Chocolate Chip Trail Mix Cookies (Paleo)

I created these cookies in honor of my dad, and first made them for Father's Day.  My dad has never been a big dessert guy, but has always been a fan of oatmeal raisin cookies.  I'd have to agree with him... that oatmeal texture always gives such a soft, chewy bite to a cookie... So, I decided to find a way to mimic that "oatmeal element"~ but in a Paleo friendly way (gluten & grain free).

These cookies have the perfect soft/chewy texture that every good oatmeal cookie should.  I swapped out the oats for shredded unsweetened coconut, and added some trail mix-inspired ingredients (chocolate, nuts, raisins) to boost the flavor.  The addition of cinnamon & nutmeg really pushes these cookies over the edge, and gives them a warm, sweet flavor that is perfectly balanced by the sea salt.



Try these out next time you're having a cookie craving, or bring them to a gathering... I don't think your friends/family will guess that they are caveman-friendly!  :)

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup grass-fed butter or coconut oil, softened
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup almond flour
• 2 Tbsp coconut flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/3 cup of each: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, raisins, chocolate chips (I use the "Enjoy Life" brand)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
2. Combine the softened butter, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl, until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the dry ingredients with your mix-ins (sliced almonds, coconut, raisins, chocolate chips), until combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until all of the flour is mixed in.
5. Scoop your cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, using an ice cream scoop.  Flatten each cookie dough ball to about 1/4" thick.
6. Bake the cookies at 350ºF for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
7. Allow to cool, and enjoy!