If you’re craving a wholesome treat that combines natural sweetness with hearty texture, the Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies are wonderfully soft yet satisfyingly chewy, thanks to the perfect marriage of ripe bananas and rolled oats. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or a kid-friendly bake, this recipe delivers a simple, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s adaptable and packed with straightforward ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list short but meaningful, this Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe relies on pantry staples that work together to create delightful flavor and texture. Each component plays its part, whether adding sweetness, warmth, or a bit of crunch.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: They provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the cookies soft and flavorful without extra sugar.
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats: These deliver the chewy, hearty texture that makes these cookies so satisfying and filling.
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional): A little indulgence that melts wonderfully within the cookie, adding bursts of rich cocoa flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): For some crunch and a nutty aroma, try walnuts or pecans—both complement the oats and banana perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: This warm spice adds depth and a cozy hint of spice that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden edge we all love. While it warms, you can get your ingredients ready—multitasking at its finest!
Step 2: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth, then stir in the rolled oats and cinnamon. This simple blend forms the base of your cookie dough—moist, wholesome, and aromatic. The oats soak up the banana goodness, creating that perfect chewy texture.
Step 3: Fold in Extras
If you’re using chocolate chips and chopped nuts, this is the time to gently fold them in. The chocolate chips add sweet pockets of melted luxury, while the nuts contribute a delightful crunch. Feel free to skip them if you want a simpler cookie or tailor it to your taste.
Step 4: Spoon Onto Baking Sheet
Drop spoonfuls of your cookie mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Giving each cookie enough space lets them bake evenly without merging into one big delicious mess. This part feels like the calm before the warm, wonderful storm.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Slide your tray into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for those edges turning golden brown—that’s your signal that the cookies are perfectly baked, tender on the inside with a slight crisp around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let your banana oatmeal cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet. This resting step helps them firm up just enough while staying delightfully soft. Then, dive in and enjoy the fruits of your delicious labor!
How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey can elevate your banana oatmeal cookies. You might also sprinkle a few extra oats or chopped nuts on top right after baking for a rustic, inviting look that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine as a snack on their own, but pairing them with a warm beverage like a spiced chai latte or a rich cup of coffee turns any moment into a cozy little celebration. For a wholesome breakfast, enjoy them alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, sandwich your banana oatmeal cookies with peanut butter or cream cheese frosting. You could also crumble them over your morning oatmeal or smoothie bowl for added texture and natural sweetness. They’re versatile enough to dress up or keep simple depending on the occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your banana oatmeal cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and tasty for up to three days, perfect for quick grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch in advance, these cookies freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for one, just thaw at room temperature or warm gently for a freshly baked taste.
Reheating
Warm your cookies in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked aroma and restores their soft, chewy texture.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Instant oats tend to be finer and can make your cookies denser and less chewy. While you can substitute them, rolled oats are best for maintaining that classic banana oatmeal cookie texture.
Do I need to add any sugar?
Because the ripe bananas provide plenty of natural sweetness, extra sugar isn’t necessary. However, adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can boost sweetness if you prefer.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! This Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is naturally vegan since it doesn’t include eggs or dairy. Just be sure your chocolate chips and any optional add-ins are vegan-friendly.
What type of bananas work best?
Look for bananas that are nicely spotted or even a bit overripe. The more ripe the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Try dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of chia seeds for an extra nutritional boost. Just add them during the folding step.
Final Thoughts
Making this Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe feels like sharing a warm hug in cookie form. The simple, wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly to create a treat that’s nourishing and downright delicious. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies promise a comforting experience with each bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Deliciously simple and healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and optional chocolate chips and nuts. These cookies are naturally sweetened and perfect for a wholesome snack or light dessert.
Ingredients
Dry and Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the cookies evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, and cinnamon, stirring until well blended and a sticky dough forms.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped nuts if you are using them, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown and are set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack or serving plate.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and best flavor.
- Oats should be rolled oats, not instant or steel-cut, for optimal texture.
- Chocolate chips and nuts are optional but add extra texture and taste.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- These cookies are naturally gluten free if using certified gluten free oats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
