These healthy cookies are made without any refined sugar or flour, making them a perfect guilt-free snack. Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and applesauce, they are packed with wholesome ingredients. These cookies are easy to make and great for satisfying your sweet cravings in a healthy way.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans) (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir to combine.
- Add the Dry Ingredients:
- Add the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- If using, fold in the shredded coconut, raisins or dried cranberries, and chopped nuts.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Enjoy these healthy cookies as a snack or a quick breakfast option.
Tips:
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Customizations: Feel free to add other mix-ins like dark chocolate chips, seeds, or a dash of nutmeg to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Texture: For a chewier texture, use old-fashioned rolled oats. For a softer texture, you can use quick oats.
These healthy no-sugar, no-flour cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat that you can enjoy anytime. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they offer a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on health. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty cookies with your family and friends!
