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These healthy cookies come together with pure banana sweetness and rich chocolate in every bite. They are my go-to recipe when I want something wholesome yet delicious for a snack or dessert. No added sugar means you can enjoy them any time with zero guilt.
I first made these for my kids’ school lunches and was amazed by how quickly they disappeared. Now we bake them together on Sunday afternoons and everyone looks forward to cookie day.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas: Mashed bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture. The riper the bananas the better for flavor
- Unsweetened applesauce: Adds tenderness without extra sugar. Choose a smooth style with no sugar added
- Oats: Old fashioned oats create chewy texture and boost fiber. Use certified gluten free oats if needed
- Almond milk: Moistens the dough and keeps the cookies tender. Opt for unsweetened for best health benefits
- Raisins or nuts: Adds bursts of flavor and texture. Look for fresh unsalted nuts or plump raisins
- Dark chocolate chunks: Bring a rich decadent taste. Choose a high quality sugar free or stevia sweetened brand
- Vanilla extract: Deepens flavor. Select real vanilla for the best aroma
- Ground cinnamon: Offers subtle warmth and aroma. Use freshly ground if possible
Instructions
- Prep the Oven:
- Set the oven to preheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures even baking once the cookies go in
- Mix the Fruit Base:
- Mash ripe bananas in a large bowl then add unsweetened applesauce. Stir until both ingredients are fully combined. The texture should be mostly smooth with just a few small banana chunks
- Add Flavors:
- Blend in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Make sure both are fully mixed so every bite carries flavor
- Incorporate Oats:
- Stir in oats to the banana mixture. Mix thoroughly until the oats are coated and start to soak up the fruit mixture. This step helps the cookies hold together
- Moisten and Add Mix-ins:
- Pour almond milk gently over the mixture. Fold in raisins or nuts and dark chocolate chunks. Spread these mix-ins evenly so each cookie gets plenty of flavor
- Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or very lightly grease with oil. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes clean-up a snap
- Shape the Cookies:
- Using a spoon scoop portions of dough onto the tray. Flatten slightly using the back of the spoon or your hand. Aim for even thickness so they bake uniformly
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for fifteen to twenty minutes. You will know they are ready when the cookies feel firm and are lightly golden on the edges
- Cool Completely:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before moving to a wire rack. Cooling helps them set and develop the best texture
- Ready to Serve:
- Once fully cooled serve these cookies right away. They are perfect as a healthy snack or lunchbox treat
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My favorite part is the dark chocolate studs in each cookie. They melt into the dough for little pockets of chocolate. I still remember the first batch I made for my kids on a rainy Sunday. The house smelled incredible and we devoured them before they even cooled.
Storage Tips
Keep these cookies fresh for up to five days in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also pop them in the freezer for up to three months. I love grabbing a couple from the freezer before school for a chilled treat.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap almond milk with oat milk or dairy milk if allergies are a concern. Chopped walnuts pecans or pumpkin seeds all work wonderfully in place of raisins. If you want to skip chocolate opt for cacao nibs or even unsweetened shredded coconut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk dairy or plant based for a wholesome snack. They also crumble perfectly over yogurt or smoothie bowls for breakfast. Sometimes I warm them ever so slightly so the chocolate gets melty.
Cultural Background
These cookies are inspired by classic oatmeal raisin cookies but reinvented to suit modern healthy eating. They are perfect for anyone reducing their sugar intake or seeking kid friendly whole food snacks.
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Enjoy these wholesome cookies fresh or from the freezer for a healthy treat any day. You will love having a guilt free snack ready in minutes!
FAQ sur la recette
- → What makes these cookies naturally sweet?
Mashed ripe bananas and unsweetened applesauce provide moisture and natural sweetness, replacing added sugars.
- → Can I substitute the oats with another grain?
Rolled oats work best for texture, but you can try quinoa flakes or quick oats for a similar result.
- → Are there nut-free options for this cookie?
Yes, simply omit nuts and use seeds or extra raisins instead for a nut-free variation.
- → What type of chocolate is recommended?
Use dark chocolate chunks without added sugars, such as Lily's brand, to maintain a lower sugar content.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Are these cookies suitable for vegans?
Yes, as long as plant-based milk and vegan chocolate are used, these cookies are suitable for a vegan diet.