Introduction
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with these Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies! They are not only quick and easy to make, but they also offer a wholesome treat that the entire family will adore. The sweetness of ripe bananas harmonizes beautifully with the nutty richness of peanut butter, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, the addition of rolled oats gives them a chewy texture that’s truly satisfying. Ideal for a midday snack or a healthy dessert, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 12 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
- Add in the baking soda and salt, mixing until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough for a delightful surprise in every cookie!
- Using a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized amounts of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown.
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts to the dough. If you’re looking to make these cookies vegan, simply use maple syrup in place of honey. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long!
Cooking Techniques
These cookies are incredibly forgiving and are a great introduction to baking for beginners. Make sure your bananas are perfectly ripe, as this will enhance the sweetness and flavor of the cookies. If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, remove them from the oven right at the 10-minute mark for a slightly underbaked feel. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool!
FAQ
Can I use other nut butters?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be great substitutes if you want to switch it up.
What if I don’t have rolled oats?
You can use quick oats, but they may change the texture slightly. Avoid steel-cut oats, as they require longer cooking times.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Once they are completely cooled, you can store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect blend of health and indulgence, making them a fantastic choice whether you’re in need of a quick snack or a delightful dessert. With every bite, you get the natural sweetness of bananas, the richness of peanut butter, and the satisfying chew of oats. They’re not just cookies; they’re a delightful way to make snack time healthier and happier. Happy baking!