Lactation Cookies
These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies are packed with ingredients known to support milk production for nursing mothers. Made with wholesome oats, brewer’s yeast, and flaxseed, these delicious treats offer both nourishment and comfort during your breastfeeding journey.
Easy Lactation Cookies Recipe
There’s something truly special about homemade lactation cookies that sets them apart from store-bought alternatives. These cookies aren’t just a treat—they’re a thoughtful blend of galactagogues (milk-boosting ingredients) wrapped in a delicious, comforting package. While lactation cookies have gained popularity in recent years, the tradition of supporting nursing mothers with nourishing foods dates back centuries across cultures worldwide.
Perfect for new moms in any season, these cookies make wonderful gifts for baby showers or postpartum care packages. They’re especially welcome during those early weeks of motherhood when nutritious, grab-and-go snacks are essential.
THIS RECIPE:
- Uses pantry staples with just a few specialty ingredients
- Requires no special equipment—just mixing bowls and a baking sheet
- Freezes beautifully for weeks of easy snacking
- Can be customized with mix-ins to suit your taste preferences
| Recipe Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 24-30 cookies |
| Yield | Approximately 2 dozen cookies |
These lactation cookies are incredibly straightforward to make, even when you’re juggling a newborn. The dough comes together quickly, and you’ll have warm, fresh-baked cookies in under 30 minutes. Best of all, they genuinely taste delicious—no one would guess they’re specifically formulated for nursing mothers!
Ingredients for Lactation Cookies
The quality of ingredients in lactation cookies matters significantly—not just for flavor, but because you’re consuming these cookies during a critical time when your body needs optimal nutrition. Opt for organic ingredients when possible, especially for the key milk-boosting components.
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brewer’s yeast (not nutritional or beer yeast)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional—walnuts or almonds work well)
Ingredient Quality Guidelines:
When selecting ingredients for lactation cookies, focus on the milk-boosting components. Brewer’s yeast can have a bitter taste, so finding a high-quality brand is essential. Look for debittered brewer’s yeast specifically made for lactation support. For flaxseed, purchase whole seeds and grind them yourself just before use for maximum freshness and nutritional value.
| Ingredient Category | Recommended Quantity | Quality Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Milk-Boosting Ingredients | Brewer’s yeast: 1/4 cup Ground flaxseed: 1 tbsp | Choose debittered brewer’s yeast for better taste Grind flaxseed fresh for optimal benefits |
| Base Ingredients | Butter: 1 cup Flour: 2 cups Oats: 3 cups | Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness Quick oats work but old-fashioned provide better texture |
| Sweeteners | Granulated sugar: 1 cup Brown sugar: 1 cup | Light or dark brown sugar works—dark provides more molasses flavor |
| Mix-ins | Chocolate chips: 1 cup Nuts: 1/2 cup | Dark chocolate offers antioxidants Toast nuts before adding for enhanced flavor |
How to Make Lactation Cookies
Making lactation cookies involves a simple creaming method similar to traditional chocolate chip cookies, with the addition of a few special ingredients. The process is straightforward, allowing you to create these nourishing treats even when you’re short on time or energy.
Before beginning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
Create a flax egg: Mix ground flaxseed with water in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until it becomes gel-like.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and flax mixture. Mix until well combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, brewer’s yeast, baking soda, and salt.
Merge wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Add oats and mix-ins: Fold in the rolled oats, chocolate chips, and nuts (if using) with a rubber spatula. Don’t overmix.
Form cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake to perfection: Place in preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly underbaked.
Cool properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Making Lactation Cookies
Pro tip: For maximum milk-boosting benefits, aim to eat 2-3 lactation cookies per day, spaced throughout your nursing schedule.
- Start with room temperature ingredients for the best texture and proper ingredient incorporation
- Don’t skip the flax egg step—it’s crucial for both binding and lactation support
- If the brewer’s yeast flavor is too strong, start with 2-3 tablespoons and increase gradually in future batches
- Customize with different mix-ins like dried cranberries, coconut flakes, or white chocolate chips
| Technique | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Measuring brewer’s yeast | Use a kitchen scale for accuracy; 1/4 cup = approximately 30g |
| Softening butter | Leave out for 1 hour or microwave in 5-second increments (don’t melt) |
| Cookie size | Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop for consistent sizing |
| Determining doneness | Remove when edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked |
When mixing the brewer’s yeast into your dough, combine it with other dry ingredients first rather than adding it directly to the wet mixture. This prevents clumping and ensures even distribution of this key ingredient throughout your cookies.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Lactation cookies are perfect for preparing before baby arrives or during a nap time when you have a few spare moments. Here’s how to work ahead:
The cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Allow the chilled dough to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before scooping and baking.
You can also pre-portion the dough into individual cookie balls and refrigerate them on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, you can place the frozen dough balls directly on a baking sheet, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
For the dry ingredients, measure and combine the flour, brewer’s yeast, baking soda, and salt ahead of time. Store in a labeled container or bag at room temperature for up to 1 month.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage of lactation cookies ensures they’ll maintain both flavor and milk-boosting properties. Always allow cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation that leads to soggy cookies.
Store cooled lactation cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For optimal freshness, add a slice of bread to the container, which will keep the cookies soft without adding moisture directly to them.
If storing for longer than 5 days, refrigeration is recommended. Refrigerated lactation cookies will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container. Allow refrigerated cookies to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture and flavor experience.
Freezing Lactation Cookies
Freezing lactation cookies is an excellent way to prepare for postpartum days when cooking is the last thing on your mind. To freeze baked cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date and contents. Properly frozen lactation cookies will maintain quality for up to 3 months.
To thaw, remove desired amount of cookies from the freezer and allow them to come to room temperature on a plate for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, microwave a thawed cookie for 10-15 seconds or place in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Pro tip: If freezing a large batch, portion them into weekly supplies in separate containers. This makes it easier to grab just what you need without repeatedly opening your main supply.
Serving Suggestions
Lactation cookies make a perfect snack on their own, but there are several ways to elevate your experience:
Pair these nutritious cookies with a tall glass of milk, which provides additional hydration and calcium—both essential for nursing mothers. For a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk works beautifully.
Create a nursing station snack plate with 2-3 lactation cookies, a small handful of nuts, and fresh fruit for a balanced nutrition boost during feeding sessions.
For a dessert option, sandwich vanilla ice cream between two cooled cookies and freeze for 30 minutes for a special treat that still provides lactation benefits.
Complement the cookies with lactation-supporting beverages like mother’s milk tea, fennel tea, or a warm cup of cinnamon-infused oat milk for maximum milk-boosting effects.
FAQ
Can I omit or substitute the brewer’s yeast in lactation cookies?
While brewer’s yeast is a key milk-boosting ingredient, you can reduce the amount if you find the taste too strong. Start with 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. If you need to omit it completely, increase ground flaxseed to 3 tablespoons and add 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for some of the B-vitamins that brewer’s yeast provides. Remember that this substitution may reduce the galactagogue effects.
Are lactation cookies effective for all nursing mothers?
Lactation cookies contain ingredients traditionally used to support milk production, but effectiveness varies between individuals. Some mothers notice increased supply within 24-48 hours, while others may take longer or see more subtle effects. For best results, consume 2-3 cookies daily while maintaining proper hydration and regular nursing or pumping.
Can my partner or other family members eat lactation cookies?
Yes! Lactation cookies are simply nutritious cookies with ingredients that may help increase milk supply in lactating women. They’re perfectly safe for anyone to eat and contain no hormones. The ingredients won’t cause milk production in those who aren’t lactating.
How soon after giving birth can I start eating lactation cookies?
You can begin enjoying lactation cookies immediately after giving birth. In fact, many mothers prepare these cookies before delivery so they’re ready during those early postpartum days when milk supply is being established. The ingredients in these cookies provide nutritional support beneficial for recovery as well as lactation.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, these cookies can be adapted for a gluten-free diet. Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Double-check that your brewer’s yeast is gluten-free, as some brands may contain traces of gluten. The texture may be slightly different, but the lactation-supporting benefits remain.
