Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
If you are looking for a wholesome treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, these Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies are exactly what you need. Bursting with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and the comforting flavors of oats and cinnamon, these cookies strike the perfect balance between nourishing and indulgent. With melty chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts adding delightful texture, they’re an easy go-to snack or dessert that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and made with pantry staples, making this recipe both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these cookies is in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in building the rich texture, subtle sweetness, and hearty flavor that make these cookies unforgettable.
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient that provides natural sweetness and moisture, keeping these cookies soft and chewy.
- 1/2 cup almond butter: Adds healthy fats and a creamy, nutty depth; peanut butter works just as well if preferred.
- 3 tbsp maple syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor without overpowering the banana’s sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and richness to the cookie dough.
- 2 cups rolled oats: The hearty base that adds texture and fiber, absorb the moisture to create the perfect cookie structure.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy spice note that pairs beautifully with banana and chocolate.
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips: The classic touch of melty chocolate that makes these cookies irresistible.
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts: Provides crunch and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness, rounding out the flavor profile.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Before diving into mixing, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend brings moisture and flavor that will bind all your dry ingredients into luscious cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, salt, cinnamon (if using), chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts. This not only disperses the flavors evenly but also helps avoid overmixing the wet and dry ingredients later.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is combined. The oats will soak up the moisture from the banana and almond butter, resulting in a dough that’s just the right consistency for cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop portions of dough onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press down on each mound to slightly flatten it, helping the cookies bake evenly and take on that inviting classic cookie shape.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. The aroma of bananas, chocolate, and cinnamon filling your kitchen will be your first sign that these cookies are ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt or extra chopped walnuts on top right after baking for an elegant flavor boost and added texture contrast. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate can also enhance the chocolatey goodness.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a wholesome breakfast twist, enjoy them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Creative Ways to Present
Make an inviting dessert platter by stacking the cookies with slices of fresh bananas and small bowls of nut butter or chocolate spread. You can also sandwich two cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in between for an irresistible sweet treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and soft, perfect for snacking anytime.
Freezing
To preserve their freshness longer, freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying to keep their soft texture intact.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm cookie, reheat in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. This revives their softness and melts the chocolate chips nicely.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?
Absolutely! Peanut butter works perfectly in this recipe and will give the cookies a slightly different but equally delicious nutty flavor.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, these Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies are naturally gluten-free and great for those with sensitivities.
What’s the best way to mash the bananas?
Use a fork to mash the bananas thoroughly until smooth with minimal lumps, ensuring even moisture distribution throughout the dough.
Can I omit the walnuts?
Sure! If you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies, leaving walnuts out won’t affect the bake much. You might want to add extra chocolate chips or even some dried fruit for extra texture.
How do I make the cookies crispier?
For a crispier cookie, flatten them a bit more before baking and extend the baking time by a couple of minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies have quickly become one of my absolute favorites to bake and share. They come together so easily and deliver that perfect blend of wholesome nutrition and dessert-worthy flavor. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll be your new go-to for smart snacking or sharing with loved ones. So go on, grab those bananas and oats and whip up a batch of these cozy cookies—you won’t regret it!
Print
Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a healthy and delicious treat made with ripe bananas, almond butter, and rolled oats. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and studded with chocolate chips and walnuts, these cookies are moist, chewy, and perfect for a guilt-free snack or breakfast on the go. They are gluten-free and made without refined sugars, making them a wholesome choice for everyone.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (approx 3/4 cup mashed)
- 1/2 cup almond butter (can substitute peanut butter)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, salt, optional cinnamon, chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts ensuring even distribution of the ingredients.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet banana mixture into the dry oat mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are combined and a dough forms.
- Form Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, drop dollops of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently press each cookie down with your hands to slightly flatten them for even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter if preferred.
- Use gluten-free oats if you need to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Optional cinnamon adds a warm spice but can be omitted if desired.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts and use sunflower seed butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: banana oatmeal cookies, healthy cookies, gluten-free cookies, chocolate chip cookies, almond butter cookies, maple syrup cookies, banana snacks
