Name: Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups rolled oats – Old-fashioned oats give the best chewy texture. Quick oats can work (but the cookies will be softer.); ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay tender.; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm (cozy flavor. Optional but recommended.); Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.; 2 large ripe bananas – The riper (the better. They add natural sweetness and moisture.); 1 egg – Binds everything together. Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water for a vegan option.); ¼ cup melted butter – Unsalted is best. Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free cookie.; ¼ cup maple syrup or honey – For added sweetness and a hint of flavor. Maple syrup keeps it vegan.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor and makes the cookies smell irresistible.; ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips – A classic choice for chocolate lovers.; ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans – Add crunch and healthy fats.; ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries – For a chewy (fruity twist.); 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds – For added fiber and texture.

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There’s something comforting about the smell of bananas and oats baking in the oven. It’s warm, inviting, and a little nostalgic. Banana oatmeal cookies bring together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the hearty texture of rolled oats to create a treat that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a kid-approved dessert, or a better-for-you cookie to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, these cookies hit the mark.

What makes them stand out? They’re soft, chewy, and filled with flavor—but without the overload of processed ingredients. No fancy equipment, no complicated steps—just a bowl, a spoon, and a few everyday items from your kitchen. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of cookies that taste homemade in the best possible way.

Perfect for busy families, health-conscious eaters, or anyone trying to use up those browning bananas on the counter, this recipe is a go-to. Keep reading, because you’re about to discover how delicious simple baking can be.

Key Benefits: Why You’ll Love These Banana Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies aren’t just easy to make—they bring a lot to the table. Here’s why they’ve become a favorite for home bakers looking for something quick, wholesome, and satisfying:

1. Naturally Sweetened

Ripe bananas do most of the sweetening, meaning you can cut down on added sugar without losing flavor. It’s a smart choice for anyone keeping an eye on their sugar intake.

2. High in Fiber

Oats are rich in fiber, which makes these cookies more filling than your average treat. That means fewer snacks between meals—and a happier stomach.

3. One-Bowl Simplicity

No need to make a mess in the kitchen. All the ingredients come together in a single bowl, saving you time on both prep and cleanup.

4. Perfect for Kids and Grown-Ups Alike

They’re soft, easy to chew, and naturally sweet—ideal for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or late-night cravings.

5. Customizable for Any Diet

Need a gluten-free version? Swap the oats. Going dairy-free? Use coconut oil instead of butter. Vegan? A flax egg works like a charm. The base is flexible enough to fit your needs.

6. No Chill Time Needed

Unlike many cookie recipes, this dough doesn’t need to rest. Just mix, scoop, and bake. You’ll have warm cookies in under half an hour.

7. Freezer-Friendly

Make a double batch and freeze the extras. They reheat beautifully and are ready whenever you need a quick bite or an on-the-go breakfast.

a broken banana oatmeal cookie showing moist filling with oats and banana on a black table — A close-up look at the chewy center of a healthy banana oatmeal cookie, revealing its moist filling packed with oats and banana.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

These banana oatmeal cookies rely on simple pantry staples that you probably already have. Here’s the full list, including notes for swaps or dietary preferences:

Dry Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats – Old-fashioned oats give the best chewy texture. Quick oats can work, but the cookies will be softer.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay tender.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy flavor. Optional but recommended.
Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.

Wet Ingredients

2 large ripe bananas – The riper, the better. They add natural sweetness and moisture.
1 egg – Binds everything together. Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
¼ cup melted butter – Unsalted is best. Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free cookie.
¼ cup maple syrup or honey – For added sweetness and a hint of flavor. Maple syrup keeps it vegan.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor and makes the cookies smell irresistible.

Optional Add-Ins (Pick Your Favorite)

⅓ cup dark chocolate chips – A classic choice for chocolate lovers.
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans – Add crunch and healthy fats.
¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries – For a chewy, fruity twist.
1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds – For added fiber and texture.

Instructions: How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies

You don’t need any special skills or tools to make these cookies—just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch ready in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and slightly creamy. A few small lumps are okay.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the egg, melted butter (or coconut oil), maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Overhead view of oats, cinnamon, and baking powder added to mashed bananas in a bowl on a black table — Add the dry ingredients to the mashed bananas—rolled oats, cinnamon, and baking powder—for a wholesome cookie dough.

Add the oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but thick.

Step 5: Add Your Mix-Ins

Fold in any extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Keep the total add-ins to about ½ cup for best texture.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave a bit of space between each—these cookies don’t spread much, so you can flatten them slightly if desired.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Overhead view of banana oatmeal cookie dough scooped on a tray, ready for baking — Scoop the cookie dough onto a baking tray and bake until golden and delicious—your healthy treats are almost ready!

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Don’t overbake—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tip: If you’re baking multiple trays, rotate them halfway through for even baking.

Tips and Variations: Make Them Your Way

These banana oatmeal cookies are naturally flexible. Whether you’re tweaking the flavor, texture, or nutritional profile, here are the best tips to help you make the most of every batch:

Pro Tips for the Best Texture

Use overripe bananas: Bananas with lots of brown spots are perfect. They’re softer, sweeter, and mash more easily.
Don’t overmix: Once the oats are added, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
Flatten gently before baking: These cookies won’t spread much, so lightly press the tops if you prefer a flatter shape.

Variations to Try

Make it vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use maple syrup and coconut oil. They’ll still be soft and chewy.
Add a crunch: Stir in sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra texture and nutrients.
Go gluten-free: Just use certified gluten-free oats. No other changes are needed.
Boost the protein: Add 1 tablespoon of nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) to the wet mix for extra richness.
Try different spices: Swap or add spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to give the cookies a new twist.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To store: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To freeze: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or warm briefly in the oven for a fresh-baked feel.

A close-up look of a healthy banana oatmeal cookie

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy Them Anytime

Banana oatmeal cookies are versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re grabbing one for breakfast or sharing a treat after dinner, here are some delicious ways to serve them:

With Breakfast or Brunch

Quick morning boost: Enjoy a cookie or two with your morning coffee or tea for a naturally sweet start to the day.
Yogurt parfait pairing: Crumble a cookie over Greek yogurt with berries and a drizzle of honey.
Smoothie sidekick: Pair your favorite smoothie with a warm cookie for a balanced and energizing meal.

Snack Time Favorites

Lunchbox treat: Pack one in a lunchbox for a healthier dessert that’s kid-approved.
Afternoon snack: Enjoy with a glass of plant-based milk or a matcha latte for a cozy mid-day break.

Sweet Endings

Ice cream sandwich: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream.
Drizzled with nut butter: Warm the cookie slightly and top with peanut or almond butter for extra richness.

Seasonal Pairings

Fall twist: Serve with a warm apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte for a cozy autumn treat.
Holiday platter: Add them to a festive cookie tray alongside shortbread, gingerbread, or chocolate snowballs.

Banana oatmeal cookies are more than just a quick recipe—they’re a smart, wholesome treat made with everyday ingredients. With ripe bananas, hearty oats, and the option to add chocolate, nuts, or fruit, these cookies strike the perfect balance between indulgent and nourishing.

They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast cookie, a lunchbox treat, or a comforting snack, this recipe has you covered.

So the next time your bananas are getting too ripe, skip the banana bread and give these cookies a try. They’re naturally sweet, delightfully chewy, and ready in minutes.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to double the batch—these tend to disappear fast!

Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Soft, chewy banana oatmeal cookies made with natural ingredients—perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast treat that’s quick to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 24

Course Breakfast, Cookies, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Cookies

Calories 120 kcal