Healthy Banana Oats Cookies with Dark Chocolate and Nuts Recipe

Introduction

These healthy cookies without added sugar are a delightful treat made with ripe bananas and natural ingredients. They combine wholesome oats, dark chocolate, and a touch of cinnamon for a sweet snack that everyone can enjoy guilt-free.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 cups oats
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup raisins or nuts
• 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (e.g., Lily’s brand)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and unsweetened applesauce. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
3. Step 3: Add the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the banana mixture.
4. Step 4: Stir in the oats until fully combined with the wet ingredients.
5. Step 5: Pour in the almond milk to moisten the mixture, then fold in the raisins or nuts and dark chocolate chunks evenly.
6. Step 6: Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
7. Step 7: Spoon out portions of the cookie mixture onto the baking sheet, flattening each portion slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand.
8. Step 8: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they are firm to the touch and lightly golden around the edges.
9. Step 9: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Step 10: Once cooled, serve and enjoy your healthy, naturally sweetened cookies!

Tips & Variations

• For extra texture, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans instead of raisins.
• Use gluten-free oats if you need this recipe to be gluten-free.
• If you prefer a bit more sweetness, consider adding a small amount of honey or maple syrup.
• Swap the dark chocolate chunks for dried cranberries or coconut flakes for a different flavor twist.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any plant-based or dairy milk you prefer. Just use the same quantity for best results.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These cookies are made with natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients, making them a healthy and kid-friendly snack option.

Healthy Banana Oats Cookies with Dark Chocolate and Nuts Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 144 reviews

These Healthy Cookies Without Sugar are a delicious and nutritious treat made with natural sweeteners like ripe bananas and unsweetened applesauce. Packed with oats, raisins or nuts, and dark chocolate chunks, these cookies provide a wholesome snack option that satisfies your sweet tooth without any added sugar.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 18–20 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups oats
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Mix-ins

• 1/4 cup raisins or nuts
• 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (e.g., Lily’s brand)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (177°C) to ensure it’s ready when you’re done preparing the cookie dough.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas and unsweetened applesauce. Stir them together thoroughly until evenly mixed.
3. Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon until the flavors are well incorporated throughout the mixture.
4. Incorporate Oats: Add the 2 cups of oats to the banana mixture and stir until the oats are fully combined and coated with the wet ingredients.
5. Add Almond Milk and Mix-ins: Pour the almond milk into the mixture to moisten the oats slightly. Then fold in the raisins or nuts and dark chocolate chunks, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking during baking.
7. Form Cookies: Spoon out portions of the cookie mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each portion slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand to form cookie shapes.
8. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and lightly golden on the edges.
9. Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, your healthy, naturally sweetened cookies are ready to be served. Enjoy this wholesome treat any time!

Notes

• Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and softer texture.
• Feel free to substitute raisins with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans based on preference.
• For a nut-free version, omit nuts and use only raisins or a nut-free chocolate alternative.
• If you prefer a crunchier cookie, reduce the almond milk slightly to lessen the moisture.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Keywords: healthy cookies, sugar-free cookies, banana cookies, oat cookies, gluten-free optional, natural sweetener, dark chocolate cookies, healthy dessert