These Healthy Breakfast Cookies are a yummy way to start your day! Packed with oats, nuts, and sweet fruits, they keep you full and happy. They are like little bites of joy!
Making these cookies is so easy, I whip them up while my coffee brews! I love having them as a quick snack or a tasty breakfast on the go. Plus, they make my mornings feel fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key here as they add natural sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have ripe ones, use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute, about 1/2 cup.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give a great texture. If you need a gluten-free option, certified gluten-free oats work well. Instant oats could be used, but they may change the cookie’s consistency.
Cashew Nuts: I love cashews for their creamy texture. However, you can swap them with almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different flavor. Just avoid nuts if allergies are a concern!
Dried Fruits: Use raisins or cranberries for a sweet touch. You can use any dried fruit like chopped apricots or figs if you prefer a different taste. Just make sure they are unsweetened if you’re watching sugar intake!
Chocolate Chips: The dark chocolate chips add a nice treat element. You can omit them or switch to vegan chocolate chips if you’re looking for a healthier option.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Hold Together?
Getting the right texture is crucial to make sure your cookies don’t fall apart. Here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure your bananas are well-mashed; this creates a cohesive mix.
- Mix the ingredients until they are sticky; this ensures they bind well when baking.
- When scooping the dough onto the baking sheet, compact the dough into balls to help them hold their shape.
- Flatten them gently; this helps them bake evenly. They won’t spread much, so shape is important!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delicious, fulfilling breakfast cookies perfect for any time of the day!
Healthy Breakfast Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts, chopped (or any nuts of choice)
- 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! It takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then another 15-18 minutes to bake. So, in just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of delicious and healthy breakfast cookies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make sure your cookies won’t stick.
2. Mash Your Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they are nice and smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the rolled oats, chopped cashews, raisins (or dried cranberries), chocolate chips (if you’re using them), cinnamon, vanilla extract, honey (if you want extra sweetness), and salt to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and sticky!
4. Shape the Cookies:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small amounts of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to shape them into nice cookie shapes.
5. Bake the Cookies:
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they’re golden brown and seem set. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overbake!
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the cookies out and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
These chewy, wholesome breakfast cookies are perfect for a nutritious start to your day or as a healthy snack any time. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cashews with any nut of your choice, such as almonds, walnuts, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you want a nut-free option. Just chop them up to ensure they mix well!
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?
Yes! This recipe can easily be made vegan by omitting the honey and using maple syrup instead. Both sweeteners still work wonderfully for adding a touch of sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding chia seeds, flaxseeds, or different dried fruits like apricots or figs. Just keep an eye on the overall consistency of the dough if you’re adding more ingredients.
