These Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are a tasty way to start your day! They’re packed with oats, bananas, and a hint of honey for sweetness, making them both satisfying and nutritious.
I love how easy they are to whip up! Just mix, scoop, and bake. Plus, they’re perfect for a quick snack on the go—because who has time to sit down for breakfast? 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have ripe ones, you can use unsweetened applesauce instead.
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These provide texture. Quick oats can work as a substitute, but don’t expect the same chewy texture.
Nut butter: Almond butter brings a nice flavor but feel free to replace it with peanut butter or sun butter for a nut-free option.
Sweetener: Honey and maple syrup both add sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try using agave syrup or stevia.
Dried fruit: Cranberries are great, but you can switch them with raisins, chopped dates, or even dried apricots for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Hold Together?
The keys to ensuring your cookies hold together lie in the mixing and baking. Start by mashing the bananas thoroughly, so they combine well with the other ingredients. Make sure not to overmix once the dry ingredients are added; just mix until combined.
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop for even portions on the baking sheet.
- Flatten them slightly before baking to help them hold their shape.
- Bake them until they are set and slightly golden; this helps the cookies firm up as they cool.
How to Make Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
- 1/3 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
- Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Allow yourself an extra few minutes for cooling before enjoying your delicious cookies. Total time will be around 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier!
2. Mash the Bananas:
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they are smooth. This helps bind the cookies together and adds natural sweetness.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Mix It All Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; don’t worry if there are a few lumps—it’ll all come together!
6. Add Mix-Ins:
Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped nuts. If you’re using chocolate chips or coconut, add them at this stage too. They’ll give your cookies an extra delightful flavor!
7. Scoop the Cookies:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet. Flatten them slightly to form cookie shapes. This helps them bake evenly!
8. Bake the Cookies:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool the Cookies:
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy and Store:
These cookies are perfect for breakfast or snacks! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge!
Enjoy your homemade Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies! They’re not just delicious but packed with wholesome goodness!
Can I Use Overripe Bananas for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they’re sweeter and more flavorful. Just make sure they’re well-mashed for the best texture.
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?
Yes! To make these cookies vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup and ensure your almond butter or peanut butter is vegan-friendly. They’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, seeds, or even chopped dried fruit like apricots or figs for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of how the extra ingredients may affect the cookie texture.
