Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a treat that’s delicious, wholesome, and unbelievably easy to make, Banana Oatmeal Cookies are about to become your new go-to. These cookies transform humble pantry staples into soft, satisfying bites that straddle the line between hearty breakfast and guilt-free snack. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas marries perfectly with chewy oats and a hint of cinnamon, making each cookie a little love letter to comfort food. The best part? With only a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a batch ready in just 20 minutes—no fancy equipment or baking expertise needed.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Banana Oatmeal Cookies lies in their simplicity. Every ingredient is intentional, delivering unbeatable flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Ripe bananas: The riper, the better! Mashed bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, giving these cookies their signature soft texture.
• Old-fashioned oats: These create a chewy, satisfying base and soak up the banana for a hearty bite. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if that’s a concern for you.
• Ground cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon brings warmth and depth, making these cookies impossibly comforting.
• Vanilla extract: Just half a teaspoon goes a long way, rounding out the flavors and enhancing the cookies’ aroma.
• Mini chocolate chips or raisins (optional): Stir in a handful for a bit of gooey chocolate or bursts of fruity sweetness in every bite.
• Pinch of salt: It’s the tiny detail that awakens all the flavors and keeps your cookies from tasting flat.

How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Get the Oven and Pan Ready

Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure a perfectly even bake. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the Banana Oatmeal Cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a total breeze.

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth with a few little chunks for texture. Next, add the oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well combined—the mixture will be thick but should hold its shape.

Step 3: Add Your Extras (Optional)

If you’re including chocolate chips or raisins, fold them into the batter at this stage. This little boost gives your Banana Oatmeal Cookies an extra pop of texture and flavor, but trust me, they’re just as tasty without.

Step 4: Shape and Flatten

Scoop out heaping tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and drop them onto your prepared baking sheet. Give each mound a gentle press with the back of your spoon or fingers—this helps the cookies bake up evenly and ensures that golden edge.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cookies look set and just turn golden on the edges. Let them cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This short rest helps them firm up so you get that lovely, soft bite every time.

How to Serve Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, try sprinkling these cookies with a dusting of cinnamon or a pinch of flaky sea salt as soon as they come out of the oven. A quick drizzle of melted chocolate takes them straight into dessert territory, or go classic and leave them beautifully rustic and unadorned.

Side Dishes

Pair Banana Oatmeal Cookies with a steaming mug of coffee for an energizing breakfast or enjoy with a cold glass of almond milk for a satisfying snack. They’re dreamy alongside Greek yogurt and fresh fruit if you’re making a wholesome breakfast plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Banana Oatmeal Cookies into breakfast sandwiches by slathering a bit of nut butter between two cookies. For a potluck or brunch, stack them high on a pretty rustic platter, or tuck them into parchment wrappers for lunchbox treats. They’re also adorable packaged up as homemade gifts!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Banana Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Since they’re extra moist from the bananas, storing them in a single layer or with parchment between will help them stay fresh and tender.

Freezing

These cookies freeze like a dream! Arrange completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature whenever you need a quick snack or on-the-go breakfast.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked magic, pop a Banana Oatmeal Cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. They’ll be irresistibly soft, as if you just pulled them from the oven!

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Steel-cut oats need much longer to soften and won’t give the same chewy texture as old-fashioned oats. For best results, stick with old-fashioned or quick oats in your Banana Oatmeal Cookies.

Are these cookies really vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan and can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always double-check your labels to make sure your oats are safe if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

Can I add extra ingredients like nuts or coconut?

Yes, and it’s a great way to make these cookies your own! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even shredded coconut play beautifully with the flavors and add delightful crunch and richness to Banana Oatmeal Cookies.

How can I make my cookies even sweeter?

If you prefer things a little sweeter, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the batter, or toss in a few more chocolate chips or dried fruit. The bananas do most of the heavy lifting for sweetness, so adjust to your taste!

Can I double the recipe?

Certainly! This recipe scales up effortlessly, so if you’re baking for a crowd (or just want extra on hand), simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving something easy, wholesome, and heartwarming, give these Banana Oatmeal Cookies a try. They’re a true crowd-pleaser—simple, endlessly customizable, and totally delicious whether it’s breakfast time or you need a midday pick-me-up. Happy baking!

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