Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I love starting my day with a nutritious yet delicious treat, and these Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies are the perfect solution. They combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty flavor of almonds, creating a satisfying cookie that feels good to eat. Each cookie is packed with wholesome ingredients, providing a delightful breakfast option or snack. I found that these cookies are not only easy to make but also adaptable to suit my tastes, whether I want to add chocolate chips or a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.
When I first decided to create these Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies, I wanted something wholesome yet easy to whip up for hectic mornings. After experimenting with ingredients, I realized that using mashed bananas as a natural sweetener not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor. The almonds provide a delightful crunch, making each bite satisfying.
One of my favorite tips is to let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container; this helps them maintain their chewy texture. These cookies have quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I love how versatile they are!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Nutritious and filling, perfect for breakfast or a snack
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits
- Naturally sweetened with bananas for a healthier option
The Role of Bananas and Almond Butter
Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in these breakfast cookies, providing natural sweetness and moisture without the need for refined sugars. When mashed, they create a creamy base that binds the other ingredients together. The ripeness of the bananas is key; aiming for bananas with brown spots ensures they are sweet and easy to mash, enhancing the flavor profile of the cookies.
Almond butter contributes not only to the flavor but also to the overall texture and nutritional value. It adds healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making each cookie a satisfying choice for breakfast or a snack. For those with nut allergies or seeking a different flavor, sunflower seed butter can serve as a great substitute, while still maintaining the creamy consistency essential for this recipe.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
For the best texture, be careful not to overmix the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. This prevents the cookies from becoming tough and ensures a tender bite. Additionally, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet allows for even baking and prevents them from merging into one another during the cooking process.
Keep an eye on the cookies while they’re in the oven; they should be baked until the edges turn golden, which typically takes 12-15 minutes depending on your oven’s calibration. If your cookies are browning too quickly, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for an even bake.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cookies:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped almonds, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Enjoy these cookies warm or store them for later!
Pro Tips
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or some dark chocolate chips to the cookie dough.
Storing and Freezing
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them longer, freezing is a great option. Allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy a cookie, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. For a warm treat, you can also pop it in the microwave for about 10 seconds, which will soften the cookie without drying it out.
Variations to Try
Experimenting with different add-ins can make these cookies even more exciting! Consider folding in dark chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for an added burst of flavor. If you want a hint of spice, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste profile remarkably, making the cookies feel more like a cozy treat.
For a touch of crunch, you might add a handful of chia or flax seeds. These not only enhance the texture but also boost the health benefits of the cookies. Remember, the key is to keep the total volume of dry ingredients balanced to maintain the right cookie consistency.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another nut butter instead of almond butter?
Absolutely! Peanut butter or cashew butter work well as alternatives.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
→ Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these cookies can be gluten-free.
Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies
I love starting my day with a nutritious yet delicious treat, and these Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies are the perfect solution. They combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty flavor of almonds, creating a satisfying cookie that feels good to eat. Each cookie is packed with wholesome ingredients, providing a delightful breakfast option or snack. I found that these cookies are not only easy to make but also adaptable to suit my tastes, whether I want to add chocolate chips or a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped almonds, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Scoop tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Extra Tips
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or some dark chocolate chips to the cookie dough.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g