These are the BEST lactation cookies. Soft, chewy, and slightly crispy, they are loaded with ingredients that are supposed to help nursing moms to increase milk supply, such as oats, flaxseed and brewer’s yeast. Lactation cookies make a great gift for new moms. BUT they’re also good for the whole family – just call them oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
Breastfeeding is hard work, and it can take some time to build your milk supply. I’m no expert here, but I’ve been there twice. On my breastfeeding journey with little Gabriel, I started looking for milk-boosting recipes to induce and support my milk supply as early as possible (it took so long for my first, Lucie).
Together with herbal teas with fenugreek, I prepared some delicious snacks, with ingredients that are known for their lactogenic (milk-making) properties. That’s how I created these incredible lactation cookies!
Why you’ll LOVE these lactation cookies
- Perfect for nursing mamas
- Loaded with milk-boosting ingredients
- The BEST oatmeal chocolate chip cookie out there
- Everyone LOVE them (you don’t have to be a nursing mama!)
What are lactation cookies?
Lactation cookies contain ingredients that are known as galactagogues (flaxseed and brewer’s yeast are two common ones). These ingredients are believed to be helpful in increasing milk supply by boosting prolactin, the hormone responsible for breast milk production.
Beyond the supposed milk-boosting action, a lactation cookie is also nutrient-rich to boost new moms’ energy levels. And yes, a nursing mom needs plenty of energy, day and night!
Key ingredients for milk supply
These lactation cookies feature some ingredients that are known for their lactogenic (milk-making) properties, among which:
- Flaxseed meal. It contains phytoestrogens, that can influence breast milk production. Flaxseed is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, that are essential for developing a baby’s immune system.
- Brewer’s yeast. It contains phytoestrogens, which may help with breast tissue health and lactation. This nutritional supplement also contains B vitamins, iron, protein, chromium, selenium, and other minerals. These nutrients increase energy levels and have a positive effect on mood, which can help fighting the baby blues.
- Rolled oats. They are rich in saponins and iron, which may help increase and maintain milk secretion. Oats are also a great source of dietary fiber and antioxidants.
- Almonds. Alongside with other nuts, almonds are often used as lactogenic foods. They’re also a great source of calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and proteins, providing great nutrition to the nursing moms.
Other ingredients listed in these lactation cookies include butter, sugar, all-purpose flour, egg, coconut, and chocolate.
Do lactation cookies really work?
If you’re wondering whether lactation cookies really work, know that this is a legit question! There is no scientific evidence behind the idea that lactation cookies help induce, boost and maintain breastmilk production. However, we know that a nutrient-rich diet is key for breastfeeding moms. It helps give them all the energy they need to heal their bodies after birth, fight the postpartum fatigue and the baby blues.
These lactation cookies are highly nutritious and prepared with milk-boosting ingredients. While galactagogues won’t boost breastmilk supply on their own, some parents find them helpful. Plus, who would say no to a decadent little treat once in a while. It’s definitely part of a great postpartum recovery, in my humble opinion 😉
Good to know! If you have specific questions or concerns about milk supply, please always check with a lactation consultant.
How can I replace brewer’s yeast?
You may have difficulties to find brewer’s yeast (usually the easiest is to order online). While brewer’s yeast is the only one officially recognized for its lactogenic properties, nutritional yeast is also a great nutritional powerhouse for lactating people.
A cookie for everyone (not only nursing moms)
Never would have I thought that a lactation cookie could become one of my very favorite cookie recipe. Yet, here we are! I made the recipe several times as a gift for new moms and their families, and they are a hit every single time.
BUT these decadent cookies are great for everyone, whether you are a nursing mom or not. They’re loaded with nutrients that are good for you and they taste so decadent it’s hard to resist. Just call them oatmeal chocolate chip cookies!
Storing and freezing instructions
Store these lactation cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the lactation cookies. When completely cooled, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and store for 2 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature, and enjoy!
More lactation bites for nursing mamas:
- Nut butter Flaxseed Oatmeal Bowl
- Sugar-Free Almond Butter Banana Muffins
- Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
- Oat Peanut Butter Cups
- Chocolate-Covered Nut Date Bars
The Best Lactation Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Chilling Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 8-10 mins
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Cookies
These are the BEST lactation cookies. Soft, chewy, and slightly crispy, they are loaded with ingredients that are supposed to help nursing moms to increase milk supply, such as oats, flaxseed and brewer’s yeast.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup (80g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (35g) brewer’s yeast*
- ¼ cup (35g) flaxseed meal
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 stick (115g) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (90g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cup (130g) old-fashioned oats
- ¼ cup (25g) shredded coconut
- 6 ounces (170g) dark baking chocolate, chopped
- 2 Tablespoons sliced (or chopped) almonds
- Flaky sea salt, to serve (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, brewer’s yeast, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, and using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat softened butter, granulated and brown sugar until creamy, about 1 minute. Add egg, vanilla, and beat until incorporated.
- Pour the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and beat on low speed until just combined. Add oats, shredded coconut, chopped dark chocolate, almonds, and mix until evenly distributed.
- Using an ice cream scoop, portion the cookies into balls. Cover with plastic wrap and let chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Transfer the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them out to allow for spreading while baking. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
- Bake cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges are set and golden brown while center still soft. In doubt, always underbake the cookies slightly, as they will continue to bake onto the hot baking sheet outside of the oven. Leave on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Notes
* You can replace brewer’s yeast with nutritional yeast.
Did you make this recipe?
Lastly, if you make this The Best Lactation Cookies, be sure to leave a comment and give this recipe a rating, letting me know how you liked it. And of course, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Thank you and enjoy!
