. Once the butter has melted remove it from heat and add in the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
6. Add the yogurt and vanilla.
7. Add the flour mixture.
8. Stir in the walnuts, dried cherries, dark chocolate chunks, and flax seeds (if you want!).
9. Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes.