Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that’s both delicious and nutritious, look no further than these Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies! Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert, these cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, making them a guilt-free option for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, manage your weight, or just enjoy a tasty snack, these cookies tick all the boxes. They’re also incredibly easy to make, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special and how you can whip up a batch in no time!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples like ripe bananas, oats, and almond butter, these cookies are both accessible and affordable.
- Naturally Sweetened: Thanks to the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, there’s no need for added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber from oats and healthy fats from almond butter, these cookies provide a satisfying, nutrient-dense snack.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a bake time of 10 minutes, these cookies are perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.
- Versatile and Customizable: Add in your favorite mix-ins like dark chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to make them your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, almond butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
- Form the Cookies: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form cookie shapes.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on the edges and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later!
Tips and Variations
- Ripeness Matters: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results.
- Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins. Try adding chopped nuts, raisins, shredded coconut, or even a pinch of sea salt for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for a longer shelf life.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if you’re catering to a gluten-free diet.
Why These Cookies Are a Great Choice
Banana Oatmeal Cookies are not only a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, but they also pack a nutritional punch. With no added sugars and loaded with fiber, these cookies provide a slow release of energy, making them perfect for a mid-morning snack or a post-workout treat. Plus, they’re a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste! Pair the banana oatmeal cookies with the Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken for a healthy meal that your family will love.
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