Three-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Introduction
Looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious treat that fits perfectly into your busy schedule? These Three-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Cookies are the answer! With only three ingredients, these cookies are quick to prepare and make for a perfect snack or dessert. They are naturally sweetened, full of fiber, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of this easy and nutritious recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 Mashed Overripe Bananas
- Bananas should be overripe for optimal sweetness and ease of mashing.
- 1 Cup Old Fashioned or Quick Oats
- Either type of oats works well; old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats yield a softer cookie.
- 2 Tablespoons PB2 with Cocoa
- PB2 with Cocoa adds a subtle chocolate flavor and a boost of protein without the extra calories of regular peanut butter.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 50
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 4g
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork or Potato Masher
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking Sheet
- Cooking Spray or Parchment Paper
- Tablespoon for Scooping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Grease a baking sheet lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until they reach a smooth, lump-free consistency. Overripe bananas are key as they provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies.
Step 4: Add the Oats
Add 1 cup of old-fashioned or quick oats to the mashed bananas. Stir well until the oats are fully incorporated, creating a thick batter.
Step 5: Incorporate PB2 with Cocoa
Add 2 tablespoons of PB2 with Cocoa to the banana-oat mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure the PB2 is evenly distributed throughout the batter. This ingredient adds a delicious chocolate-peanut butter flavor and boosts the protein content of the cookies.
Step 6: Let the Batter Rest
Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the oats absorb the moisture from the bananas, resulting in a better texture for the cookies.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Each scoop should be about 1 tablespoon of batter, which ensures uniform cookie sizes and even baking.
Step 8: Flatten the Cookies
Gently pat down each scoop of dough to flatten it slightly. This helps the cookies bake evenly and achieve a consistent texture.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes. The cookies are done when they are lightly golden and firm to the touch.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these cookies warm or at room temperature.
Additional Tips for Success
Ingredient Substitutions
- Bananas: If you’re out of bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- PB2 with Cocoa: Regular PB2 or any powdered peanut butter can be used. For a nut-free version, consider using powdered sunflower seed butter.
Enhancements
- Add-ins: Enhance the flavor and texture by adding a handful of mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts to the batter.
- Spices: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth and depth of flavor.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
These Three-Ingredient Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a fantastic option for a quick, healthy snack or dessert. They are easy to make, naturally sweetened, and packed with fiber. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or just looking for a nutritious treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and feel good about the wholesome ingredients you’re indulging in.