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Easy No-Sugar Kindergartener Lunchbox Banana Oat Cookies

no sugar banana oat cookies - featured image

These soft, naturally sweetened banana oat cookies are perfect for healthy, kid-approved lunchbox snacks. Made with simple ingredients and no added sugar, they are quick to prepare and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 1/2 cups (135g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (60g) whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened applesauce
  • Optional mix-ins: 1/4 cup (40g) mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or pecans, 1/4 cup (30g) raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Mash the bananas in a medium bowl using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with a few small lumps remain (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Stir in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas until combined.
  4. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  5. Pour the wet banana mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until just combined. The dough will be sticky but manageable.
  6. Fold in any optional mix-ins if using (mini chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit).
  7. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers feel set but still soft.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

If cookies spread too much, chill the dough for 15 minutes before scooping. Use ripe or overripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture. Pulse half the oats in a food processor for a lighter texture. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana oat cookies, no sugar cookies, healthy snacks, lunchbox cookies, kid-friendly snacks, no added sugar, easy cookies