Introduction
Banana oatmeal cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat that you can enjoy without the guilt. Made with ripe bananas, oats, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips, these cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or dessert, these cookies provide a satisfying sweetness while delivering numerous health benefits.
Nutrient Benefits
Bananas
- Rich in Potassium: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which helps maintain proper heart function and regulates blood pressure.
- High in Fiber: The dietary fiber in bananas aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel health.
- Natural Sweetener: The natural sugars in ripe bananas provide sweetness without the need for added sugars, making these cookies a healthier choice.
Oats
- Whole Grain Goodness: Oats are a whole grain, providing essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Heart Health: The beta-glucan fiber in oats helps lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Sustained Energy: Oats have a low glycemic index, providing slow-releasing energy to keep you full and satisfied longer.
Dark Chocolate Chips
- Antioxidant Power: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Mood Booster: The flavonoids in dark chocolate can improve mood and cognitive function.
- Moderate Indulgence: A small amount of dark chocolate adds richness and satisfies sweet cravings without excessive sugar.
Recipe: Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), and salt to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
- Scoop the Dough: Use a tablespoon to scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Storage Tips
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Banana oatmeal cookies are a delightful combination of taste and nutrition. They are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and provide a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings while supporting your health.
So, next time you have ripe bananas on hand, skip the banana bread and try these delicious banana oatmeal cookies instead!
