If you’re searching for a delicious and healthy snack that’s easy to prepare, look no further than Banana Oatmeal Cookies. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutritional punch of oats, these cookies are ideal for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking. They’re quick to make, highly customizable, and perfect for using up those overripe bananas.
What Makes Banana Oatmeal Cookies Special?
Banana oatmeal cookies are more than just tasty—they come packed with benefits:
- Natural Sweetness: Bananas act as a natural sugar substitute, lowering refined sugar content.
- High Fiber: Oats add essential fiber that promotes heart health and improves digestion.
- Customizable Options: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to suit your preference.
For more ideas on how to incorporate healthy breakfasts with oatmeal and fruits, check out this detailed guide on Oatmeal with Blueberries and Bananas.
Ingredients for Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Here’s what you need to make these chewy, satisfying cookies:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 ¾ cups quick oats or rolled oats
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed bananas (ripe and spotty for the best flavor)
- ½ cup shortening or coconut oil
- 1 cup sugar (or replace with honey or maple syrup)
- 1 egg
- Optional Additions:
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Follow these steps for the perfect batch:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Combine flour, oats, baking soda, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Cream together shortening (or coconut oil) and sugar. Add mashed bananas and the egg.
- Bring It All Together:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined. Add any optional nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cookies to cool before serving.
If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, why not try another version of banana oatmeal treats, such as these Banana Blueberry Oatmeal Cookies?
Why You Should Try These Cookies
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings or quick baking projects.
- Healthy and Tasty: Packed with nutrients and natural sweetness.
- Customizable: Mix in your favorite ingredients to create unique flavors.
Tips for Perfect Banana Oatmeal Cookies
- Use ripe bananas for added sweetness and flavor.
- For chewier cookies, use rolled oats instead of quick oats.
- Customize the recipe by swapping sugar for maple syrup or honey.
- Avoid over-mixing the dough to keep the cookies soft and fluffy.
Need a deeper dive into the benefits of incorporating oatmeal into your diet? Discover how Oatmeal Cookies Can Be Healthy.
Conclusion
Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the ultimate combination of nutrition and flavor. Easy to prepare, delicious, and versatile, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacking, or a guilt-free dessert. So grab those ripe bananas and start baking these chewy, irresistible treats today!
For more healthy recipes and tips, explore Alex’s Recipes for creative kitchen inspiration!