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Cozy Zero-Waste Overripe Banana Oatmeal Cookies

overripe banana oatmeal cookies - featured image
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These cozy zero-waste overripe banana oatmeal cookies are an easy, wholesome, and forgiving recipe perfect for using up overripe bananas and pantry staples. They offer a warm, comforting flavor with natural sweetness and a chewy texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium overripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 ½ cups rolled oats (135 g), certified gluten-free if needed
  • ½ cup whole wheat flour (60 g), or all-purpose flour as substitute
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (57 g), softened, or coconut oil for dairy-free
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
  • ½ cup chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips (75 g, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. If desired, pulse the rolled oats in a food processor or blender for about 10 seconds to achieve a slightly ground texture; otherwise, use whole oats.
  3. In a large bowl, combine oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
  4. In a medium bowl, mash the overripe bananas thoroughly with a fork until smooth with some small lumps. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if using). Mix until well combined.
  5. Pour the banana mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  6. Fold in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips if desired.
  7. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cookies are golden around the edges but still soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

If dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 15 minutes before scooping. Use perfectly overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Pulse oats lightly for a tender crumb but retain some texture. Watch bake time closely to avoid dry cookies. Use room temperature butter for best dough consistency. Variations include vegan substitutions, gluten-free flour swaps, and adding spices like nutmeg or ginger.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana oatmeal cookies, zero waste, overripe bananas, easy cookies, healthy snack, gluten-free option, vegan option, homemade cookies

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/cozy-zero-waste-overripe-banana-oatmeal-cookies-easy-homemade-recipe/