Save to Pinterest The first time I made these cookies, I was running late for a morning meeting and needed something portable. I mashed the bananas a bit too aggressively, leaving some chunks, but that turned out to be the best accident. Those little pockets of banana made the cookies feel homemade in a way that perfect puree never could.
My sister used to keep a batch on her counter for post-workout snacks, and I started doing the same after seeing how convenient they were. Now they are my go-to when I want something sweet that does not leave me crashing an hour later.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: These give structure and that satisfying chewiness. Quick oats work too, but the texture becomes softer.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Use a good quality one here since it is the main flavor. Dutch-processed gives a deeper, smoother chocolate taste.
- Baking powder: Just enough to lift the cookies so they are not dense.
- Ground cinnamon: It pairs surprisingly well with chocolate, adding warmth without overpowering.
- Salt: A pinch makes the chocolate taste more intense.
- Ripe bananas: The more spotted the better. They provide all the sweetness structure and moisture.
- Maple syrup or honey: Just a little extra sweetness and helps with browning.
- Melted coconut oil or butter: Coconut oil keeps them dairy-free. Butter adds a richer flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Do not skip it. It rounds out the chocolate flavor.
- Dark chocolate chips: The bitterness balances the sweet banana perfectly.
- Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch. Optional but nice.
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- Combine oats cocoa powder baking powder cinnamon and salt in a large bowl.
- Mash the bananas:
- Mash them until mostly smooth with some small chunks remaining then stir in maple syrup coconut oil and vanilla.
- Combine everything:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts.
- Shape the cookies:
- Scoop heaping tablespoons onto the baking sheet and flatten each slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake until set:
- Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until they feel firm to the touch.
- Cool completely:
- Let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack.
Save to Pinterest These became a regular in our house during a particularly busy month when sit-down breakfasts felt impossible. My partner started grabbing two every morning, and now I double the batch just to keep up.
Making Them Ahead
They keep well in the fridge for up to five days and actually taste better on day two or three when the flavors have melded. You can also freeze them individually wrapped and warm one in the microwave for thirty seconds.
Adjusting the Texture
If you want them softer and more cake-like add another tablespoon of maple syrup. For a denser cookie reduce the oats slightly and add a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter to the wet ingredients.
Serving Ideas
These are versatile enough to work as breakfast a snack or even dessert. I have served them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for friends who swore they were eating regular cookies.
- Spread a little almond butter on top for extra protein
- Dip in warm milk or plant milk for a comforting treat
- Crumble over yogurt with fresh berries
Save to Pinterest Simple enough for a weekday morning special enough to share. That is the sweet spot.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What gives these cookies their chocolate flavor?
Unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips infuse rich chocolate taste throughout the cookie.
- → Can I substitute the bananas used in this dish?
Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas work best for optimal texture.
- → How do I keep these cookies moist yet firm?
The combination of mashed bananas and oats balances moisture, while baking until just set ensures a tender texture.
- → Are there suitable alternatives for sweeteners?
Maple syrup or honey can be used to add subtle sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- → Can nuts be added to this preparation?
Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can be folded in for extra crunch and nutrition.