These chewy banana oatmeal cookies are a delicious treat! Made with ripe bananas and hearty oats, they are both sweet and wholesome. Perfect for a snack or breakfast on the go!
Baking these cookies is a breeze! Just mix everything together, scoop, and bake—so easy! I love having them for breakfast; they’re like eating a cookie and a banana at the same time! 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: Mashed bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies. The riper, the better! If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can place unripe ones in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to speed up ripening.
Rolled Oats: These give the cookies a great chewy texture. If you only have quick oats, those will work too, but they may be slightly less chewy. You can also try using gluten-free oats if needed.
Brown Sugar: This adds a richer flavor. If you want a healthier option, feel free to skip it, or substitute it with honey or maple syrup (adjust the liquids accordingly). I sometimes use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Butter: Softened butter provides richness. You can swap it for coconut oil or applesauce for a dairy-free version. Applesauce will also add extra moisture!
Raisins or Chocolate Chips: These are optional but add a nice touch! If you’re not a fan, try chopped nuts or dried fruit instead for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Stay Chewy?
The secret to chewy cookies is in how you handle the baking process. Here are some tips to ensure they stay gooey and delicious:
- Don’t over-bake! Aim for golden edges while keeping the center soft.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better incorporation. Cold butter or eggs may lead to a less chewy texture.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them, allowing them to set properly.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain moisture. You can even add a slice of bread to keep them from drying out.
With these tips, you’ll be set to enjoy perfectly chewy banana oatmeal cookies every time!
Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Add-ins (Optional):
- 1/3 cup raisins or chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of baking time. So, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious, warm cookies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, take the softened butter and brown sugar. Using a fork or a hand mixer, cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step adds air to the mixture, helping to create a nice texture in your cookies.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Now, add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. It’s okay if the bananas are a bit chunky; they will break down during baking.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. This helps to ensure that all ingredients are evenly mixed.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as that can make the cookies tough!
6. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using raisins or chocolate chips, fold them into the dough gently. This step is all about enhancing flavor and texture—choose your favorites!
7. Shape the Cookies:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading while they bake.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You want the edges to be golden brown, but the centers should still look a little soft.
9. Cool Down:
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as they cool!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your chewy banana oatmeal cookies! Great for snacks or breakfast. Share them with friends or keep them all to yourself! 😊
FAQ for Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Can I Use Overripe Bananas?
Absolutely! In fact, the riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Just make sure to mash them well before adding them to the mix.
Can I Substitute the Butter for a Dairy-Free Option?
Yes! You can replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. If opting for coconut oil, make sure it’s in a softened state to blend well with the other ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your cookies with walnuts, pecans, or other dried fruits like cranberries. Mix-and-match your favorites for a unique twist!
