Little Lactation Cookies Recipe
If you’re breastfeeding, one of the most important things to pay attention to in your diet is getting enough calories, hydration, and nutrients. This is true for your well-being, mood, nutrients available to baby in your milk, and likely for your supply, too.
Most people wonder if lactation cookies truly help their milk supply. The answer to this is complicated, and considering lactation cookies are often expensive, it’s worth a thorough look!
Lactation cookies are often sold with the claim that they are milk supply boosting because they are made with galactagogues - foods that are thought to support milk supply by stimulating the hormones involved in lactation.
We don’t have great evidence on how much these foods can impact your milk supply (for a full deep dive into how food can support your milk supply, click here), but what we do understand to a greater degree is the importance of calories.
Under-eating and under-nourishing the body can trigger a stress response, which can in turn have a negative impact on breastmilk supply. Sufficient calories are needed, and it’s common for new moms to be under-eating (breastfeeding requires an average of 500 additional calories per day) because of the challenges of eating well in postpartum.
So when a new mom starts adding lactation cookies to their day and notices a supply improvement, it begs the question: is it the ingredients in the cookies themselves, or the big boost of calories?
To boost both of these possible drivers of milk support, The Little Lactation Cookies from The Food Doula Cookbook use real-food ingredients that are both galactagogues and provide more energy, protein, and good fats than your typical cookie (many store-bought lactation cookies included!).
This way, you can enjoy your lactation cookies (for less $!), and know they’re giving you an extra nutrition boost too (as the base of almond and oat flour pack in not only the protein and fibre, but key postpartum micronutrients too!).
And, it has to be said: You deserve cookies! You built, birthed, and are nurturing your baby, which is hard work! Delicious food, cookies included, are always an energy and mood boost!
The benefits of Little Lactation Cookies
Nutrient-rich ingredients: These cookies are made with almond flour and oat flour, providing a good dose of protein, great fats, and fibre.
During the postpartum and breastfeeding periods, your body is recovering from birth and producing milk for your baby, which requires extra nutrients. Protein is essential for tissue repair and muscle strength, while fibre aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common issue postpartum. Both also work together to support blood sugar regulation, which is helpful in mood and energy stabilization!
Stress-reducing treat: There’s nothing like a chocolate chip cookie to lift your spirits and help you relax, which is important for breastfeeding.
High stress levels can negatively affect milk production, so finding ways to reduce stress is crucial. Treating yourself to something sweet and comforting can provide a much-needed emotional boost, helping to maintain a healthy and positive mindset during the challenges of early motherhood.
Easy to make: With a simple recipe and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time.
Postpartum and breastfeeding moms often have limited time and energy, so having an easy, quick recipe is a necessity. These cookies allow you to satisfy your sweet tooth and get a boost of energy without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, the act of baking can be therapeutic and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Little Lactation Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 30 to 60 minutes chilling)
Cook time: 10 minutes
Makes: 48 little cookies or 24 regular-size cookies
How to make them:
In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, egg, vanilla, and coconut sugar using a hand mixer or spatula.
In a large bowl, sift together the almond flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt, then pour in the wet mixture and stir to combine.
Stir in chocolate chips, then preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and refrigerate your cookie dough for 30 to 60 minutes.
Using a tablespoon (for regular-sized cookies) or ½ tablespoon (for little cookies), portion the cookie dough onto 1 to 2 baking stones or baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Transfer cookies to oven and bake, about 9 to 12 minutes. Let cookies cool on pan for 5 minutes, then transfer cookies to cooling rack. Store in an airtight container for a week, or freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for several months.
Ingredients:
½ cup butter, soft and room temperature but not liquid
1 large egg
1 ½ tsp vanilla
¾ cup coconut sugar
1 ¼ cup almond flour
1 cup oat flour (or substitute whole wheat flour for non-GF)
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp sea salt
½ to ¾ cup chocolate chips (dairy-free or regular)
Enjoying your cookies
These cookies are perfect for a quick snack to keep your energy levels up while breastfeeding. Pair them with a glass of milk or your favorite lactation tea for an extra boost. Not only will you be treating yourself, but you'll also be supporting your milk supply with each delicious bite!
Tips for best results with lactation cookies
Hydration: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated has been shown to support milk supply!
Build up your snack: Incorporate these cookies into nutrient-powered snack! Add a handful of nuts, raspberries, or a sliced apple to your plate for good blood sugar balance and energy.
Take a moment: While it might be tough to find time for yourself, even a few minutes to enjoy a cookie can provide a small, refreshing break in your busy day. Sometimes, a tiny bit of “me time” can make a big difference.
Give these Little Lactation Cookies a try and let me know how they work for you. Share your baking photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your creations and hear about your breastfeeding journey!
Take the next step with The Ultimate Postpartum Nutrition Guide
If it’s been on your mind to optimize your nutrition for breastfeeding, recovery, and to feel more like you, there's so much more to explore in The Ultimate Postpartum Nutrition Guide. Dive deeper into postpartum nutrient needs, receive practical advice on how to eat well with a newborn, and access comprehensive meal plans and freezer-friendly recipes for postpartum and breastfeeding.
Remember, prioritizing your well-being during the postpartum period isn't selfish—it's essential for both you and your baby's health and happiness. Let's embrace this journey together and nourish ourselves from the inside out.
Happy baking and happy breastfeeding!