How to make cookies using buttermilk.

When you soak whole grains, their nutrients become more available and easier to digest. In the case of whole wheat flour, it also makes it softer, so that it tastes more like white flour. When you soak the flour in milk products such as buttermilk, yogurt, clabbered milk or even whey, their lactic acid helps to break down complex starches and difficult-to-digest proteins present in the grain. It also activates the enzyme phytase, which works to break down the phytic acid* found in the bran of grains.
This is a cookie recipe adapted from Sally Fallon's ''Nourishing Traditions''. 

• 1/2 cup buttermilk- the left-over milk that you have from making butter
• 1/2 cup softened butter or canola oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1 1/2 cups stone-ground whole wheat flour
• 1 cup Rapadura
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup walnuts, almonds or pecans, chopped

Blend buttermilk, butter (or oil), flour and salt. Place in a bowl, cover and leave at room temperature for 8 to 24 hours. Beat in Rapadura and vanilla until the though is smooth. Add chocolate chips and nuts. Drop by the spoonfuls on a baking stone (or cookie sheet), and bake at 350ºF for 20 minutes.
Note: you can also use yogurt or clabbered milk instead of the buttermilk, and raisins instead of chocolate chips. You may also add cinnamon (1/2 tsp) or other spices to your taste. These cookies taste great, and don't have the heavy feel that you would expect from a typical whole-wheat treat. 
* More on phytic acid:
"All grains, nuts, and seeds contain phytic acid, an organic acid that blocks the absorption of minerals. Grains also contain enzyme inhibitors and irritating compounds that can inhibit digestion. Traditionally, grains were properly prepared by soaking and sprouting. Not only does this practice neutralize the negative effects of phytic acid, but it also increases the nutritional value of the grain. Proper preparation is especially important for breakfast cereals.'' 
Sally Fallon, Weston Price Foundation- http://www.westonaprice.org