Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies
Highlighted under: Everyday Favorites
When I first started experimenting with healthier breakfast options, I discovered the joy of making Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies. These cookies are not only packed with the goodness of ripe bananas and crunchy almonds, but they also provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delightful combination of chewy and nutty, making them an ideal choice for a nutritious start to my day. I love that they’re simple to whip up and can easily be made ahead of time for a busy morning.
During my quest for healthy yet delicious breakfast options, I decided to make Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies one weekend. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to prepare! By mashing ripe bananas, I avoided the need for added sugars while achieving a lovely sweetness that paired wonderfully with the roasted almonds. I highly recommend using fresh, crunchy almonds to elevate the texture and flavor of the cookies.
After many batches, I've also learned a trick: allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them to hold their shape and achieve that perfect chewy consistency that makes them so irresistible. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is absolutely divine!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Deliciously sweet and nutty combination
- Chewy texture that satisfies cravings
- Nutritious and energizing breakfast option
- Simple ingredients you likely already have at home
Understanding the Ingredients
The foundation of Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies rests on the combination of ripe bananas and almond butter. Bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, which helps bind the cookies together. Choose well-ripened bananas; the browner, the better, as they are softer and yield a richer flavor. Almond butter not only provides a creamy texture but also delivers healthy fats and proteins, making these cookies a satisfying breakfast option that keeps you full longer.
Incorporating rolled oats is essential for achieving that chewy texture that makes these cookies so enjoyable. They act as a fantastic source of fiber, which helps regulate digestion. If you don’t have rolled oats on hand, quick oats can be a suitable substitute, though they will create a slightly different texture. I recommend avoiding steel-cut oats, as they require cooking and won’t blend well into the dough.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
When it comes to baking these cookies, preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial. An adequately heated oven ensures that the cookies spread correctly and bake evenly, achieving those perfectly golden edges. I like to rotate my baking sheet halfway through for a consistent bake, especially if your oven has hot spots. Keep an eye on the cookies after the 12-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
To check for doneness, look for edges that are golden brown and a slightly set center. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool. If you prefer softer cookies, you can reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes. For added flavor, try folding in a handful of dark chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries, which can complement the banana's sweetness beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these tasty breakfast cookies:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
Mix the Ingredients
Add the almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Mix well until fully combined.
Fold in Oats and Almonds
Gently fold in the rolled oats and chopped almonds until evenly distributed.
Scoop the Dough
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy these cookies warm or store them in an airtight container for a quick breakfast on the go!
Pro Tips
- For extra texture, feel free to mix in other nuts or dried fruits of your choice. You can also substitute the almond butter with peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies are fantastic for meal prep! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or heat them briefly in the microwave.
If you want variety, you can also adapt the recipe by substituting almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options. Moreover, using maple syrup in place of honey caters to a vegan preference while maintaining the cookies' natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies can be enjoyed plain, but I love to pair them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spread of nut butter for an extra protein boost. They also make a delightful addition to a breakfast platter alongside fresh fruit and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. If you're hosting a brunch, consider serving them warm from the oven for an inviting aroma that will delight your guests.
For a fun twist, you can sandwich two cookies together with a layer of cream cheese or even a spread of fruit preserves. This not only enhances the flavor but also transforms them into a special treat. Feel free to experiment with toppings or even drizzles of melted chocolate for a decadent indulgence!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nut butters?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter based on your preference.
→ How long do these cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container, the cookies can last for up to one week at room temperature.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure they are in a single layer in an airtight container.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added sweetness and flavor.
Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies
When I first started experimenting with healthier breakfast options, I discovered the joy of making Banana Almond Breakfast Cookies. These cookies are not only packed with the goodness of ripe bananas and crunchy almonds, but they also provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delightful combination of chewy and nutty, making them an ideal choice for a nutritious start to my day. I love that they’re simple to whip up and can easily be made ahead of time for a busy morning.
Created by: Maeve Colchester
Recipe Type: Everyday Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
Add the almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to the mashed bananas. Mix well until fully combined.
Gently fold in the rolled oats and chopped almonds until evenly distributed.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Extra Tips
- For extra texture, feel free to mix in other nuts or dried fruits of your choice. You can also substitute the almond butter with peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g