When it comes to indulging in a sweet treat while staying aligned with your holistic wellness goals, these healthy pignoli cookies are the perfect solution!
Combining the classic Italian flavors of pine nuts with the gut-healing power of collagen powder, this recipe offers a delicious way to boost your nutrition while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Whether you're looking for a gluten-free dessert, a healthy snack, or a way to support your skin and joints, these cookies tick all the boxes.
This recipe was inspired by my breakfast cookies made with nuts and bananas. The chewy texture pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or hot chocolate.
In this article, we'll walk you through a simple yet indulgent recipe for healthy pignoli cookies with collagen powder. Plus, we'll highlight the health benefits of the ingredients, including collagen's impact on gut health, skin, and overall wellness.
You'll also find helpful variations, storage tips, and serving suggestions. Let's dive in!
Jump to:
- 💖 Why You'll Love This Healthy Pignoli Cookie Recipe?
- 🥣 Ingredients For Healthy Pignoli Cookies With Collagen Powder
- 🩺 Health Benefits of Healthy Pignoli Cookies
- 👩🍳 Directions For Healthy Pignoli Cookies
- 🧡 Learn How to Make Healthy Pignoli Cookies
- 📖 Recipe
- ⭐️ Pro Nutrition Tip
- 💙 Substitutions
- 🥚 Healthy Food Swaps Guide
- 🍴 Variations
- 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- ❄️ Storage
- 🥘 Meal Prep Tips
- 🍳 Equipment
- My Favorite Baking Sheet Pan
- My favorite collagen powder!
- 🤔 ⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions
- 😀 Enjoy This Healthy Pignoli Cookie Recipe!
- ❤️ You Might Also Love These
- 🤲 Pairing
- Get my Healthy Holidays eBook!
- 💬 Comments
💖 Why You'll Love This Healthy Pignoli Cookie Recipe?
- Gut & Skin Support - With the addition of collagen powder, these cookies help support gut health, improve skin elasticity, and promote joint flexibility—giving you a treat that nourishes from the inside out.
- Gluten-Free & Nourishing - Made with almond and coconut flours, these cookies are naturally gluten-free and packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, offering a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.
- Simple, Wholesome Ingredients - Using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and nutrient-rich pine nuts, this recipe is free from refined sugars and artificial additives, making it a wholesome treat perfect for any time of day.
🥣 Ingredients For Healthy Pignoli Cookies With Collagen Powder
To make these easy healthy pignoli cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients. They’re simple, wholesome, and full of goodness!
- Almond Flour - A gluten-free flour that’s rich in healthy fats and proteins, almond flour is perfect for creating a soft, moist texture in cookies.
- Coconut Flour - Another gluten-free option that provides additional fiber and helps to balance the consistency of the dough.
- Maple Syrup - A natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, providing a touch of sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels.
- Vanilla Extract - For a warm, comforting flavor that complements the nutty taste of pine nuts.
- Egg Whites - Help bind the ingredients together while providing protein for muscle recovery and skin health.
- Collagen Powder - A high-quality, unflavored collagen powder that’s easy to add to any recipe. Look for grass-fed, hydrolyzed collagen powder for optimal absorption. I prefer my brand of collagen powder by Eat Your Nutrition™. Radiant Beauty Collagen Peptides contains two different types of hydrolyzed collagen for maximum skin-loving benefits.
- Pine Nuts (pignoli) - The star of the recipe! Pine nuts add a crunchy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. They’re also a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants.
Optional:
- Chia Seeds - For an added boost of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Lemon Zest - Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the nutty pine nuts.
See the recipe card for quantities.
🩺 Health Benefits of Healthy Pignoli Cookies
1. Gut Health Support with Collagen
Adding collagen powder to these cookies provides a powerful boost to your gut health.
Collagen is rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, which help repair and regenerate the gut lining. It’s particularly beneficial for those with gut issues like leaky gut syndrome, IBS, or food sensitivities.
2. Skin and Joint Health
The collagen in these easy healthy cookies promotes skin elasticity, hydration, and strength. As you age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to wrinkles and joint discomfort.
Incorporating collagen into your diet is a natural way to replenish your body's stores and keep your skin youthful and your joints flexible.
3. Healthy Fats and Antioxidants
Pine nuts are packed with monounsaturated fats, which are great for heart health and maintaining balanced hormones. They also contain antioxidants like vitamin E and zinc, which support skin health and protect against oxidative stress.
4. Natural Sweeteners and Fiber
By using maple syrup instead of refined sugar and incorporating almond and coconut flour, these cookies are naturally sweetened and packed with fiber.
The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing the sugar crashes associated with traditional cookies.
👩🍳 Directions For Healthy Pignoli Cookies
Now that you know why these easy healthy cookies are so special, let's dive into the step-by-step process for making them. Don’t worry. These cookies are simple to prepare and require only a few ingredients.
The key is to combine everything carefully to ensure you get the perfect texture and flavor. Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of healthy, delicious pignoli cookies!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, collagen powder, and salt. The collagen powder will blend seamlessly with the dry ingredients, ensuring each cookie is packed with its benefits.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a food processor, whisk together the egg whites, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a thick dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Use your hands to form small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball into the pine nuts, pressing them gently into the dough so they stick. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as almond flour-based cookies can brown quickly.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let these easy, healthy cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The pine nuts will add a satisfying crunch, and the cookies will have a soft, chewy interior.
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🧡 Learn How to Make Healthy Pignoli Cookies
Learn how easy it is to make this healthy pignoli cookie recipe—a fun and delicious gut-friendly treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
With simple, wholesome ingredients and the added benefit of collagen powder, these cookies offer a nourishing twist on a classic favorite.
📖 Recipe
Healthy Pignoli Cookies
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- ¼ cup coconut flour
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 scoop Radiant Beauty Collagen Peptides (can use your favorite collagen powder)
- 1 cup pine nuts (otherwise known as pignoli)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon lemon, zest
Instructions
- Preheat the OvenPreheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dry IngredientsIn a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, collagen powder, and salt. The collagen powder will blend seamlessly with the dry ingredients, ensuring each cookie is packed with its benefits.
- Mix the Wet IngredientsIn a food processor, whisk together the egg whites, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine the Wet and Dry IngredientsAdd the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a thick dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Shape the CookiesUse your hands to form small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball into the pine nuts, pressing them gently into the dough so they stick. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the CookiesBake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as almond flour-based cookies can brown quickly.
- Cool and EnjoyLet the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The pine nuts will add a satisfying crunch, and the cookies will have a soft, chewy interior.
Laura's Recipe Tips
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Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. Modify as needed and enjoy.
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⭐️ Pro Nutrition Tip
For an added boost to your collagen intake, try adding a scoop of collagen powder to your daily routine in other ways too! You can mix collagen powder into smoothies, coffee, or even homemade soups.
Collagen is a versatile supplement that helps promote gut healing, skin elasticity, and joint health, making it a perfect addition to your holistic wellness regimen.
💙 Substitutions
There are several easy swaps you can make to cater to dietary needs or preferences. Check out some easy substitutions and variations to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas.
- Egg-Free Option - For a vegan version of these cookies, replace the egg whites with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Sweetener Alternatives - If you prefer a different natural sweetener, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or coconut nectar. Keep in mind that each sweetener may alter the flavor slightly.
- Collagen-Free Version - If you don’t have collagen powder or want to skip it, feel free to omit it. While collagen is great for gut and skin health, the cookies will still be delicious and nutritious without it. Alternatively, you can replace it with a plant-based protein powder to add a protein boost.
- Nut-Free Option - If you need to make these cookies nut-free, you can swap the almond flour with sunflower seed flour. Replace the pine nuts with sunflower seeds for the crunch, maintaining a similar texture and flavor.
- Additional Flavorings - For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to the dough. A bit of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors and complement the pine nuts beautifully.
🥚 Healthy Food Swaps Guide
Check out my free Healthy Food Swaps Guide for how to swap out different foods if you suffer from food allergies, sensitivities, intolerances, or simply an aversion.
🍴 Variations
Here are a few variations for my healthy version of a pignoli cookie recipe.
- Vegan Option - To make these cookies vegan, swap the egg whites for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based collagen alternative or omit the collagen entirely.
- Nut-Free Option - If you need to make these cookies nut-free, you can substitute the almond flour with sunflower seed flour and replace the pine nuts with sunflower seeds.
- Add-Ins - Feel free to add a handful of dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a festive twist on these healthy pignoli cookies.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Healthy pignoli cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack, a light dessert after dinner, or a nutritious treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or tea. They're a great addition to holiday gatherings, brunches, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with a healthy, homemade sweet treat.
For an extra boost, pair these cookies with a cup of herbal tea or a gingerbread cookie spiced smoothie to enhance your skin and gut health even more. The combination of these cookies with a gut-friendly beverage can help you create a balanced, nourishing snack that fuels both your body and your soul.
❄️ Storage
These healthy pignoli cookies are not only easy to make but also simple to store, so you can enjoy them over several days or even weeks! Here’s how to keep them fresh.
- Room Temperature - Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy, with the pine nuts retaining their crunch.
- Freezer Storage - If you want to keep these cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, and they’ll be as delicious as fresh-baked.
- Refrigeration - If you're in a particularly warm climate or want to extend the shelf life a bit longer, you can refrigerate the cookies. Store them in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature for the best texture when serving.
By following these storage tips, you can make a batch of these healthy, delicious cookies ahead of time and enjoy them for days or weeks to come!
🥘 Meal Prep Tips
- Pre-Measure Ingredients - Combine dry ingredients such as flour, baking powder, and any spices in advance, then store them in an airtight container to simplify the dough-making process.
- Make-Ahead Dough - Prepare your healthy pignoli cookie dough in one batch and refrigerate it overnight. This step not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dough easier to handle when forming cookies.
- Portion and Pre-Shape - Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto a lined baking sheet. This helps ensure uniform cookies and speeds up your baking time.
- Batch Bake and Cool - Bake a large batch at once, then let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before transferring them to storage containers.
- Freeze for Later - If you have extra cookies or dough, freeze them in single layers on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags or airtight containers. This makes for a convenient, healthy treat on busy days.
- Label and Organize - Mark your containers or bags with the recipe name and date, ensuring you keep track of freshness and enjoy the cookies at their best.
🍳 Equipment
I like to use a sheet pan when baking my pignoli cookies. A good-quality sheet pan ensures even baking and crisp edges. My favorite brand is Wilton. They’re durable, non-stick, and dishwasher safe. A sturdy sheet pan is essential for baking all kinds of treats, making it a must-have in any kitchen.
the best
My Favorite Baking Sheet Pan
Perfect for roasting all your favorite vegetable dishes or baking your favorite cookie recipe.
I like to use Radiant Beauty Collagen Peptides by Eat Your Nutrition in my pignoli cookie recipe. It’s a high-quality, grass-fed collagen that supports gut health, skin elasticity, and joint function.
Radiant Beauty Collagen Peptides is easy to mix into any recipe, making it a must-have for boosting nutrition and enhancing beauty from the inside out.
the best
My favorite collagen powder!
Contains two different types of hydrolyed collagen for maximum skin-loving benefits.
🤔 ⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions
These FAQs should help address any common concerns or questions you may have about making your healthy pignoli cookies with collagen powder. Enjoy baking and snacking on these nourishing treats!
Can I Use A Different Type Of Sweetener In This Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute maple syrup with honey, coconut nectar, or even a low-glycemic sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.
Keep in mind that different sweeteners might alter the texture or flavor slightly, so it may require a bit of experimentation to find your perfect balance.
Can I Make These Cookies Without Collagen Powder?
Absolutely! Collagen powder is an optional ingredient in this recipe, but it does offer added benefits for gut health, skin, and joints.
If you don’t have collagen, you can either omit it or substitute it with a plant-based protein powder for an extra protein boost.
How Can I Make These Cookies Nut-Free?
To make the cookies nut-free, substitute the almond flour with sunflower seed flour, which is a great alternative.
Also, replace the pine nuts with sunflower seeds to maintain the crunchy texture while keeping the recipe nut-free.
Are These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, these healthy pignoli cookies are naturally gluten-free since they use almond flour and coconut flour as the base. This makes them a great option for those following a gluten-free or grain-free diet.
Can I Freeze These Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
When you're ready to eat them, just thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
If you refrigerate them, they can last up to 7 days. If frozen, they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Egg Substitutes In This Recipe?
Yes, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons water per egg) as a substitute for the egg whites in this recipe, making them suitable for vegans or those with egg allergies.
What Is The Role of Collagen In These Cookies?
Collagen powder adds protein to the cookies and provides numerous health benefits, including supporting gut health, skin elasticity, and joint health.
It’s especially beneficial for those who want to improve their digestive system or skin health.
How Can I Adjust The Sweetness Of These Cookies?
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly, or try using a lower-sugar sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Taste the dough before baking, and adjust accordingly.
How Much Flour Can We Use To Swap Out The Coconut And Almond Flour?
If you’d like to substitute the almond and coconut flour, you can use 1 cup of all-purpose gluten-free flour or 1 ¼ cups of einkorn flour.
However, keep in mind that these swaps may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cookies.
Can You Use Einkorn Flour?
Einkorn flour is a great option for those who can tolerate gluten, as it’s an ancient grain with more nutrients and easier digestibility compared to modern wheat. Adjust the liquid ingredients as needed to maintain the correct dough consistency.
If you are celiac or have a gluten sensitivity, I'd advise against using einkorn flour.
Why Don't You Use Almond Paste In This Recipe?
Traditional pignoli cookie recipes often call for almond paste, but this healthier version skips it to reduce added sugars and processed ingredients.
Instead, the almond flour provides a similar nutty flavor while keeping the recipe more wholesome and suitable for a gut-friendly diet. Plus, skipping almond paste makes the recipe more accessible and easier to customize!
😀 Enjoy This Healthy Pignoli Cookie Recipe!
These healthy pignoli cookies with collagen powder offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic Italian treat while supporting your gut health, skin, and overall well-being.
With their combination of healthy fats, collagen, and nutrient-dense ingredients, these cookies make a fantastic addition to any wellness-focused lifestyle. So, go ahead, bake a batch, and indulge in the nourishing benefits of these scrumptious, gut-friendly treats!
I hope you guys love this recipe! If you make it, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think! And if you post to Instagram, I repost your remakes of your creations on my IG stories!
I would also love to hear what you think, or take a photo and tag me @EatYourNutrition on Instagram. I love seeing your photos. #EatYourNutrition #LauraVillanueva
❤️ You Might Also Love These
Looking for other Christmas dessert recipes like this? Try these:
🤲 Pairing
These are my favorite recipes to serve with this pignoli cookie recipe:
Are You Interested in More Festive Holiday Recipes?
If you’re interested in trying new festive holiday recipes or would like some tips on how to stay healthy during the holidays, check out this great guide today.
Healthy Holidays Survival Guide is the key to your success during the busy frantic holiday season.
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