Dear friends,

There is something grounding about baking this time of year. The quiet act of measuring and stirring, the scent of something warm rising in the oven, and the joy of giving a homemade treat all feel especially meaningful during the holiday season.

As many of you know, I’ve begun to cook and eat with more intention. Since my recent health journey, I’ve been learning how to better support my body by being more mindful of sugar, carbs, and blood glucose. I’m discovering a new rhythm in the kitchen and exploring recipes that are diabetic friendly and, truly, good for all.

These peanut butter cookies are a perfect example. Made with only a handful of ingredients, they are naturally gluten free, low in sugar, and full of flavor. They’re crisp at the edges, soft in the middle, and studded with just enough chocolate to feel like a treat. I made a batch to gift to friends, packaged in simple brown boxes lined with parchment and tied with red and white baker’s twine.

They are proof that something small can carry great joy.

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Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies with Dark Chocolate

Gluten-free, low sugar, and perfect for gifting

Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup smooth natural peanut butter (I used Justin’s Natural Peanut Butter)
• ½ cup NatureBell monk fruit sweetener with allulose
• ⅓ cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips (I used Bake Believe)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375ºF and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and salt. Stir in the peanut butter and monk fruit sweetener until fully combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
3. Scoop slightly rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern into each cookie and flatten them slightly.
5. Bake one sheet at a time for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden.
6. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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To Serve or Share

Once cool, I nestled the cookies into small boxes lined with parchment, then tied them with red and white baker’s twine for a simple, heartfelt holiday gift. Whether you package them for a neighbor or enjoy one with a cozy cup of tea, I hope they bring you a moment of quiet joy.

This season, I’m reminded more than ever that what we give does not have to be extravagant. Sometimes, a small box of cookies, lovingly made, says exactly what we mean.

With love,
Carrie