These chewy banana oatmeal cookies are a sweet and healthy treat! Made with ripe bananas and oats, they are soft, tasty, and perfect for any time of day.
Who knew cookies could be so good for you? 😋 I love grabbing one for breakfast or a snack! Plus, they’re super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas bring sweetness and moisture to these cookies. If you’re short on ripe ones, you can use fresh bananas by microwaving them for about 30 seconds until they soften.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for a chewy texture. If you have quick oats, you can use them, but the cookies may turn out less chewy. Instant oats aren’t a great substitute as they won’t hold up as well.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, you can skip it entirely or use honey or maple syrup; just reduce the wet ingredients a little to compensate.
Butter: Softened butter gives richness. You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free substitute if you want a dairy-free cookie.
Raisins/Chocolate Chips: Both are tasty options! If you’re looking for something different, try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even nuts for crunch.
How Can I Get the Right Cookie Texture?
The texture of these cookies is key! Here are some tips to ensure they come out perfectly chewy:
- Use very ripe bananas; the more speckled, the better! This adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix your dough. Combine just until the dry ingredients are moistened for a tender cookie.
- Flatten the dough slightly on the baking sheet. This helps them bake evenly and achieve the right softness.
- Let the cookies cool a bit on the baking sheet before moving them, as they will firm up as they cool.
Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cookies:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, adjust for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your cookies are ready to go in! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Create the Banana Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, softened butter, brown sugar (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix them well until everything is nice and smooth. The ripe bananas not only add flavor but also help keep the cookies chewy!
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt. This will incorporate all the dry ingredients evenly before they meet the wet mix.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently until everything is fully combined. You want to keep that lovely chewy texture, so don’t overmix!
5. Add Extras:
If you’re using raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, now’s the time to fold them into the dough. They add great flavor and texture to your cookies!
6. Shape Your Cookies:
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. Lightly flatten each dollop with the back of a spoon. This helps them bake evenly.
7. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Look for the edges to be golden and the cookies to set. They might seem a bit soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool!
8. Cool Down:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Enjoy Your Cookies:
After all that hard work, it’s time to enjoy! Whether you grab one for breakfast or a snack, these chewy banana oatmeal cookies are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Overripe Bananas for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas are ideal for this recipe. They are sweeter and easier to mash, which enhances the flavor and moisture of the cookies.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’d like to make the cookies dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Just make sure it’s softened so it blends well with the other ingredients!
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. Just check the label to ensure they are processed in a gluten-free facility!
