Using olive oil in cookie recipes offers numerous benefits. It provides a unique flavor profile, adds moisture, and contributes to a chewy texture. Plus, olive oil is rich in healthy fats, making these cookies a more nutritious option compared to those made with butter.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Flavor Enhancement: The fruity and peppery notes of high-quality olive oil can enhance the taste of baked goods.

1. Chewy Olive Oil Crinkle Cookies

These chewy crinkle cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate cookie. The use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a chewy texture.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix olive oil and granulated sugar until combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Roll the dough into balls, coat in powdered sugar, and place on the baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set. Let cool before serving.

For a fun variation, try adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough!

2. Small Batch Olive Oil Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfect for a quick treat, this small batch recipe makes just eight cookies, ideal for sharing or satisfying a sweet craving without overindulging.

Ingredients:

75g extra virgin olive oil
90g muscovado sugar
50g granulated sugar
1 large egg
145g all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
200g dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, muscovado sugar, and granulated sugar. Add the egg and mix until smooth.
Fold in flour, baking soda, and espresso powder, then add the chopped chocolate.
Scoop out balls of dough and place them on the baking sheet.
Bake for 16-17 minutes until edges are set. Cool before enjoying.

These cookies are crispy on the edges and chewy in the center, making them a perfect treat!

3. Lemon Olive Oil Sugar Cookies

These light and zesty sugar cookies are made with olive oil instead of butter, giving them a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon glaze.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup olive oil
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
Zest of 1 lemon
For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, lemon juice

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In one bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk olive oil and sugar until combined. Add the egg and lemon zest.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Scoop dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool before glazing.

For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Baking with olive oil opens up a world of flavors and textures that can transform your cookie recipes. Whether you're making chewy chocolate chip cookies or zesty lemon sugar cookies, olive oil adds a unique twist that is both delicious and healthier. Try these recipes today and discover the wonderful world of olive oil baking!