As a new mom, your days are filled with endless love and joy and, let’s be honest, some exhaustion too.
While you’re taking care of your little one, it’s just as important to take care of yourself, especially when it comes to maintaining a steady milk supply. That’s where lactation cookies come in!
These cookies are a delicious way to boost your milk production, thanks to ingredients specifically chosen to support lactation.
We know how precious every moment is when you’re busy with a newborn, so we’ve crafted an easy-to-follow vegan recipe for lactation cookies that you can make at home.
Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, flaxseeds, and brewer’s yeast, these cookies will give you that extra boost while satisfying your sweet tooth.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from understanding what makes these cookies special to baking your own batch. Let’s dive in so you can enjoy a nourishing, plant-based treat while supporting your breastfeeding journey!
What Are Lactation Cookies?
Lactation cookies are just what they sound like—cookies made specifically to support breastfeeding moms. They contain ingredients known as galactagogues, which can help increase milk production.
While there are lots of recipes out there, it’s all about finding the one that works best for you.
These cookies aren’t just practical; they’re also a tasty way to make sure your milk supply stays steady. When made with the right ingredients, they turn into a comforting, sweet treat you can look forward to.
We know that every mom’s needs are different, so feel free to tweak our vegan recipe to suit your preferences.
Nutritional Value of Lactation Cookies
To give you an idea of what each serving provides, here’s a quick look at the nutritional value of these cookies:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 17 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 2.7 mg |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
These cookies aren’t just a sweet treat; they also pack in some important nutrients to support your body while breastfeeding.
Ingredients in Vegan Lactation Cookies
If you’re a regular baker, you probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. There are a few additions that make these cookies special for lactation. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 125g vegan butter (softened): Coconut oil can be used as an alternative if you prefer.
- 150g (¾ cup) brown sugar: Keeps the cookies moist and adds a rich flavor.
- 1 flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water; let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely flavor. You can use vanilla paste if you have it on hand.
- 110g (1 cup) oats: Essential for the oatmeal texture. Oats are one of the key ingredients that support milk production.
- 100g (¾ cup) flour: Use whole wheat or all-purpose flour. Whole wheat adds more nutrients.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a bit of lift, making them soft and chewy.
- 30g (¼ cup) LSA (linseed, sunflower, and almond meal): A nutrient-rich blend that supports lactation.
- 1–2 tablespoons (10-20g) brewer’s yeast: Rich in iron, B vitamins, and protein to support milk production.
- 150g (1 cup) vegan chocolate chips: Feel free to swap these for dried fruit or nuts if you prefer.
How to Make Vegan Lactation Cookies
Making these cookies is just like baking a regular batch of cookies but with a bit of an extra boost for breastfeeding moms.
If you’ve baked cookies before, this will be a breeze. If not, don’t worry—these instructions are easy to follow!
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it’s heating up, line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, flax egg, and vanilla together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats, flour, baking powder, LSA, and brewer’s yeast. Mix well to combine. As you stir in the vegan chocolate chips, you’ll notice the dough might feel a bit sticky. That’s totally normal.
- Shape the Cookies: Wet your hands to make rolling the dough easier. Scoop out tablespoons of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined tray, leaving a bit of space between each cookie. Use a wet fork to gently flatten each ball.
- Bake: Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes if you prefer a soft, chewy cookie. For a crunchier texture, bake for 12-15 minutes. Once they’re done, let them cool on a rack before enjoying.
Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the freezer. To freeze, make sure they’ve cooled completely, then transfer to an airtight container lined with parchment paper. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer—perfect for making ahead!
Variations of Vegan Lactation Cookies
These cookies are versatile, so you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Add Some Coconut: For a different texture and taste, mix in some shredded coconut. It’s a great way to change up the flavor if you’re getting tired of the same batch.
- Include Healthy Fats: Adding walnuts, pecans, or cashews not only gives your cookies a delicious crunch but also packs in some extra healthy fats to support you during breastfeeding.
- Swap Out the Chocolate Chips: If you’re not in the mood for chocolate, try using dried fruits, vegan white chocolate, or even seeds. It’s an easy way to keep things interesting and cater to your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding is hard work, and finding small ways to support yourself can make a big difference. These vegan lactation cookies are not only delicious but are also packed with ingredients that can help maintain your milk supply.
Plus, they’re super easy to make and store, so you can have a nourishing snack on hand whenever you need it.
If you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to support your breastfeeding journey, give these cookies a try. They’re a little treat just for you, and who doesn’t deserve that?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Lactation Cookies Should I Eat?
Breastfeeding moms typically need about 500 extra calories a day. This works out to around 6 lactation cookies daily, but listen to your body and adjust as needed.
Can Non-Breastfeeding People Eat These Cookies?
Absolutely! Lactation cookies are safe for anyone to eat. They’re packed with nutrients and make a delicious snack for anyone, regardless of their breastfeeding status.
When Should You Start Eating Lactation Cookies?
If you’re pregnant and planning to breastfeed, start eating lactation cookies a few weeks before your due date. It can take 1-2 days for the ingredients to help increase your milk supply, so starting early gives you a head start.
What Is Brewer’s Yeast?
Brewer’s yeast is a key ingredient for boosting milk production. It’s rich in minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. You can find it at most health food stores. Just remember, it’s different from baker’s yeast.
Do Lactation Cookies Really Work?
Many breastfeeding moms swear by lactation cookies for helping to maintain or boost their milk supply. While every body is different, the ingredients commonly found in these cookies—like oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast—are known for their lactation-supporting properties. Eating them can be a tasty and convenient way to incorporate these nutrients into your diet.
What Ingredient Makes Lactation Cookies Work?
The key ingredients that support milk production in lactation cookies are oats, flaxseed (LSA), and brewer’s yeast. These ingredients are known as galactagogues, which are substances that can help increase milk supply in breastfeeding moms. Brewer’s yeast is especially rich in nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and protein, which are beneficial for lactation.
