Proso Millet Cookies

Proso Millet Cookies

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine proso millet flour, rolled oats (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together melted butter (or coconut oil), honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, vanilla extract, and egg (or flax egg). Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk (or a non-dairy alternative) to reach the desired consistency.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
   • Fold in any optional ingredients, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
6. Shape the Cookies:
   • Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet and gently flatten them with your palm or the back of a spoon.
7. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies should still be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Serving Suggestions

• Snack Time: Proso millet cookies make a healthy, tasty snack that you can enjoy anytime during the day.
• Tea/Coffee Companion: Serve these cookies with tea or coffee for a wholesome treat.
• Breakfast: Pair them with yogurt, fresh fruit, or a smoothie for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
• Dessert: Serve them as a light dessert, with a drizzle of honey or alongside a scoop of ice cream.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. They will stay soft and flavorful.
• Refrigeration: To extend their shelf life, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving, or warm them in the oven.
• Freezing: You can also freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven.

Health Benefits of Proso Millet

1. Rich in Nutrients: Proso millet is a good source of B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are important for energy production, bone health, and overall well-being.
2. Supports Heart Health: The magnesium content in proso millet helps regulate blood pressure, while its fiber content can help reduce cholesterol levels, supporting heart health.
3. Gluten-Free: Proso millet is naturally gluten-free, making these cookies a great option for those with gluten intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet.
4. Low Glycemic Index: Proso millet has a low glycemic index, which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream more slowly. This makes these cookies suitable for people with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
5. Digestive Health: The fiber in proso millet supports digestive health and can help prevent constipation.

Availability of Proso Millet

• Grocery Stores: Proso millet is available in health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and Indian or Asian markets. You can find it in the grains or gluten-free section.
• Online: You can also purchase proso millet online from retailers that specialize in organic or gluten-free products.
• Forms Available: Proso millet is available in different forms, including whole grain, flour, and flakes. For this cookie recipe, you’ll need proso millet flour, which you can also make by grinding whole proso millet at home.

Final Thoughts

Proso millet cookies are a delicious, healthy alternative to regular cookies, offering a great balance of flavor and nutrition. With their high fiber and nutrient content, these cookies are perfect for snacking, breakfast, or dessert. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins to make them even more enjoyable.