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Easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are soft, naturally sweet treats made with ripe bananas and old-fashioned oats. Packed with fiber and nutrients, these fuss-free cookies are perfect as a wholesome snack, quick breakfast, or guilt-free dessert. The recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep time, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels while delivering delicious flavor and chewy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (with plenty of brown spots)
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans) or seeds (e.g., pumpkin or sunflower seeds) for nut-free option
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
  • 1/3 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
  • 1 scoop protein powder or 2 tablespoons nut butter for extra protein
  • Pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for spiced variation

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bananas: Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. This acts as the natural sweetener and binder for the cookies.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix the vanilla extract into the mashed bananas to evenly infuse flavor. If using, add nut butter or protein powder at this stage and stir until combined.
  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats and cinnamon to the banana mixture. Stir gently until a sticky, cohesive dough forms as the oats absorb moisture and provide structure.
  4. Incorporate Mix-ins: Fold in optional ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, distributing them evenly without overmixing the dough.
  5. Shape and Bake: Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet and flatten slightly with fingers or a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes until edges turn golden but centers remain soft.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • Do not overbake to maintain moist and chewy cookie texture.
  • Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies and consistent baking.
  • Customize with mix-ins to suit your taste preferences.
  • Let cookies cool on the baking sheet a few minutes before transferring to prevent breaking.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana, oatmeal, cookies, healthy snack, gluten free, vegan, easy recipe, soft cookies