Easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies for a Healthy Treat
Are you in search of a satisfying snack that also aligns with your healthy eating goals? Look no further! These easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are your perfect solution. Not only are they made with wholesome ingredients, but they also pack a delightful taste that both kids and adults will love. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for an afternoon treat or a on-the-go snack. Let’s get started on making these scrumptious Healthy Banana Cookies!
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools
– Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)
– Kitchen Tools:
– Mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Fork or potato masher
– Measuring cups and spoons
Prep & Cook Time
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, and cinnamon (if using) to the bowl with the mashed bananas. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Fold in Extras: If you’re adding chocolate chips or dried fruit, gently fold them into the cookie mixture.
5. Scoop Dough: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Benefits or Advantages
If you’re looking for healthy snacks, these Banana Oatmeal Cookies are an excellent choice. They are rich in fiber from the rolled oats and packed with potassium from the bananas. The healthy fats from the nut butter provide sustained energy, making these cookies not just a treat, but a nutritious option to fuel your day.
Tips, Variations, or Substitutions
– Nut-Free Option: Substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.
– Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the dough.
– Sweetness Adjustments: You can reduce the honey or maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet cookie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Under-mashing the Bananas: For the best texture, ensure that the bananas are mashed thoroughly, which will help the cookies bind together.
– Skipping the Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper will prevent the cookies from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your Healthy Banana Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for about a week, or freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Conclusion
These easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies strike the perfect balance between health and taste. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, they make for a delightful snack any time of the day. So why not give them a try? Whip up a batch today, and share this wholesome treat with your friends and family—because healthy eating should always be delicious!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may vary. Rolled oats give the cookies a chewier texture.
Q2: Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
Q3: How do I make the cookies more chewy?
Try adding more mashed banana or a touch of coconut oil to the mix.
Q4: Can I customize the mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in nuts, seeds, or your favorite dried fruits.
