Start your morning on the right note with these Healthy Breakfast Cookies. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, bananas, and nuts, these cookies are perfect for busy mornings or as a nutritious snack. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, they are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth while fueling your day.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, salt, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chips (if using) to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a ball. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly. Repeat with the remaining dough, spacing the cookies about 1 inch apart.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Healthy Breakfast Cookies are:
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with nutrients and fiber
- Customizable to suit your taste
- Perfect for meal prep
- Kid-friendly and great for on-the-go snacks
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Customize the mix-ins: Feel free to add seeds, coconut flakes, or any other favorite ingredients.
- Don’t overbake: These cookies are best when slightly soft and chewy, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate lover’s version: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough and increase the chocolate chips.
- Protein boost: Mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra energy kick.
- Nut-free option: Replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
- With coffee: Pair these cookies with your morning coffee for a satisfying start to the day.
- On-the-go snack: Pack them in a baggie for a quick snack at work or school.
- As a dessert: Warm them slightly and enjoy with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze these cookies?
- Yes, these cookies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
- How long will these cookies last?
- These cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes, use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.