These healthy cookies are made without any sugar but are still super tasty! They use ripe bananas and oats to create a soft texture that you’ll love.
Don’t worry, they still satisfy that sweet tooth! I like to add a handful of nuts or chocolate chips for extra yumminess. It’s a great treat that’s guilt-free! 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are the star here, adding natural sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have bananas, applesauce can be a good substitute, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Oats: Rolled oats are key for texture. Quick oats can work too, but the cookies may be a little softer. You can use gluten-free oats if needed.
Nut Butter: I love natural peanut butter for its creamy texture and flavor. Almond butter is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for something milder. Just ensure there’s no added sugar in either option.
Sweetness: Dark raisins or chopped dates add a bit more sweetness if you desire. If you want to skip dried fruits entirely, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of maple extract to enhance the flavor.
Nuts/Chocolate Chips: I usually add walnuts for crunch, but any nuts are great. If you’re a chocolate lover, I recommend dark chocolate chips—just watch for added sugar if that’s a concern!
How Do You Ensure Your Cookies Have the Right Texture?
The key to getting the right texture in these cookies lies in the mixing and baking. Here are some tips:
- Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can make your cookies tough.
- Flattening: Gently flatten the cookie dough scoops before baking. They won’t spread much, so the shape you make is what they’ll keep.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. They’re done when they’re golden and set but still slightly soft; they’ll firm as they cool.
- Cooling: Letting them cool on a wire rack helps maintain their texture. If you leave them on the baking sheet too long, they can get too soft.
Healthy Cookies With No Sugar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup dark raisins or chopped dates (optional for natural sweetness)
- ⅓ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or dark chocolate chips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cookie recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, making a total of about 25-30 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your healthy cookies in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mash the Bananas:
In a medium bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them until they’re nice and smooth. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps—this will add to the texture of the cookies.
3. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Add the natural peanut butter (or almond butter) and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir it up so that everything is evenly distributed.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, pour the dry ingredient mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is fully combined, but don’t over-mix—this keeps your cookies soft.
6. Add Optional Sweetness and Crunch:
If you wish, fold in the dark raisins or chopped dates, and any nuts or chocolate chips you’re using for added flavor and excitement. This step is great for personalizing your cookies!
7. Shape the Cookies:
Using a spoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making small mounds. Gently flatten each mound to about 1/2 inch thick, as they won’t spread much while baking.
8. Bake Until Perfect:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they are set and lightly golden around the edges.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your wholesome, no-sugar-added cookies as a healthy snack or breakfast treat! 🍪
Can I Use Other Sweeteners besides Bananas?
While bananas add natural sweetness, you can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado as alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly!
How Should I Store These Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week or freeze them in a sealed bag for up to a month.
Can I Add Other Mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding shredded coconut, chia seeds, or even spices like nutmeg for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the overall balance of dry to wet ingredients.
Can I Substitute the Nut Butter?
Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter you prefer, such as cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini. Just check that it’s natural and has no added sugars for the healthiest option!