Name: Banana Oatmeal Cookies - Banana Dessert Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1/4 cup coconut oil (or butter, melted); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or M&Ms; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

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These banana oatmeal cookies feel like a warm hug from the oven, and honestly, who doesn’t need that now and then? I’ve always believed cookies are more than just a sweet bite—they’re little reminders that life can be simple, cozy, and oh-so good. This recipe takes ripe bananas, oats, and a touch of sweetness to create a treat that feels both comforting and satisfying. When I first made these, I thought they might lean too much toward breakfast food, but after one bite, I knew they belonged firmly in the dessert category. They’ve got that chewy center, the gentle sweetness of bananas, and the kind of flavor that makes you want just one more. If you’ve been hunting for banana oatmeal recipes or even a banana oatmeal bread recipe that’s easier to grab and go, this cookie version is a keeper. And here’s the fun part—these cookies are forgiving. You can toss in chocolate chips, nuts, or even a handful of M&Ms if you’re in the mood for something playful. That’s why I like calling this one of my favorite banana dessert recipes easy enough to whip up on a busy afternoon. If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably make them once and then start plotting the next batch before the first one cools. They remind me of oatmeal m m cookies recipe classics but with that cozy banana twist.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
3) Ingredients for Banana Oatmeal Cookies
4) How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies
5) Tips for Making Banana Oatmeal Cookies
6) Making Banana Oatmeal Cookies Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Banana Oatmeal Cookies
8) Try these Desserts next!
9) Banana Oatmeal Cookies
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

These cookies are a chewy, sweet, and simple way to use ripe bananas.
You only need everyday pantry items like oats, honey, and cinnamon.
The recipe can be customized with chocolate chips, nuts, or even M&Ms.
Perfect balance between dessert and snack, quick to make and loved by kids.

2) Easy Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

When I bake banana oatmeal cookies, the house fills with that unmistakable aroma of warm bananas and toasted oats. It feels like home, and sometimes, that’s all we’re looking for. I’ve tried plenty of banana dessert recipes, but this one wins for its balance between ease and flavor. The dough mixes together in minutes, yet the end result feels like it took more effort than it did.

What I love most is the flexibility. You can stick to the classic banana oatmeal recipe or play around with it by sneaking in chocolate chips or crushed nuts. Even a splash of vanilla makes the flavors rounder. It’s the kind of recipe that adapts to you, not the other way around. I’ve had mornings where I reached for one of these instead of banana oatmeal bread recipe slices, and honestly, I didn’t regret it one bit.

If you’ve got bananas on the counter that look too brown for comfort, these cookies are your solution. They’re not just another banana recipes idea, they’re one of those banana dessert recipes easy enough to become a habit. Every bite tastes familiar, yet comforting, with the kind of sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm. This is the oatmeal m m cookies recipe I never knew I needed until I baked a tray myself.

3) Ingredients for Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Bananas: Ripe bananas act as the natural sweetener here. The softer and darker they get, the better the cookies taste. They mash into the oats perfectly and create that chewy bite.

Oats: Old fashioned oats keep these cookies hearty. They hold the structure and give a rustic texture that pairs beautifully with mashed bananas.

Coconut Oil or Butter: Either option works. Coconut oil brings a light flavor, while butter adds richness. Both melt smoothly into the mix.

Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness helps balance the bananas. Maple syrup adds depth, while honey gives a floral hint.

Vanilla Extract: A small spoonful brings warmth. It ties the oats and banana flavors together like a quiet supporting character.

Baking Soda and Cinnamon: These two create lift and add spice. Cinnamon in particular gives the cookies a cozy flavor.

Salt: Just a pinch makes the sweetness shine more. Without it, the flavor feels flat.

Optional Mix-ins: Chocolate chips, M&Ms, or chopped nuts make the cookies playful. Each batch can feel new depending on what you stir in.

4) How to Make Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment keeps the cookies from sticking and makes clean up quick.

Step 2. Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth. You want no lumps, just a creamy banana base that blends into the oats.

Step 3. Stir in coconut oil and honey until the mixture looks glossy. Add vanilla, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything well.

Step 4. Fold in the oats gently until each flake is coated in banana mixture. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, this is the time to toss them in.

Step 5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon, since they don’t spread while baking.

Step 6. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges look firm and the tops feel set to the touch.

Step 7. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack. They firm up as they rest, but don’t be surprised if one disappears into your mouth before that.

5) Tips for Making Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Don’t rush the bananas. The darker the peel, the sweeter the mash, and that sweetness is what makes the cookies taste rich without too much added sugar. If you’re craving cookies but your bananas aren’t ready, place them in a paper bag overnight to speed things up.

Play with texture. Some days I like mine with walnuts for crunch, other times with chocolate chips for gooey centers. The recipe doesn’t judge your mood, it just follows along.

Watch the oven closely. A minute too long and the edges can turn crisp instead of chewy. If you’re into softer cookies, pull them out earlier and let them finish on the hot tray.

6) Making Banana Oatmeal Cookies Ahead of Time

I’ve made these cookies the night before a busy weekend, and they held up perfectly. The flavors actually feel more blended after resting. It’s like they get to know each other better in the container overnight. I usually bake a double batch and set half aside for later in the week.

If you’re prepping the dough, you can refrigerate it for a day or two. Scoop and bake when you’re ready. It’s a time saver on those days when the craving hits but the energy is missing.

The baked cookies stay soft if stored properly. So, yes, making ahead is not only possible but encouraged.

7) Storing Leftover Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Once baked, these cookies keep well in a sealed container for about three days at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, the fridge works too, though they’ll firm up a little.

Freezing is another option. Place them in a bag, separate with parchment, and freeze for up to two months. They thaw quickly on the counter, or you can warm them briefly in the oven.

Having a stash of banana oatmeal cookies in the freezer feels like a gift to your future self. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

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9) Banana Oatmeal Cookies