Maple Walnut Cookies

Makes 24 cookies

These cookies are not only a delicious treat, but they are a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids.     

2½ cups walnuts
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
¼ cup nut butter (e.g., almond, hazelnut, mixed)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup oat flour (or flour of your choice)
1/3 cup ground flaxseeds
1/3 cup dried cranberries, cherries, goji berries or coconut (optional)
24 pecan halves
2-3 tablespoons maple syrup for brushing on pecan halves

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In a food processor, grind walnuts until they are finely chopped.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla, and salt.
4. Add walnuts, oat flour, flaxseeds, and cranberries (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Spray 2 cookie sheets or line 2 cookie sheets with silicone mats.
6. Drop dough on cookie sheets with a spoon and flatten with a fork dipped in water.
7. Top with a pecan half. Brush with maple syrup.
8. Bake 15-20 minutes or until slightly golden on edges.