Vegan Banana Oatmeal Cookies: Easy, Healthy & Gluten-Free

Craving a treat that’s both wholesome and incredibly delicious?

Look no further! These Vegan Banana Oatmeal Cookies are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. They’re unbelievably easy to make, packed with flavor, and surprisingly good for you (well, almost!). Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these cookies are sure to impress everyone, even the non-vegans.

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re delightfully chewy with a hint of sweetness.
• They require minimal ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• They are ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for a quick breakfast on the go or a healthier sweet treat.
• They are easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these cookies apart is their simplicity and the perfect balance of textures. The combination of mashed bananas and rolled oats creates a naturally sweet and chewy cookie, eliminating the need for refined sugars. Unlike some vegan cookie recipes, these don’t rely on fancy ingredients; it’s all about harnessing the power of simple, wholesome flavors.

Ingredient List

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (not instant) – These provide structure and chewiness.
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, seeds)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until mostly smooth, some chunks are okay.
3. Add the plant-based milk and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas, and stir well to combine.
4. Add in the cinnamon and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir to combine.
5. Stir in the rolled oats and mix until everything is evenly combined. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the moisture.
6. If using, gently fold in any mix-ins of your choice.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas:

• Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of your favorite vegan chocolate chips.
• Nuts & Seeds: Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
• Dried Fruit: Add 1/4 cup of raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates.
• Spices: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor.

Expert Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture. The more spots, the better!
• Don’t overmix the batter once you add the oats; mix just until combined to avoid a dense cookie.
• Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes after adding the oats, this allows the oats to soften up a bit.
• For a chewier cookie, flatten the dough slightly before baking.
• Don’t overbake the cookies, they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the rolled oats with quick oats? While rolled oats are recommended for the best texture, you can use quick oats, though the cookies may be a bit softer.
• Can I use a different kind of plant-based milk? Yes, any plant-based milk will work, like almond, soy, oat, or even cashew milk.
• Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, these cookies freeze well. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.
• How long do these cookies last? These cookies will last for 3-4 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

Variations and Customization Options

Let’s take these cookies to the next level with some fun variations:

• Peanut Butter Power: Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for a nutty and extra chewy cookie.
• Choco-Nuts Explosion: Combine chocolate chips with your favorite nuts.
• Cranberry Orange Delight: Add dried cranberries and a teaspoon of orange zest for a zesty twist.
• Pumpkin Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Banana Oatmeal Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them with a glass of plant-based milk for a quick breakfast, pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy treat, or enjoy them as a satisfying dessert with a scoop of vegan ice cream. They’re also perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of coffee or tea.

Conclusion

These Vegan Banana Oatmeal Cookies are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make and customize. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a guilt-free dessert, or a quick breakfast, this recipe has got you covered. So, go ahead, whip up a batch today and treat yourself! Be sure to snap a pic and share it, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious plant-based recipes. 

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Vegan Chocolate Mint Cookies
• Vegan Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
• Vegan Apple Cinnamon Cookies

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and baking tips delivered straight to your inbox!