These Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect combination of chewy, sweet, and healthy! Made with ripe bananas, rolled oats, and a touch of peanut butter, they’re naturally sweetened and packed with fiber and protein. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or need a healthier dessert option, these cookies fit the bill. Plus, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors—making them an ideal treat for anyone looking for a guilt-free, delicious snack!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats (use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version)

• 4 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp nutmeg

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips

• A pinch of sea salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 medium bananas, mashed

• 2 tbsp peanut butter (or any nut butter)

• ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan version)

• ¼ cup Greek yogurt

Directions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Then, add the peanut butter, honey, and Greek yogurt. Stir to combine into a smooth mixture.

4. Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients:
   Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick but scoopable.

5. Form the Cookies:
   Use a medium scoop (about 3 tbsp) to scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each scoop slightly with a spoon.

6. Bake:
   Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown on the edges. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

7. Cool & Serve:
   Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Nutrients (Approx. per serving — 1 cookie)

• Calories: 167 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 26g

• Protein: 4.1g

• Fat: 5.7g

• Saturated Fat: 1.9g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.3g

• Cholesterol: 0.8mg

• Sodium: 66mg

• Fiber: 3.9g

• Sugar: 12g

The Health Benefits of Banana Oatmeal Cookies

What makes these Banana Oatmeal Cookies stand out is the way they combine delicious flavors with key nutritional benefits. Bananas, the main ingredient in this recipe, are a fantastic source of potassium, a mineral that supports heart health and helps regulate blood pressure. They are also rich in vitamin C and fiber, which contribute to immune system support and digestive health. The natural sweetness of the ripe bananas helps to cut down on added sugar, making these cookies a healthier choice compared to many traditional baked goods.

Rolled oats are another star ingredient in this recipe. Oats are well-known for their health benefits, particularly their ability to improve heart health. They are a great source of soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels and promote healthy digestion. Oats also provide long-lasting energy, making them an ideal base for these cookies, as they offer both a satisfying texture and substantial nutritional value.

The addition of peanut butter in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats and protein to the cookies. Peanut butter is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health, and it provides a great source of protein, making these cookies a more filling and balanced snack. Additionally, peanut butter contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

Why These Cookies Are Great for Different Diets

One of the best features of these Banana Oatmeal Cookies is their versatility, as they fit into several different diets. First, they are naturally gluten-free, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. This makes them suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, without compromising on taste or texture.

For those who are dairy-free, these cookies can easily be made without dairy by substituting Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt. Furthermore, the recipe uses honey for sweetening, but it can also be swapped with maple syrup for a fully vegan option. This flexibility ensures that the cookies can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Whether you are following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diet, these Banana Oatmeal Cookies offer a delicious and nutritious option without needing to rely on artificial ingredients or heavily processed foods. By making these cookies at home, you can feel good about what you’re eating, knowing exactly what goes into your treat.

A Great Source of Protein and Fiber

These cookies are not just a sweet treat—they are a source of protein and fiber that can help keep you full and energized throughout the day. The oats provide fiber, which is essential for digestive health and maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Fiber helps promote a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating later on. Additionally, the protein from the peanut butter and Greek yogurt ensures that these cookies provide a more balanced snack, helping to prevent energy crashes and maintain steady blood sugar levels.

With 4.1 grams of protein and 3.9 grams of fiber per cookie, these treats are much more nutritious than many other cookies or snack options that are low in protein and fiber. They are a great choice for a post-workout snack, a quick breakfast, or as an afternoon pick-me-up, offering the right balance of macronutrients to fuel your body.

Warm Spices for Comforting Flavor

Banana Oatmeal Cookies are filled with warm, comforting flavors thanks to the cinnamon and nutmeg, which give these cookies a cozy, fall-inspired vibe. Cinnamon, in particular, is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it an ideal addition to any healthy snack. Nutmeg, while often used in small amounts, provides a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas and enhances the overall taste of the cookies.

These warm spices don’t just elevate the flavor—they also provide some health benefits. Both cinnamon and nutmeg have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall well-being. These spices also have a soothing, calming effect, making these cookies the perfect snack to enjoy while relaxing at home or unwinding after a busy day.

A Versatile Cookie for Any Occasion

Banana Oatmeal Cookies are incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences or dietary needs. For those who like a little extra sweetness, adding dark chocolate chips is a great option. Dark chocolate not only adds rich flavor but also contains antioxidants, which contribute to heart health and overall wellness. It’s a perfect complement to the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.

These cookies are also great for meal prep. You can bake a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in an airtight container to enjoy throughout the week. They’re perfect for packing in lunchboxes, taking to work, or having as a pre- or post-workout snack. Because they are naturally sweetened with bananas and honey (or maple syrup), you don’t have to worry about refined sugars, making them a healthier choice for those looking to cut down on processed sugar intake.

If you have children, these cookies are an excellent option for a healthier treat. They’re easy to make, and the natural sweetness of the bananas makes them appealing to kids. The added fiber and protein ensure that they provide a more satisfying snack compared to traditional store-bought cookies that are often high in sugar and low in nutritional value.

Tips for Making the Perfect Banana Oatmeal Cookies

While the recipe for Banana Oatmeal Cookies is quite simple, there are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. First, be sure to use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter they will be, which is essential for reducing the need for added sugar. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because they’ll provide the ideal natural sweetness.

It’s also important to measure the oats carefully. Using too much oats can result in dry, crumbly cookies, while too little may cause the cookies to spread too much during baking. Stick to the measurements for the best consistency.

If the cookie dough feels too sticky, you can lightly oil your hands with coconut oil or olive oil when shaping the cookies to make the process easier. Make sure to give the cookies enough space on the baking sheet, as they may spread slightly while baking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a healthy, delicious, and versatile treat that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of dietary restrictions. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, these cookies offer a more nutritious alternative to traditional cookies without compromising on taste. The combination of natural sweetness from bananas, the comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the healthy fats and protein from peanut butter makes these cookies the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthier dessert option, or a delicious post-workout bite, Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect choice to satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.