These delicious Banana Oat Cookies are soft, chewy, naturally sweet, and incredibly easy to make! Made with ripe bananas, wholesome rolled oats, and a handful of simple ingredients, they’re perfect for breakfast, healthy snacks, lunchboxes, or satisfying your sweet cravings without refined sugar.
Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–28 minutes
  • Servings: 12 cookies
  • Difficulty: Easy
    Ingredients
  • 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1½ cups rolled oats
  • ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
    Instructions
    Step 1: Prepare the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Set aside.
    Step 2: Mash the Bananas
  4. Peel the ripe bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  5. Mash with a fork until mostly smooth.
  6. Add applesauce, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup.
  7. Mix until combined.
    Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
  8. Add rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
  9. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
  10. Fold in chocolate chips, walnuts, or chia seeds if desired.
  11. Allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes so the oats can absorb some moisture.
    Step 4: Shape the Cookies
  12. Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of mixture for each cookie.
  13. Place onto the prepared baking sheet.
  14. Flatten each portion gently with the back of a spoon.
  15. Leave a little space between cookies.
    Step 5: Bake
  16. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies feel set.
  17. Remove from the oven.
  18. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
  19. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
    Step 6: Serve

Enjoy these soft and chewy banana oat cookies with coffee, tea, milk, or yogurt. They’re delicious warm or chilled!
Nutritional Information
Estimated per cookie, based on 12 cookies without optional walnuts or chocolate chips.

  • Calories: 75 kcal
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fat: 1.5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 25mg
    Nutrition values vary depending on banana size and ingredients used.
    Nut Information & Allergy Details
    Nuts included in the basic recipe:
  • Almonds: No
  • Walnuts: No
  • Pecans: No
  • Cashews: No
  • Pistachios: No
  • Hazelnuts: No
  • Peanuts: No
  • Macadamia nuts: No
    Nut-Free as Written
    Optional nut addition:
  • 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts can be added for extra crunch and healthy fats.

Potential Allergens:

  • Oats: Check for gluten cross-contamination.
  • Chocolate chips: May contain milk, soy, or traces of nuts.
  • Chia seeds: Not tree nuts, but can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
    Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips or omit them.

Nut Allergy Warning: If preparing for someone with a nut allergy, check all ingredient labels and avoid cross-contact with nuts and nut-containing equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Are banana oat cookies healthy?

Yes! They contain bananas and oats, providing fiber, natural sweetness, and energy. They’re a great alternative to many traditional sugar-loaded cookies.

Q2: Can I make these cookies without added sugar?

Absolutely! Simply skip the honey or maple syrup. Ripe bananas provide plenty of natural sweetness.

Q3: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes. Quick oats work well, although the cookies may have a softer texture.

Q4: Why are my banana oat cookies too soft?

Bananas contain moisture. Make sure you measure the oats correctly and allow the cookies to cool completely. You can also bake them for another 2–3 minutes.

Q5: Can I add peanut butter?

Yes! Add 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter for a richer flavor and extra protein. Remember that peanuts are a major allergen.

Q6: Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes. Use maple syrup instead of honey and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Q7: Can I add chocolate chips?

Definitely! Dark chocolate chips make these cookies taste like a naturally sweet dessert.

Q8: How should I store banana oat cookies?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q9: Can I freeze banana oat cookies?

Yes! Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q10: Are these cookies gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free when made with certified gluten-free oats and other verified gluten-free ingredients.

Q11: Can I make these cookies without applesauce?

Yes. Replace the applesauce with an additional ¼ mashed banana, although the cookies may be softer.

Q12: Are these cookies suitable for breakfast?

Yes! Pair them with Greek yogurt, eggs, or a protein shake for a more balanced, protein-rich breakfast.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Cookies

  • Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness.
  • Don’t skip the 5-minute resting time.
  • Flatten the cookies before baking because they won’t spread much in the oven.
  • Add cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
  • Let the cookies cool before storing.
  • For extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or pumpkin seeds.