Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, salt, and optional ingredients (raisins/chocolate chips, chopped nuts, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla extract).
- Combine Well:
- Stir all ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together.
- Form Cookies:
- Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Use the back of a spoon to flatten and shape each cookie.
- Bake Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and set.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your healthy banana oatmeal cookies!
Nutritional Benefits:
- Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, potassium, and fiber, which support heart health and digestion.
- Oats: High in fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins), and minerals (such as manganese), which promote fullness and regulate blood sugar levels.
- Cinnamon: Adds flavor and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Optional Ingredients: Raisins or chocolate chips add sweetness, while nuts provide healthy fats and protein.
Tips:
- Use ripe bananas for sweetness and easier mashing.
- Customize with your favorite mix-ins like dried fruits or seeds.
- These cookies are a nutritious snack or dessert option, perfect for satisfying cravings while providing essential nutrients. Enjoy them as a guilt-free treat for kids and adults alike!
