Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies 🍌🍪
Who says cookies can’t be healthy? These Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat packed with wholesome ingredients like sprouted oats, raisins, and pumpkin seeds. Naturally sweetened with ripe banana and optional maple syrup, these cookies are perfect for breakfast on the go, a mid-day snack, or a guilt-free dessert.
Easy to make and free of refined sugar, dairy, and gluten, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Let’s break down how you can whip up these nutrient-dense cookies in just a few simple steps.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, these cookies nourish your body while satisfying your cravings.
- Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Diet-Friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, and customizable to suit your dietary preferences.
- Minimal Cleanup: Just one bowl needed to mix everything together!
Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies 🍌🍪
Course: Desserts4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
Wet Ingredients:
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/4 cup nut or seed butter (raw almond butter works great)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tbsp chia seeds
2 tbsp pure maple syrup (optional, can substitute with raw honey or omit for less sweetness)
Dry Ingredients:
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/3 cup organic raisins
1 cup sprouted rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
Optional Topping:
Flaky salt
Directions
- Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. Add the nut or seed butter, cinnamon, chia seeds, and maple syrup (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
- Mix in the pumpkin seeds, raisins, and oats until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
- Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Refrigerate the dough for about 10 minutes. This step helps it firm up and makes it easier to shape into cookies.
- Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. This recipe yields about six cookies, but you can adjust the size as desired.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 375°F for 12 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown on the edges.
- Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
- If desired, sprinkle flaky salt on top for a sweet-salty twist. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before enjoying!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
- Spoon or Spatula: To stir the dough.
- Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Oven: Preheated to 375°F.
Tips for the Best Cookies
- Ripeness of Banana: Use a very ripe banana for the sweetest and most flavorful results.
- Customize Mix-Ins: Swap raisins for dried cranberries, or add chocolate chips for a treat.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step—it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when slightly soft in the center.
Storage Instructions
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to a week to maintain freshness.
- In the Freezer: These cookies freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of nut butter.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey upgrade.
- Boost the Protein: Mix in a tablespoon of your favorite protein powder.
- Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or ginger for a festive flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
These cookies are versatile and pair wonderfully with:
- Hot Beverages: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or a cup of warm almond milk.
- Yogurt Parfait: Crumble a cookie over a bowl of yogurt and fresh berries.
- Smoothies: Pair with a green smoothie for a nutrient-packed breakfast.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly softer. Rolled oats work best for a chewy consistency.
Do I need to add the maple syrup?
Not necessarily. The ripe banana and raisins provide natural sweetness, so feel free to omit the maple syrup if you prefer less sugar.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is easy to scale up if you need a bigger batch.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Definitely! These cookies are packed with healthy ingredients and make a great snack for kids.
Share Your Baking Success
Ready to make these Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies? They’re quick, easy, and so satisfying. Perfect for any time of the day!
If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more healthy, delicious recipes. Let us know in the comments how your cookies turned out and any creative twists you tried!
Enjoy every bite! 🍌🍪
