Get ready to enjoy some chewy banana oatmeal cookies that are super tasty and healthy! With ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies feel like a warm hug.
Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, I love how easy they are to make! Just mix it all up, scoop them out, and bake—quick and delicious! Plus, you can share them… or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are the star here! Their natural sweetness and moisture keep the cookies chewy. If you’re out of bananas, you could use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute, but the flavor will vary a bit.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give structure to the cookies. You can swap them with quick oats but expect a softer texture. If you need a gluten-free option, check that the oats are certified gluten-free.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and a slight caramel flavor. If you want to cut down on sugar, you can skip it entirely, but I’d suggest reducing the amount gradually to find your perfect sweetness level.
Butter: Unsalted butter offers a creamy texture. You can replace it with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Raisins/Chocolate Chips: Both are great add-ins! If you want a healthier twist, consider using dried cranberries or chopped dark chocolate. You could also leave them out for a simpler cookie.
Why is Mixing Ingredients in the Right Order Important?
Mixing the ingredients correctly ensures your cookies come out perfectly chewy and textured. Start by creaming the butter and sugar for a smooth base. This step helps incorporate air for a lighter cookie. Here’s how to mix effectively:
- Beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add mashed bananas and vanilla next; it should look well-blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure even distribution.
- Fold the dry mixture gently into the wet ingredients. This keeps the dough airy and chewy—don’t overmix!
Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 12-15 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, you should have these delicious cookies ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent your cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a spoon or mixer to cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until it’s nice and smooth. This will make your cookies tender and tasty!
3. Mix in the Bananas and Vanilla:
Toss in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix it all together until it’s combined evenly. You’ll smell that delightful banana goodness!
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the oats, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. This step ensures that everything is evenly mixed before it goes into the wet ingredients.
5. Fold the Mixtures Together:
Now, gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the banana mixture. Gently stir until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, or you’ll lose that nice chewy texture!
6. Add the Extras:
If you’re using raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, fold them into the dough now. These add-ins make your cookies extra special!
7. Scoop and Shape:
Using a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Don’t forget to flatten them slightly; this helps them bake evenly.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Pop the cookies in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden, and they look set but are still chewy in the middle!
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy!
Dig into these chewy banana oatmeal cookies with a glass of milk, or enjoy them with your favorite cup of tea. They’re perfect for a snack or breakfast treat!
These cookies are packed with flavor and naturally sweetened by bananas, making every bite a delightful experience. Happy baking!
FAQ About Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Can I Substitute the Bananas?
Yes! If you don’t have bananas on hand, you can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly, and you might need to adjust the sweetness since applesauce is less sweet than bananas.
How Should I Store the Cookies?
Store your chewy banana oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but note that they may make the cookies a bit softer and less chewy. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats!
How Can I Make These Cookies Healthier?
To make these cookies healthier, consider reducing the brown sugar or omitting it entirely since the bananas provide natural sweetness. You can also add in some chopped nuts or seeds for added nutrition and crunch!
