Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a healthy yet delicious cookie that satisfies your sweet cravings without the guilt, then look no further! Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies with no refined sugar are exactly what you need. These cookies combine the hearty goodness of oats, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and the nutritional benefits of chia seeds to create a wholesome treat that will keep you energized and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack for your afternoon tea, a post-workout bite, or a wholesome breakfast option, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Not only do they taste amazing, but they are also free from refined sugars, making them a great option for anyone trying to reduce their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so even novice bakers can whip up a batch with ease.
Why You’ll Love Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies
What sets this oatmeal banana chia cookie recipe apart is how it manages to strike the perfect balance between health and indulgence. Firstly, the use of bananas as a natural sweetener eliminates the need for refined sugars. Bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also pack a punch of potassium, fiber, and vitamins. In addition, the oats in the recipe add a chewy texture, while providing fiber to help keep you feeling full longer.
Chia seeds are another powerhouse ingredient, adding omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and a burst of energy. Together, these ingredients come together to form a cookie that tastes like a treat but provides a nutritional boost with every bite. Furthermore, since these cookies don’t contain refined sugar, they are naturally lower in glycemic index, which means they won’t spike your blood sugar levels the way traditional cookies might. The addition of vanilla extract and cinnamon gives the cookies a warm, comforting flavor, making them even more irresistible.
Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. You can add in your favorite mix-ins such as nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips. So whether you prefer your cookies to have an extra crunch or a burst of sweetness, there’s always room for creativity. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of wholesome, delicious cookies that are as good for you as they are for your taste buds!
Ingredients
To make these nutritious Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies with no refined sugar, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- ¼ cup walnuts or almonds, chopped (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (optional for added moisture)
- ½ tsp baking powder (optional for a slightly puffed texture)
- A handful of dark chocolate chips (optional)
These ingredients are simple, healthy, and easy to find. The mashed bananas serve as the primary sweetener, while the oats provide the chewy texture and heartiness. Chia seeds offer a nutritional boost, and the spices such as cinnamon bring warmth and flavor to the cookies. If you’d like, you can add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
For a nutritious and satisfying start to your day, check out these delicious healthy breakfast cookies from Ambitious Kitchen, perfect for those on the go!
Necessary Tools
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- A mixing bowl (large enough to combine all the ingredients)
- A spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- A fork (for mashing the bananas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- An oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
With these simple tools, you’ll be all set to create these delicious cookies in no time!
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This recipe is highly versatile, so feel free to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few swaps and additions you can make:
- Nut Butters: While almond butter is used in this recipe for a smooth texture and nutty flavor, you can easily swap it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if you prefer a different flavor or have nut allergies.
- Sweetener Options: If you prefer a slightly sweeter cookie, you can add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup, honey, or coconut nectar. However, this recipe is designed to keep the sweetness natural, so the bananas should be sufficient on their own for most.
- Dried Fruit: Feel free to use dried cherries, blueberries, or apricots in place of raisins or cranberries. Just make sure to chop the fruit into small pieces so it blends well with the dough.
- Add-Ins: If you love chocolate, you can add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Alternatively, chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or pistachios will add an extra layer of crunch.
These swaps allow you to tailor the recipe to your liking while still maintaining its healthy foundation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and tools, let’s move on to the easy steps for preparing these Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies with no refined sugar.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out golden brown and delicious.
- Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be. This step is crucial as the mashed bananas will serve as both the sweetener and the moisture in the dough.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add the almond butter, vanilla extract, and applesauce (if using) to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until well combined. The almond butter will give the cookies a rich, nutty flavor, while the vanilla and cinnamon will add warmth.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Next, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder (if using) to the wet mixture. Stir everything together until well incorporated.
- Scoop the Dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overbaking, as they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will be soft when first out of the oven but will firm up as they cool.
Pro Tips for Success of Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be. Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal for this recipe, as they provide more natural sweetness.
- Customize the Texture: If you prefer your cookies to be chewier, use fewer oats. For crunchier cookies, you can add more oats or incorporate chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
- Don’t Skip the Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are not just for texture—they also help bind the dough together and provide extra nutrients. They also absorb moisture, so don’t omit them!
Serving Suggestions
These Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies are perfect for various occasions. They can be served:
- As a quick breakfast option paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
- As an afternoon snack to keep your energy levels up.
- As a wholesome dessert after a light meal.
You can also serve them with a dollop of nut butter or a spread of your favorite jam for an extra treat!
If you’re looking for another tasty and healthy treat, try this cookie dough bark with almonds and cacao, a deliciously indulgent yet nutritious snack from Eco Cookie!
Storing and Reheating Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies
To store these cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 100
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g (from the banana and optional dried fruit)
These nutritional facts make these cookies an excellent, guilt-free snack option to keep you energized throughout the day.
FAQs – Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies
1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
2. How can I make these cookies vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as long as you use plant-based ingredients like almond butter and non-dairy applesauce.
3. Can I substitute chia seeds for flaxseeds?
Yes, you can substitute chia seeds with flaxseeds in equal amounts for a similar texture and nutritional value.
4. How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
5. Can I add protein powder to these cookies?
Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to boost the protein content, but it may alter the texture of the dough slightly.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal Banana Chia Cookies with no refined sugar are a fantastic, wholesome snack that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, guilt-free treat. With simple ingredients, minimal effort, and plenty of room for customization, these cookies can easily become a regular in your baking rotation. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert or an energy-packed snack, these cookies hit the mark every time.
