Name: Chewy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium banana); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats; Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or raisins

Delightfully soft and chewy, these Chewy banana oatmeal cookies are a perfect treat for any time of day. Made with ripe bananas and hearty oats, they strike a balance between indulgence and a healthier option for snacking or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines wholesome ingredients with a comforting texture. The ripe bananas add natural sweetness, while the oats create a satisfying chewiness. These cookies are easy to make, customizable with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter, softened

granulated sugar

packed brown sugar

large egg

vanilla extract

mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium banana)

all-purpose flour

baking soda

salt

ground cinnamon

old-fashioned oats

chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or raisins (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed banana until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

Fold in the oats and any optional add-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or raisins, to the dough.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft and chewy.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add a mix of chocolate chips and cocoa nibs for a rich, chocolaty twist.

Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch and depth.

Fruity Kick: Swap the chocolate chips for dried cranberries or cherries to complement the banana.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm spice profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To refresh frozen cookies, I let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

Related Recipes:

Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture might be slightly less chewy since quick oats are more processed than old-fashioned oats.

What can I use instead of butter?

I like substituting coconut oil or margarine in equal amounts for a dairy-free version.

Can I make these cookies without sugar?

You can try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead, though the texture may vary slightly.

How do I ensure my cookies stay chewy?

Be careful not to overbake them. The edges should be golden while the centers remain soft.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles well, making it great for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Conclusion

These chewy banana oatmeal cookies are a delightful way to use up ripe bananas and make a comforting treat that everyone will love. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try them today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness!

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