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Banana Oatmeal Cookies (Soft, Wholesome & Naturally Sweet)

Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect answer when you want something sweet, comforting, and homemade, yet still aligned with simple, wholesome eating. These cookies rely on the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the hearty texture of oats, creating a treat that feels indulgent without being heavy. Unlike traditional cookies loaded with refined sugar and butter, this recipe focuses on balanced ingredients, clean flavors, and soft, chewy texture. The bananas provide moisture and sweetness, while oats add structure and a satisfying bite. The result is a cookie that works beautifully for breakfast, snacks, lunchboxes, or a light dessert. These cookies are: Easy to make Kid-friendly Free from refined sugar overload Perfect for meal prep Whether you’re baking for your family or just yourself, these Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a reliable, cozy classic you’ll want to make again and again.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ripe bananas very ripe for best sweetness
  • 1½ cups rolled oats
  • ¼ cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
Optional add-ins (use moderately):
  • ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
  • 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
  • All ingredients are simple accessible, and designed to keep the cookies soft, flavorful, and naturally sweet.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Spoon or cookie scoop
  • Optional:
  • Wire rack for cooling

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2:
  1. In a large bowl, peel the bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork until smooth and creamy, with only small lumps remaining.
Step 3:
  1. Add the olive oil, vanilla powder, and cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 4:
  1. Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the oats are evenly coated and a thick batter forms.
Step 5:
  1. If using optional add-ins, gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 6:
  1. Scoop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each portion with the back of a spoon, shaping them into cookie rounds.
Step 7:
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges.
Step 8:
  1. Remove from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freezing:
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
Thaw at room temperature before serving
Reheating:
Warm briefly in the oven or microwave for a soft texture
🥄 Variations
Protein boost: Add a spoon of nut butter
Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free oats
Spiced version: Add nutmeg or pumpkin spice
Breakfast cookies: Add chia or flax seeds
Crunchy texture: Use chopped toasted nuts
Each variation keeps the cookies soft, balanced, and naturally satisfying.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do bananas need to be very ripe?
Yes, ripe bananas provide sweetness and moisture.
Can I use quick oats?
Yes, but rolled oats give better texture.
Are these cookies crunchy or soft?
They are soft and chewy.
Can I make them vegan?
They are naturally vegan as written.
Can I skip the oil?
Oil improves texture, but applesauce can be used instead.
Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Yes, they are mild and naturally sweet.
Can I add chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate works very well.
Why are my cookies flat?
The dough is meant to be soft, not fluffy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales very easily.
What makes these cookies healthy?
Natural sweetness, oats, and simple ingredients.
🏁 Conclusion
These Banana Oatmeal Cookies prove that baking doesn’t need to be complicated to be comforting. With simple ingredients, natural sweetness, and a soft homemade texture, they strike the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent.
Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, these cookies are a reliable favorite for any time of day.