Banana Oatmeal Cookies

These Banana Oatmeal Cookies are quick, chewy, and quietly healthy — the kind of cookie you can feel good about serving for breakfast or dessert. I developed this version after testing several batches to get the chew and sweetness balanced without loads of added sugar. My kitchen tests taught me a lot about how ripe bananas and the right oat choice change texture.

Why Make This Recipe

• They taste warmly sweet with a tender, chewy crumb from bananas and rolled oats.
• Oats and bananas add fiber and potassium, making them a smarter snack for kids and adults.
• They come together in about 20 minutes and bake in a single sheet pan — perfect for busy mornings.
• They’re very adaptable: swap mix-ins for chocolate, nuts, or dried fruit to suit the occasion.
• Personal insight: I love this recipe because overripe bananas finally get a starring role instead of being tossed.

(If you enjoy banana baked goods, you might also like this coconut-sugar gluten-free banana bread recipe: Coconut-Sugar Gluten-Free Banana Bread.)

Recipe Overview

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 12–14 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
• Total time: 22–25 minutes
• Servings: about 12–14 cookies (based on 1 tbsp dough per cookie)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Method: Mix wet and dry ingredients in a bowl, scoop onto a parchment-lined sheet, bake until edges set.

My Experience Making This Recipe

I tested this recipe across three batches, changing oats from quick to old-fashioned and tweaking banana ripeness. The biggest discovery: old-fashioned rolled oats give a chewier, sturdier cookie while quick oats make a softer, more cake-like result. I also learned that a small amount of melted fat (butter or coconut oil) improves mouthfeel.

How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mash 2 very ripe bananas (about 1 cup), stir in 1 large egg, 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil, and 1 tsp vanilla, then fold in 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Drop 1–2 tbsp portions onto the sheet, flatten slightly, and bake 12–14 minutes until the edges are set and golden; cool on a rack.

Equipment tip: use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies and a cooling rack so bottoms don’t steam.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best chew; quick oats work but change texture.
• Mash bananas thoroughly with a fork or potato masher so moisture distributes evenly.
• If dough seems loose, add oats 1 tbsp at a time until it holds shape; if too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or extra mashed banana.
• Bake on the middle oven rack and rotate the pan once at 8 minutes for even browning.
• For consistent results, measure oats by weight (about 135 g for 1 1/2 cups) and use an oven thermometer to verify temperature.

How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Cookies

• Serve warm with a smear of nut butter or a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea as an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Stack on a dessert platter with fresh berries for casual entertaining.
• Pack into lunchboxes with an insulated ice pack to keep them fresh during the day.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 48 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days in a sealed container. Freeze in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen or chilled cookies at 300°F (150°C) for 6–8 minutes, or microwave a single cookie 15–20 seconds to refresh chewiness.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: use certified gluten-free rolled oats and check other add-ins for cross-contamination.
• Vegan/Dairy-free: swap melted butter for coconut oil and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, chilled 5 minutes).
• Lower-sugar: omit added brown sugar and fold in 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce plus 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup to taste.
• Flavor twists: add 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, 1/3 cup chopped walnuts, or 1/3 cup dried cranberries for variety.

Nutritional Highlights

Bananas provide potassium and natural sweetness while oats contribute soluble fiber (beta-glucan) that supports heart health. These cookies are moderate in calories — expect roughly 100–140 kcal per cookie depending on size and add-ins. Allergens: contains egg and (if using butter) dairy; oats may contain gluten unless certified GF.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Cookies spread too thin: dough too wet or oven too cool; add 1–2 tbsp oats and verify oven at 350°F (175°C).
• Cookies crumble or fall apart: not enough binder — add a small extra mashed banana or a tablespoon of nut butter.
• Burnt bottoms: bake on the middle rack and use parchment or a silicone mat; check oven temp and consider lowering to 325°F (160°C) for dark pans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these without eggs?
A: Yes — a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, chilled) works well. It will be slightly denser but still chewy. Increase oats by a tablespoon if the dough seems wetter.

Q: Are quick oats an acceptable substitute?
A: Yes, but quick oats absorb liquid differently and produce a softer, more cake-like cookie. Reduce quick oats by about 2 tablespoons to avoid a dry texture.

Q: How ripe should the bananas be?
A: Very ripe — brown-speckled bananas are ideal. They mash smoothly and add maximum sweetness and moisture, reducing the need for added sugar.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, chilled dough holds for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature 10 minutes before scooping and bake as directed.

Conclusion

If you want more ideas or variations, consult this Clean Banana Oat Cookies Recipe for a leaner take: Clean Banana Oat Cookies Recipe. For a classic home-baker perspective with useful photos, see Banana Oatmeal Cookies – JoyFoodSunshine. For a lighter three-ingredient version, check Healthy 3-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Cookies – Skinnytaste. If you enjoy bakery-style textures and tips, review Banana Oatmeal Cookies – My Baking Addiction. For another flavorful twist and presentation ideas, visit Banana Oatmeal Cookies – Taffey Bakery.

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