Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

Healthy Banana Oat Cookies are the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion! Made with just five wholesome ingredients, they offer a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying healthy. This recipe is not only low in sugar but also high in fiber, making it an ideal snack for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a delightful dessert, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With only five main ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
• Nutritious Snack: Packed with fiber and low in calories, these cookies make for a healthy snack option.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize your cookies with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 32 minutes, these cookies fit perfectly into a busy lifestyle.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Made with gluten-free rolled oats, they cater to those with dietary restrictions.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Healthy Banana Oat Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Fork: Great for mashing bananas evenly and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to bake your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

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Ingredients

Healthy Banana Oat Cookies are low calorie made with only 5 ingredients! A high fiber cookie easy to meal prep for a healthy snack low in sugar. Gluten Free + Low Calorie

For the Cookies:

• 2 bananas (very ripe)
• 1 cup Gluten Free Rolled Oats
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Optional Ingredients:

• chocolate chips
• raisins
• nuts
• seeds

How to Make Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a medium bowl, mash the very ripe bananas using a fork. If using maple syrup and vanilla extract, add them now. Stir until everything is smooth, ensuring no banana chunks remain.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add cinnamon and gluten-free rolled oats to the banana mixture. Mix well until all dry ingredients are fully incorporated. Feel free to add any optional ingredients such as chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon measuring spoon, scoop out about 1-1/2 tablespoons of dough. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to shape them into cookies since they won’t spread during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

Step 6: Store for Later

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days or freeze them for up to 60 days.

Enjoy your Healthy Banana Oat Cookies as a delightful treat any time of day!

How to Serve Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

Healthy Banana Oat Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Add a burst of freshness by serving your cookies with sliced strawberries on the side.
• Banana Slices – Complement the banana flavor by pairing your cookies with fresh banana slices.
• Berries Medley – A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries adds a colorful touch and extra nutrients.

With Nut Butter

• Almond Butter – Spread almond butter on top for a creamy texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly.
• Peanut Butter – A classic choice that adds richness and protein, making your snack even more satisfying.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Ice Cream Filling – Create a fun dessert sandwich by adding a scoop of dairy-free ice cream between two cookies.
• Yogurt Layer – Use yogurt as a filling for a healthier twist; you can even add fruit or granola.

How to Perfect Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

To ensure your Healthy Banana Oat Cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Very Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal flavor.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Aim for a thick batter.
• Experiment with Add-ins – Try adding chocolate chips, raisins, nuts, or seeds for added texture and flavor variations.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; ovens vary. Remove them when they are lightly golden around the edges.
• Chill the Dough (Optional) – For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

Pairing your Healthy Banana Oat Cookies with delightful side dishes can elevate your snack experience. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Greek Yogurt – Creamy Greek yogurt is high in protein and makes a perfect dip or side.
3. Nut Mix – A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats that balance the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Chia Pudding – Light and nutritious chia pudding complements the cookie’s texture while offering additional fiber.
5. Smoothie Bowl – Serve alongside a smoothie bowl topped with granola for a wholesome breakfast or snack option.
6. Coconut Milk Rice Pudding – Creamy rice pudding made with coconut milk offers an exotic twist that pairs well with banana flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Healthy Banana Oat Cookies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure the best results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using underripe bananas: Underripe bananas lack the sweetness and moisture needed for soft cookies. Always use very ripe bananas for optimal flavor and texture.
• Skipping the oats: Oats are essential for structure in these cookies. Ensure you measure properly and use gluten-free rolled oats if needed.
• Not mashing enough: Leaving banana chunks can lead to uneven texture. Mash the bananas until completely smooth to incorporate them well with other ingredients.
• Overbaking: These cookies can become dry if left in the oven too long. Keep a close eye on them, and remove them once they are lightly golden.
• Ignoring optional add-ins: Adding chocolate chips or nuts can enhance flavor and texture. Don’t hesitate to customize your cookies with your favorite mix-ins!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Healthy Banana Oat Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Freezing Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 60 days, making them great for meal prep.

Reheating Healthy Banana Oat Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Healthy Banana Oat Cookies.

Can I make Healthy Banana Oat Cookies without added sugar?

Yes! The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, making additional sugar unnecessary.

How do I make Healthy Banana Oat Cookies gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats as your base ingredient to ensure they remain gluten-free.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can omit it altogether if you prefer no added sweetness, or substitute with honey or agave syrup if desired.

How do I customize my Healthy Banana Oat Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, seeds, or dried fruits based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Banana Oat Cookies are not only easy to make but also versatile and customizable. Enjoy them as a snack or dessert while keeping calories low and fiber high. Try experimenting with different add-ins to make this recipe your own!