Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats. These cookies are not just scrumptious; they are also a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, making them perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, dessert, or breakfast on the go, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Servings: 12 cookies
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 100 calories
• Protein: 2g per serving
• Carbohydrates: 15g per serving
• Fat: 4g per serving
• Fiber: 2g per serving
• Sugar: 5g per serving
• Sodium: 80mg per serving

Why Make This Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a fantastic option for health-conscious individuals who still want to indulge their sweet tooth. Made primarily with natural ingredients like bananas and oats, these cookies offer a chewy texture that is simply irresistible. They pack plenty of flavor thanks to the brown sugar and optional additions like chocolate chips or nuts. Plus, they are easy to whip up in no time, making them an ideal treat for busy bakers.

How to Make Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup oats
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: chocolate chips or nuts

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies won’t stick and will come off the baking sheet easily once baked.

Step 2: Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil (or butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The sweetness of the bananas will add natural flavor and moisture to your cookies.

Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures an even distribution of dry ingredients, which helps achieve a consistent texture throughout the cookies.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ chewy texture. If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added deliciousness.

Step 5: Baking

Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. This is when the kitchen starts to smell divine!

Step 6: Cooling

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps them set properly.

How to Serve Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Enjoy these cookies warm, straight from the oven, or let them cool down for a perfect snack. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For a delightful twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.

How to Store Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Store your Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

• Make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• If you want to make these cookies vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup.
• Experiment with different add-ins like dried fruits, seeds, or spices for a unique flavor profile.
• Don’t overbake; soft and chewy is the goal!

Delicious Variations

• Nutty Banana Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
• Choco-Banana Cookies: Incorporate 1/2 cup of semisweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, chocolaty flavor.
• Spiced Banana Cookies: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for deeper warmth and complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
  Yes, quick oats can be used, but they may create a slightly different texture.

• What can I substitute for coconut oil?
  You can use unsalted butter or any neutral-flavored vegetable oil.

• Can I make these gluten-free?
  Yes, simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

• How can I make these cookies sweeter?
  Add extra brown sugar or use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness.

• Is it necessary to add salt?
  Yes, salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Conclusion

Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies are not just a treat; they are a wholesome option that brings the comforting flavors of banana bread into a delightful cookie format. Easy to make and packed with nutrition, these cookies are perfect for kids and adults alike. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the irresistible chewy goodness!