Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Who doesn't love cookies? However, the traditional cookie recipe is often loaded with unhealthy ingredients such as processed flour, sugar, and butter. The good news is that you can still indulge in this delicious treat while staying healthy. That's right, with this recipe for healthy peanut butter banana oatmeal cookies, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Note: Make sure to use natural peanut butter with no added sugar and rolled oats, not instant oats.
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- In a medium bowl, mix the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
- Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press each cookie down slightly to flatten.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your healthy peanut butter banana oatmeal cookies!
These cookies are perfect for a quick and easy breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. They are packed with nutrients such as fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Plus, they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. So, you can indulge without the guilt.
Benefits of Key Ingredients:
- Bananas: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, bananas promote healthy digestion and heart health. They are also a great source of energy.
- Peanut Butter: Packed with protein and healthy fats, peanut butter helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. It also contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Oats: A great source of fiber, oats can help to regulate blood sugar levels, promote healthy digestion, and lower cholesterol. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Honey: A natural sweetener, honey contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties. It can also help to boost the immune system and soothe a sore throat.
- Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants and flavanols, dark chocolate can help to lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and boost brain function.
Overall, this healthy peanut butter banana oatmeal cookies recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious treat. Feel free to get creative and add your own unique twist, such as adding nuts, dried fruits, or even swapping out the peanut butter for almond butter. The possibilities are endless!