Banana oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of overripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats. The result is a soft, chewy cookie bursting with flavor that you can enjoy any time of the day. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also make for a perfect healthy snack option. Whether you are looking for a way to use up those overripe bananas or just want a delicious cookie that feels a little bit wholesome, this recipe has got you covered.
Why We Love This Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Banana oatmeal cookies hold a special place in many hearts. They are not just tasty; they also have a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. When you bite into one, you’ll experience the chewy oats, the soft banana, and the occasional burst of chocolate from the chips or whatever mix-ins you’ve chosen.
What many love the most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master baker to whip up a batch. With just a handful of ingredients that are often found in your pantry, you can create a cookie that tastes exceptional without the fuss. Additionally, these cookies are healthy, making them suitable for any time of day, whether you enjoy them for breakfast or as a snack.
These cookies are also a wonderful way to utilize those overripe bananas that may be too mushy for other uses. Instead of tossing them out, why not turn them into delicious cookies that you can enjoy while feeling good about the ingredients?
Ingredients about Banana Oatmeal Cookies
To make these delicious banana oatmeal cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 overripe bananas (about 1 1⁄4 cups mashed banana)
- 2 Tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1⁄2 cup quick cooking oats
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1⁄4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or other mix-ins like shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or raisins
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies Directions
Making your banana oatmeal cookies is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps, and you will have a delicious batch ready in no time:
Preheat your oven. Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, you can line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking your cookies.
Mash the bananas. In a large mixing bowl, take your three overripe bananas and mash them well using a fork or a potato masher. You want the consistency to be smooth with just a few small chunks for added texture.
Combine wet ingredients. Add the two tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup), one egg, and one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined and creamy.
Mix in dry ingredients. Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Pour in the one and a half cups of quick cooking oats, one tsp of ground cinnamon, and a quarter teaspoon of fine sea salt. Stir until fully combined, ensuring all the oats are coated in the banana mixture.
Add your mix-ins. If you want to add chocolate chips or other mix-ins like shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or raisins, now is the time to do so. Stir everything together until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Scoop the dough. Using a tablespoon measuring spoon or a cookie scoop, measure out portions of the cookie dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.
Bake the cookies. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The cookies should be set on top and lightly browned on the bottoms when they’re done.
Cool and serve. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. They can be served slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to settle and the cookies to firm up a bit.
How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Cookies
There are plenty of ways to enjoy your banana oatmeal cookies! These treats are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further by serving them alongside a few accompaniments.
Consider pairing your cookies with a glass of cold milk, almond milk, or a hot cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of the beverage complements the flavors of the cookies beautifully. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, you could also top your cookies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of peanut butter for a protein-packed snack.
For a creative twist, crumble your banana oatmeal cookies over a bowl of yogurt or oatmeal for added texture and flavor. You can also use them as a topping for ice cream, which makes for a delicious dessert option. The possibilities are endless, and you can serve these cookies in a way that suits whatever mood you’re in.
Expert Tips: Banana Oatmeal Cookies
To ensure your banana oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips you might find useful:
Choose the right bananas. The best bananas for this recipe are those that are very ripe, with brown marks on the peel. They’ll mash easily and provide the most sweetness.
Customize with spices. If you want to enhance the flavor profile, you can experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger. Just remember to adjust the quantities based on your preference.
Mind your baking time. Keep an eye on your cookies while they’re in the oven. Depending on your oven and the size of your cookie scoops, baking times may vary. You want the cookies to be set but not overbaked.
Use parchment paper. Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper helps prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
Leave space between cookies. Don’t forget to leave enough space between each cookie on the baking sheet. They spread out a bit while baking, so giving them room ensures they bake evenly.
How to Store Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Once you’ve baked and cooled your delicious banana oatmeal cookies, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their freshness.
To keep your cookies soft and chewy, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last for up to one week. If you live in a particularly warm environment, consider refrigerating them to extend their shelf life.
For long-term storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature.
Variation of Banana Oatmeal Cookies
One of the best things about this banana oatmeal cookie recipe is its versatility. You can personalize it in numerous ways to suit your tastes. Here are some variations to consider:
Nutty Boost: Incorporate a half cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and healthy fats.
Fruity Twist: Stir in a half cup of dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture and added sweetness.
Chocolate Lovers: Double the chocolate chips or use a combination of dark chocolate and white chocolate for a more decadent treat.
Coconut Delight: Add in a half cup of shredded coconut to the batter, giving the cookies a tropical flair.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the quick oats for gluten-free oats to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations and find your favorite way to enjoy banana oatmeal cookies!
Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats in banana oatmeal cookies?
Yes, you can use regular oats; however, the texture may be a bit different. Quick oats absorb moisture and create a softer texture, while regular oats can leave a chewier cookie. If you decide to use regular oats, consider adding an extra tablespoon of mashed banana to maintain moisture.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
You can easily make these cookies vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg. To do this, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it becomes gel-like. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan cookie.
What mix-ins can I use for the cookies?
The options are endless! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even toss in some seeds for added crunch. Customize based on what you enjoy or what you have on hand.
Can I add protein powder to the cookie mix?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to add some protein, feel free to include a scoop of your favorite protein powder. You may need to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to achieve the right cookie dough consistency.
How do I know when my banana oatmeal cookies are done baking?
Your cookies are ready when the tops are set, and the bottoms are lightly browned. You can also gently press the tops; if they spring back, they are done.
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Fork or Potato Masher
Ingredients
- 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/4 cups mashed banana
- 2 Tbsp honey or maple syrup for vegan option
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or other mix-ins like coconut, cranberries, or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth with some small chunks remaining.
- Add honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
- Mix in the quick cooking oats, ground cinnamon, and fine sea salt until fully combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips or other mix-ins of your choice.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cookies are set and lightly browned on the bottoms.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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