Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a wholesome, delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the heartiness of oats. These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Packed with nutrients, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, and you can customize them with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Whether you’re looking for a quick, satisfying snack or a guilt-free treat, these Banana Oatmeal Cookies will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Banana Oatmeal Cookies are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, while the oats give the cookies a chewy texture and fiber boost. The recipe is simple, and you can adjust it to suit your preferences—add chocolate chips for extra indulgence or some raisins for a touch of nostalgia. These cookies are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option or those who need a quick snack on the go. Plus, they’re great for using up overripe bananas!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (or butter for a richer taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for a fluffier texture)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth, leaving some small lumps for texture if desired.

• Add the applesauce (or melted butter), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the mashed bananas. Stir to combine.

• Mix in the oats until fully incorporated. If you’re using honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness, add it now.

• Optionally, fold in chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

3. Shape the Cookies:

• Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the cookies slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers, as these cookies will not spread much during baking.

4. Bake the Cookies:

• Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is firm to the touch. For chewier cookies, bake closer to 10 minutes, and for crispier cookies, bake for a minute or two longer.

• Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once cooled, serve and enjoy! These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 12-14 cookies

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a richer flavor, add a handful of chocolate chips or chunks to the dough.

• Add Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots are great add-ins for natural sweetness and a chewy texture.

• Nuts and Seeds: Add walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds for extra crunch and nutrients.

• Peanut Butter Version: Add 1/4 cup of peanut butter for a nutty twist and additional protein.

• Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger to add variety to the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge.

• Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but rolled oats provide more texture. If you use quick oats, the cookies may turn out a bit softer, but they will still be delicious.

2. Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, these cookies can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring you use certified gluten-free oats.

3. Can I make these cookies without sugar?

You can skip the added sugar (honey or maple syrup), as the bananas provide natural sweetness. However, if you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can keep the sweetener or adjust it to taste.

4. How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, simply use plant-based butter or applesauce, and make sure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

5. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work just fine! Just make sure to thaw them before mashing, and drain any excess liquid that may have come from freezing.

6. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is firm to the touch. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

7. Can I make these cookies without the baking soda?

Yes, you can omit the baking soda. While it helps with a fluffier texture, these cookies will still turn out chewy and delicious without it.

8. Can I make these cookies with other fruit besides banana?

Bananas are key for the flavor and texture in this recipe, but you could experiment by adding small amounts of applesauce or other fruit purées for a slight twist.

9. Can I add a glaze to these cookies?

For an extra sweet touch, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies. A touch of vanilla or cinnamon in the glaze would complement the banana flavor nicely.

10. How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat helps prevent the cookies from sticking. If you don’t have either, lightly grease the baking sheet with oil or non-stick spray.

Conclusion

Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect blend of wholesome oats and naturally sweet bananas, making them a healthier, yet indulgent treat. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, these cookies are quick to make and satisfying to eat. With their chewy texture, comforting flavors, and the option to customize with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation!