If you’re looking for a simple, healthy treat that’s ready in under 20 minutes, these Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a perfect choice. Made with overripe bananas, wholesome oats, and just a touch of natural sweetener, they’re soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. These cookies are gluten-free, vegetarian, low in lactose, and freezer-friendly, making them a versatile option for breakfast, snacks, or even a guilt-free dessert.
Whether you enjoy them plain or with chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts, these cookies are customizable and perfect for the whole family. They’re ideal for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or a quick pick-me-up during the day.
Ingredients for Banana Oatmeal Cookies
For this recipe, you will need:
- 3 overripe bananas (about 1 ¼ cups mashed)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan/egg-free option)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips or other mix-ins (shredded coconut, dried cranberries, raisins, nuts, etc.)
These simple pantry staples come together quickly, and the overripe bananas provide natural sweetness, eliminating the need for refined sugar. The cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor that perfectly complements the bananas and oats.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy. Using ripe bananas is key for sweetness and moisture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until fully combined. If you want to make the recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg or your preferred egg replacer.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the quick-cooking oats, cinnamon, and sea salt until just combined. Then fold in any optional mix-ins such as chocolate chips, coconut, dried fruit, or nuts. Mixing evenly ensures every cookie is flavorful.
Step 5: Portion the Cookies
Use a tablespoon or a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop to measure dough portions. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow space for spreading.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are set and the bottoms are lightly browned.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.
Ingredient Substitutions and Tips
- Bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness. If using previously frozen bananas, thaw them first.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Either works well; you can also use agave or brown rice syrup.
- Egg: For a vegan version, use a flax egg or other egg replacer.
- Oats: Quick-cooking oats give a softer texture, while rolled oats can be used for a chewier bite.
- Mix-ins: Chocolate chips, cinnamon chips, dried fruit, or nuts all work. Customize according to your taste.
- Cinnamon: Don’t skip it—it gives the cookies their classic warm flavor.
- Salt: If using iodized salt, reduce to ⅛ teaspoon to avoid overpowering sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze
These cookies are versatile and convenient for make-ahead snacks:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for 5-7 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Banana Oatmeal Cookies are perfect on their own as a snack, but you can also:
- Serve with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for breakfast.
- Pair with yogurt or a fruit smoothie for a healthy snack.
- Crumble over ice cream for a quick dessert topping.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg or your favorite egg replacer, and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the cookies will have a chewier, slightly denser texture.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, dried fruit, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts make these cookies extra-special.
How sweet are these cookies?
They have a natural sweetness from ripe bananas and honey or maple syrup. Adding chocolate chips or other mix-ins will make them sweeter if desired.
