Craving something sweet but trying to stay healthy? Look no further than these delicious Banana Oatmeal Cookies. They’re easy to make, naturally sweetened, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt, these cookies make a great snack or dessert. Here’s how you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Add the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture. Stir until well combined.
If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and dried fruit.
Form the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
Bake the Cookies:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and set.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Benefits:
Bananas: Rich in potassium, fiber, and natural sugars, bananas provide natural sweetness and help keep the cookies moist.
Oats: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, oats are great for digestive health and sustained energy.
Almond Butter: A good source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, almond butter adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
Honey or Maple Syraup: Natural sweeteners that offer antioxidants and trace nutrients, making them a healthier choice compared to refined sugar.
These Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a perfect example of how you can enjoy a sweet treat while still making healthy choices. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re a great option for anyone looking to indulge in a wholesome and nutritious way.
