Healthy Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Soft, chewy, naturally sweet & kid-approved
These healthy banana oatmeal cookies are the kind of snack you feel really good about making. They’re naturally sweetened, made with pantry staples, and come together in one bowl. No refined sugar, no flour, and totally customizable depending on what you have on hand.
Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or those “I need something sweet but nourishing” moments.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, smashed
3 TB maple syrup
1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew works great)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/3 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, smash the bananas until mostly smooth.
3. Stir in the maple syrup, nut butter, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Add the oats, salt, cinnamon, chocolate chips, and walnuts (if using). Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and place on the baking sheet. Gently flatten with the back of a spoon (they will not spread much).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on the edges.
7. Let cool slightly before enjoying - though they are amazing warm!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. You can also store them at room temperature, but they won't last as long.
Food that Nourishes (Not Just Fills)
I truly believe food can be both healing and joyful. Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring, restrictive, or complicated. Recipes like this remind me that nourishing food can also be comforting, familiar, and even a little fun.
Whether you’re making these for your kids, for guests, or just for yourself, these cookies are a small way to care for your body while still enjoying something sweet.
Make Them On Your Own
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is:
Swap chocolate chips for raisins or chopped dates
Use sunflower seed butter to make them nut-free
Add shredded coconut or chia seeds for extra texture
However you make them, I hope these cookies bring a little warmth into your kitchen.