Banana cookies are a delicious way to use up ripe bananas while making a treat that feels both comforting and a little healthier than traditional cookies. With their soft texture, warm flavor, and natural sweetness, banana cookies are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a guilt-free dessert.
The magic of banana cookies starts with overripe bananas. The more brown spots, the better. These bring moisture and natural sweetness, so you can cut back on added sugar. When mixed with ingredients like oats, cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of butter or oil, they create a dough that bakes into soft, chewy cookies with just the right amount of sweetness.
One of the best things about banana cookies is how adaptable they are. You can stir in chocolate chips for a classic treat, add chopped nuts for crunch, or toss in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries. Looking for a healthier option? Use whole wheat flour, swap in maple syrup or honey, or skip the sugar altogether for a more wholesome version.
They also make a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Many banana cookie recipes can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with a few simple substitutions. You can even make them vegan by replacing eggs with more mashed banana or a flax egg.
Banana cookies are easy to make and bake quickly. There’s no need to chill the dough, and you probably already have the ingredients in your kitchen. They store well, stay soft for days, and taste even better the next day.
Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping school snacks, or just craving a cookie that feels a little more nourishing, banana cookies are a go-to. They’re cozy, flavorful, and just the right mix of sweet and satisfying.
This recipe is made by Joeanna A Wilson Harrell.
Ingredients
- 2 bananas (large)
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
- 4 dried cranberries per cookie
- 4 dried blueberries per cookie
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the 2 large bananas until smooth.
- Add 1 cup of oatmeal and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Mix well.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming each portion into a rounded cookie shape.
- Place 4 dried cranberries and 4 dried blueberries on each cookie, pressing them slightly into the dough.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
- Take out and cool and put in a glass jar. Enjoy!