Introduction

Banana oatmeal cookies are a delicious and healthy treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats. These cookies are not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day. With their chewy texture and delightful flavor, banana oatmeal cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Ripe bananas: 2 medium
– Old-fashioned oats: 1 1/2 cups
– Peanut butter: 1/2 cup
– Honey or maple syrup: 1/4 cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
– Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
– Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
– Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 12 cookies

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth.

Add Oats and Other Ingredients

Stir in 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 tsp of cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp of salt to the mashed bananas. If desired, add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips or nuts at this stage for extra flavor and texture.

Mix Until Combined

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be somewhat sticky and hold together.

Form Cookie Dough

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set.

Cool the Cookies

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Substitutions

Feel free to substitute quick oats for rolled oats, and you can use different add-ins such as dried fruit or seeds according to your preference.

Banana Ripeness

For the best flavor and sweetness, use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots.

Cook techniques

Using Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is essential for the best flavor and sweetness in your cookies. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal ripeness.

Oat Preparation

You can use rolled oats or quick oats depending on your texture preference. Rolled oats will give a chewier texture, while quick oats will make the cookies softer.

Mixing Ingredients

Mix the ingredients thoroughly but avoid over-mixing the dough to keep the cookies tender.

Baking Time and Temperature

Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Cooling the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storing Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

FAQ

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you may substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

Are these cookies vegan?

Yes, these banana oatmeal cookies are naturally vegan as they do not contain any eggs or dairy.

Can I add mix-ins to the cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

How can I make the cookies sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter cookies, you can add a bit of maple syrup or honey to the mix, or use extra ripe bananas.

Can I make these cookies without oats?

While oats are a key ingredient for texture, you can experiment with oat flour or skip them for a different recipe altogether.

Conclusion

These banana oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also a healthy treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they make for a perfect snack or breakfast option. Enjoy experimenting with different add-ins and variations to suit your taste!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Add chocolate chips to the banana oatmeal cookie mixture for a sweet twist that kids and adults will love.

Nuts and Seeds Variation

Incorporate nuts such as walnuts or almonds, or seeds like chia and flaxseed for added crunch and nutrition.

Dried Fruit Delight

Mix in dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots to introduce a chewy texture and natural sweetness.

Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Stir in peanut butter for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with bananas, creating a rich and satisfying cookie.

Spiced Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Add a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to infuse warm spices into the cookies, enhancing their flavor profile.

Vegan Variation

Substitute honey with maple syrup and use a flax egg to create a vegan version of these delightful cookies.

Caramel Swirl Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Drizzle caramel sauce into the cookie mixture for a decadent treat that combines sweetness and texture.