Cookies For Calm

Aug. 1, 2025

When facing cancer treatment, indulging in simple sources of joy becomes especially important. The simple act of baking chocolate chip cookies can provide a powerful form of emotional relief. The process engages your senses in a way that naturally reduces stress and anxiety. As you measure flour, cream, butter and sugar, and fold in chocolate chips, your mind relaxes as it focuses on these gentle, repetitive motions rather than worries about treatment or recovery.

You have two wonderful options when it comes to enjoying these mood-boosting treats. Store-bought cookies offer convenience when energy levels are low or treatment side effects make cooking challenging. There's absolutely no shame in choosing the easier path when you are craving quick comfort. Pre-made cookie dough or bakery cookies can provide the same emotional benefits without the physical effort, or the clean up.

However, if you're feeling up to it, baking your own cookies can amplify the therapeutic effects. The act of creating something with your own hands provides a sense of accomplishment and control that can be especially meaningful during treatment. Here's a healthier take on the classic recipe that doesn't sacrifice taste for nutrition:

Healthier Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of old-fashioned oats or oat flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda

  • 1/3 to 1/2 cups of mini chocolate chips 

  • 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil 

  • 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup

  • 2 tablespoons of coconut sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. 

  2. If using oats instead of oat flour, blend them in a food processor or blender until they form a fine flour consistency. 

  3. In a large bowl, stir together the oat flour, salt, and baking soda.

  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted oil, maple syrup, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. 

  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. 

  6. Fold in the chocolate chips gently. 

  7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. 

  8. Bake for 8-9 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The beauty of cookie therapy extends beyond nutrition. As the cookies bake for just 8-9 minutes, your kitchen fills with that unmistakable aroma that seems to wrap around you like a warm hug. This is the perfect time to practice mindfulness. Close your eyes and breathe deeply, letting the sweet scent wash over you. Feel free to sit nearby and simply enjoy this moment of anticipation. These few minutes of baking time can become a mini meditation session, allowing your mind to rest and your body to relax.

Something as simple as chocolate chip cookies can bring moments of peace to your day. Contact The Brooklyn Cancer Center at 718-780-3700 to learn more about integrative approaches, such as baking during your cancer journey.

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