Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
I’ve always had a soft spot for cookies, especially when they come with a healthy twist. The first time I made these Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies, I was on a mission to find a guilt-free snack that would satisfy my sweet tooth while giving me a nutritious boost. As a busy person, finding the right balance between taste and health can be challenging. These cookies, made from simple ingredients like ripe bananas and oats, quickly became a staple in my home. I remember the delightful aroma filling my kitchen as they baked, making it impossible to resist sampling one straight out of the oven!
Recipe Snapshot
50 mins
15 mins
35 mins
Medium
120 kcal
3 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
4 g
Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet
What Sets This Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies Apart
Nutritious Ingredients
One of the things I love most about these Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies is their nutrition profile. They’re packed with wholesome ingredients that not only taste great but also provide energy for your busy day. Each cookie has a natural sweetness from the bananas and applesauce, which means you won’t need to add any sugar. The oats offer fiber that keeps you full, making these cookies not just a treat but a satisfying breakfast option!
Versatility
Another reason to love these cookies is their versatility. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want a nutty flavor? Toss in some chopped pecans or almonds. Craving a bit of chocolate? Add a handful of dark chocolate chips! These cookies are a blank canvas for your favorite mix-ins.
Quick and Easy to Make
Let’s be honest; sometimes we just want a quick recipe that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. These Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies are incredibly simple to whip up. With only a few steps, you’ll have a delicious batch ready in no time. Perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests!
Kid-Friendly
If you’re looking to get your kids involved in the kitchen, this is the perfect recipe! They can help mash the bananas and mix the ingredients. Plus, they’ll love having a cookie that they helped make. It’s a fun way to introduce them to healthy eating habits while also spending quality time together.
Great for Meal Prep
These cookies also make an excellent option for meal prep. You can bake a batch at the beginning of the week, and they’ll stay fresh for several days. They’re easy to grab and go, making them a convenient option for breakfast or a snack during the day. I always keep some on hand for those busy days when time is tight.
Shopping List for Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
When it comes to making the Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies, the ingredients are simple, yet they work harmoniously to create something delicious. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the texture and flavor of the cookies. The key players here include ripe bananas for natural sweetness, oats for chewiness, and applesauce for moisture. Together, they provide a nutritious base that’s not only delightful but also satisfying.
- 2 medium bananas: These should be ripe, as they contribute natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies. Mashing them well will help achieve the right consistency.
- 1 cup applesauce, unsweetened: A great substitute for oil or butter, this ingredient adds moisture without additional fat.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: This warming spice complements the flavors of banana and oats beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups oats, dry: The main structure of the cookies, providing a chewy texture and fiber.
- 1/3 cup raisins, seedless: These add natural sweetness and a chewy bite to each cookie.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: For a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, walnuts are perfect in these cookies.
Cooking Instructions for Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
Making these Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll find that each step is easy to follow, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with the delightful smell of freshly baked cookies! Let’s dive into the simple instructions.
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is an essential step that ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- Next, take the ripe bananas and mash them in a mixing bowl using the back of a fork. Aim for a creamy consistency; the riper the bananas, the better they’ll mash!
- Once mashed, add the applesauce to the bowl. Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla, and cinnamon until everything is well combined.
- Now, it’s time to fold in the remaining ingredients. Add the oats, raisins, and walnuts to the mix. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed, and let the mixture set for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop the cookie dough by spoonfuls onto the sheet. Flatten each dollop into rounds to form your cookies. The batter should yield about 16 regular-size cookies or 12 larger ones.
- Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.
- After they’ve cooled slightly, move your cookies to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Enjoy them warm or store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t overmix: When folding in the ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
- Banana ripeness matters: The riper your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add in chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or dried fruits based on your preferences.
- Check for doneness: Every oven is different. Check your cookies a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
Recipe Notes about Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
These tips will help you make the most of your Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies. Following them will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!
- Storage: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to five days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cookies for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to three months.
- Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a delightful snack.
- Variations: Consider adding dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Serving size: Adjust the size of your cookies based on your preference—smaller cookies are perfect for snacks, while larger ones can make a satisfying breakfast!
Side Dish Ideas for Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
Looking for ways to serve up your Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies? Here are some fantastic ideas that will enhance your munching experience.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair your cookies with some fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or apples, for a refreshing contrast.
- Yogurt: Serve them alongside a bowl of yogurt topped with honey for a balanced breakfast.
- Nut Butter: Spread a bit of almond or peanut butter on your cookie for an extra protein kick.
- Breakfast on the Go: These cookies are perfect for a quick breakfast when you’re in a hurry. Just grab one and head out!
- Picnic Treat: They’re also a great option for picnics or lunch boxes, providing a nutritious and tasty snack.
- Seasonal Flavors: During the fall, pair with spiced chai or during summer with iced green tea for a refreshing twist.
FAQ
Conclusion
These Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies are truly a fantastic blend of health and flavor. Their simple ingredients and ease of preparation make them a go-to choice for busy mornings or as a delightful snack. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and savor the perfect balance of sweetness and nutrition. You won’t regret adding these cookies to your recipe repertoire!
Banana Oat Breakfast Cookies
Equipment
- Oven
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 2 medium Bananas Ripe for sweetness.
- 1 cup Applesauce Unsweetened for less sugar.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1.5 cups Oats Dry oats add texture.
- 1/3 cup Raisins Seedless for easier eating.
- 1/4 cup Walnuts Chopped for crunch.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is an essential step that ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- Next, take the ripe bananas and mash them in a mixing bowl using the back of a fork. Aim for a creamy consistency; the riper the bananas, the better they’ll mash!
- Once mashed, add the applesauce to the bowl. Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla, and cinnamon until everything is well combined.
- Now, it’s time to fold in the remaining ingredients. Add the oats, raisins, and walnuts to the mix. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed, and let the mixture set for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop the cookie dough by spoonfuls onto the sheet. Flatten each dollop into rounds to form your cookies. The batter should yield about 16 regular-size cookies or 12 larger ones.
- Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.
- After they’ve cooled slightly, move your cookies to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Enjoy them warm or store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
