If you are on the hunt for a sweet, wholesome treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, this Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the hearty chew of oats, these cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and slightly crisp. They are incredibly easy to whip up, require simple pantry staples, and yield a batch of irresistibly satisfying cookies perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Trust me, once you try this Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe, you’ll want to keep a batch ready for whenever you need a delightful pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a special role in bringing these cookies to life. From the creamy softness of ripe bananas to the comforting chewiness of rolled oats, every component contributes to the final texture, flavor, and color that make these cookies truly memorable.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The natural sweetener and moist base that keeps these cookies soft and tender.
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Adds heartiness and a lovely chewy texture that’s classic for oatmeal cookies.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies so they hold together well.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and a buttery flavor that enhances each bite.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps with that slight chewiness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and encourages a gentle crisp edge.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and gives stability to the dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and a subtle aromatic note.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to become light.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness beautifully.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts: For extra indulgence or crunch, customize the cookies your way.
How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Prep Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the tray without sticking—a little step that makes clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, which helps your cookies have a wonderful texture.
Step 3: Add the Bananas, Egg, and Vanilla
Mix in the mashed bananas, then the egg, and finally the vanilla extract. This combination adds moisture, structure, and flavor depth to the cookie dough, making it rich but naturally sweet and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures your cookies have an even flavor and texture throughout.
Step 5: Blend the Mixtures and Add Extras
Gradually add the dry blend into the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep your cookies tender. If you want to, gently fold in your choice of chocolate chips or chopped walnuts now for bursts of extra flavor and delightful texture.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. The smell at this stage is pure magic!
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time helps them firm up without losing their soft, chewy heart, making every bite perfectly satisfying.
How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delicious on their own, a light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate the presentation and add an inviting aroma. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream also pairs beautifully for a lovely touch.
Side Dishes
Banana Oatmeal Cookies are lovely when served alongside a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. For a breakfast or brunch twist, serve them next to yogurt and fresh fruit to complement their wholesome flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try sandwiching these cookies with a bit of cream cheese frosting or nut butter for a luscious treat. You can also crumble them over vanilla ice cream as a crunchy topping or even use them as a base for a decadent no-bake dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Banana Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps them maintain their softness and chewiness without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw at room temperature, or warm them slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. You can also pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to regain a freshly baked taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. These adjustments keep the deliciousness intact while accommodating dietary needs.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
Ripe bananas are key for the natural sweetness and moisture in this Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe. If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes! You can replace the brown and granulated sugars with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantities slightly and monitor the dough’s consistency.
How do I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, and replace the egg with flaxseed or chia seed gel. These changes keep the cookies moist and flavorful while respecting vegan diets.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Feel free to get creative! Add raisins, shredded coconut, chopped dried fruits, or even seeds like flax or pumpkin for extra texture, nutrition, and bursts of flavor that personalize each batch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe enough—it’s genuinely one of those easy, comforting delights that can brighten any day. Whether you’re baking for kids, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are a sweet reminder that simple ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. So, go on and treat yourself—you deserve a batch of these delicious, soft, and wholesome cookies now!
Print
Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and soft Banana Oatmeal Cookies made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a hint of cinnamon. These cookies are easy to prepare, perfect for a healthy snack or a sweet dessert, and offer a comforting homemade taste with optional chocolate chips or walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a mixer or spoon until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture and mix well until fully combined, giving the batter moisture and sweetness from the bananas.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices throughout the cookies.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which could make the cookies tough.
- Fold in Optional Add-ins: If using, fold in chocolate chips or chopped walnuts to add extra flavor and texture.
- Shape Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to prevent sticking as they expand while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn golden brown, indicating they are cooked through and crisp at the edges.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they finish firming up without becoming soggy.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, substitute the butter with coconut oil and replace sugars with honey or maple syrup to reduce refined sugar content.
- Add raisins, shredded coconut, or flaxseed for additional texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits.
- Make sure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cookies soft and tender.
