These healthy cookies are naturally sweet, moist, and packed with goodness. Using ripe bananas and applesauce as natural sweeteners, they’re a delicious alternative to traditional cookies without added sugar or flour. The oats provide a satisfying texture, while dark chocolate, raisins, or nuts add bursts of flavor and nutrition. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these cookies are as easy to make as they are enjoyable!
These cookies are a guilt-free treat that you can whip up in no time, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious bakers or those with dietary restrictions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• No Added Sugar or Flour: Naturally sweetened with bananas and free from refined flours.
• Easy and Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, raisins, or dark chocolate for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup applesauce
• 2 cups oats (rolled or quick oats)
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup raisins or nuts (optional)
• 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (use sugar-free for a healthier option)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
• In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add the applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond milk, stirring to combine until you have a smooth mixture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
• Gradually mix in the oats and cinnamon, stirring well to ensure that the oats and spices are evenly distributed.
• Fold in your choice of raisins or nuts if using, for added flavor and texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dark Chocolate
• Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks, spreading them evenly throughout the dough for bursts of chocolate flavor in each bite.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
• Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop to allow for slight spreading while baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. The centers may appear soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
• Allow the cookies to 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 for a delicious, healthy treat!
Tips for Success:
• Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and smooth texture.
• Oat Options: Rolled oats provide more texture, while quick oats create a smoother cookie.
• Add Extra Flavor: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cocoa powder for a different flavor profile.
Storage Options:
• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to a week to maintain their freshness.
• Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
These healthy, no-sugar, no-flour cookies are a wholesome, guilt-free treat that everyone will love. Enjoy their naturally sweet flavor and chewy texture anytime you need a quick snack or satisfying dessert!
