Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a wholesome and delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the hearty texture of oats. These cookies are perfect for those seeking a nutritious snack or a guilt-free dessert option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. They are naturally sweetened with bananas, making them a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. Additionally, they are versatile and can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup quick oats
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)SkinnytasteYummy Toddler Food+6Nellie’s Free Range+6Skinnytaste+6

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add the quick oats to the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
4. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
7. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cookies are set and lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.Crafty Mom’s ThoughtsEat the Gains

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8 cookies
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutesDownshiftology+30Skinnytaste+30Eat the Gains+30Yummy Toddler Food+6Hurry The Food Up+6Skinnytaste+6

Variations

• Add-ins: Incorporate ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds for added flavor and texture.
• Spices: Enhance the taste with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Sweeteners: For a sweeter cookie, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
• Nut Butters: Mix in a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What type of oats should I use?

Quick oats are recommended for this recipe as they provide a softer texture. However, old-fashioned rolled oats can also be used for a chewier consistency.Reddit+3MerryBoosters+3Yummy Toddler Food+3The Guardian+3Yummy Toddler Food+3Nellie’s Free Range+3

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by using certified gluten-free oats, you can make these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Are these cookies vegan?

Yes, the basic recipe is vegan as it contains no animal products. Ensure any add-ins are also vegan-friendly.

Can I add sweeteners to the recipe?

Absolutely. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can add natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to the batter.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots on the peel. Ripe bananas are sweeter and mash more easily, contributing to the cookie’s flavor and texture.Yummy Toddler Food+1Amy’s Healthy Baking+1

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can increase the protein content. You may need to adjust the amount of oats to maintain the desired consistency.EatingWell

How can I make the cookies more moist?

To achieve a moister cookie, consider adding a tablespoon of applesauce or yogurt to the batter.

Can I use steel-cut oats?

Steel-cut oats are not recommended for this recipe as they have a much firmer texture and require longer cooking times.

Are these cookies suitable for children?

Yes, these cookies are a healthy snack option for children. You can also involve them in the baking process for a fun activity.

Can I double the recipe?

Certainly, you can double or even triple the recipe to make a larger batch. Ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space to accommodate the increased quantity.Eat the Gains+2Cooking Made Healthy+2SELF+2

Conclusion

Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a simple, nutritious, and versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, they are perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins to suit your taste preferences.

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