Banana-Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with oats, bananas, walnuts, and cocoa, these cookies are packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
• No Added Sugar: The natural sweetness from ripe bananas eliminates the need for additional sweeteners.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and baking time, you can enjoy these cookies in no time.

Ingredients

• 80 grams walnuts, chopped
• 1 ripe banana
• 10 grams vanilla sugar
• 1 cup (approximately 100 grams) oatmeal
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, chopped walnuts, vanilla sugar, cocoa powder, and sesame seeds. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
3. Mash Banana: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the mashed banana to the dry ingredients and mix until a cohesive dough forms. If the mixture appears too dry, you can add a small amount of water or milk to reach the desired consistency.
5. Shape Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening each cookie slightly to your preferred thickness.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are firm to the touch and lightly browned.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 cookies.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add Dried Fruit: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: These cookies are delightful at room temperature, but if you prefer them warm, heat them in a microwave for about 10 seconds.

FAQs

How ripe should the banana be?

For optimal sweetness and moisture, use a banana that is ripe with brown spots. Overripe bananas work best in this recipe.

Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, instant oats can be used, but the texture may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture.

Is there a substitute for vanilla sugar?

If vanilla sugar is unavailable, you can use regular granulated sugar with a few drops of vanilla extract.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, these cookies can be gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, as it contains no animal products.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

How can I make the cookies sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter cookies, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the dough.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Shape it into cookies, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What is the texture of these cookies?

These cookies are soft and slightly chewy due to the combination of oats and mashed banana.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your preferred protein powder. You may need to adjust the moisture by adding a bit more mashed banana or a splash of milk.

Conclusion

These banana-oatmeal walnut chocolate cookies are a delightful and healthy option for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising on nutrition. Quick to prepare and versatile, they make for a perfect snack or breakfast accompaniment. Enjoy the natural flavors and wholesome ingredients in every bite.

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