I admit that this title is total mushroom thirst bait. But deservingly so. These cookies are chock full of Chaga, one of my favorite fungi. It's a wonder 'shroom.
Chaga is nutrient-rich — think vitamins B and D, zinc, potassium, iron, magnesium and calcium — and a powerful antioxidant, which is part of why it has been valued for so long in traditional practice as a daily tonic.
Like its brothers, sisters and cousins of the fungi world, Chaga has an earthy taste to it. Its general essence is not unlike coffee, really, which is probably why it plays so nicely with cherry and chocolate flavors (note that Chaga is not caffeinated, however). The coconut oil that is this recipe's fat component adds a little extra taste profile that is a nice complement to this cookie's other ingredients (I personally love a coconut-chocolate pairing).
Though fungi are noted for their vast communication networks and information sharing underground, I finished this entire batch myself, and did not share a bit.
Chaga Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients¾ cup coconut sugar ½ cup coconut oil, melted 1 flax egg (1 tbsp. ground flaxseed + 2 ½ tbsp. water) 2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 ½ cups gluten free 1:1 flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tbsp. Sun Potion Chaga for subtlety; go up to 2-3 tbsp for more Chaga intensity ¼ tsp salt (I prefer a flaky sea salt, such as Maldon) ¼ - ½ cup dried cherries ¼ - ½ cup chocolate chips or cacao nibs |
MethodPreheat oven to 350° F. Create the flax egg by mixing ground flaxseed and water and allow to set for at least five minutes. Melt the coconut oil by placing the jar in hot water in the sink. Add coconut oil to coconut sugar and stir to combine. Mix vanilla extract and the flax egg into the wet ingredients. Combine flour, baking soda, salt and Chaga in a small bowl. In two or three parts, pour the dry ingredients into the wet. Mix them together gently. If the mixture seems too oily, add more flour. Add dried cherries and chocolate chips. Using hands, a spoon, or cookie scoop, create balls with the dough and add to a lined pan. Bake for about 12 minutes. Makes 20 cookies, depending on size. |
Images by Alice York
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Chaga should I use?
One tablespoon of Sun Potion Chaga gives a subtle background note. Two to three tablespoons makes it unmistakable. Start low if it is your first batch.
Are these cookies vegan and gluten free?
Yes to both, as written. The flax egg replaces the egg and the recipe uses a gluten free 1:1 flour blend.
Will the cookies taste like mushrooms?
Not in the way people expect. Chaga reads as earthy and coffee-adjacent rather than savoury, which is why it works with cherry and dark chocolate.
Can I swap the dried cherries?
Dried cranberries or chopped dried figs work. Fresh cherries add too much moisture for this dough.
Click here to discover Alice's recipe for White Dragon Matcha Sesame Cookies
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
