These Banana Oat Cookies are a healthy, delicious snack packed with oats, bananas, carrots, nuts, and seeds. Perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack, these cookies are both nutritious and satisfying. They are naturally sweetened with bananas and packed with fiber and healthy fats from walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and raisins.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 100g oat flakes
- 150ml coconut milk
- 2 bananas, mashed
- 1 carrot, finely grated
- 40g walnuts, chopped
- 40g raisins
- 30g pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Prepare the Oats:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 100g of oat flakes with 150ml of coconut milk. Stir well and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Prepare the Bananas and Carrot:
- Mash the 2 bananas into a smooth puree and grate the carrot using a fine grater.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Add the mashed bananas, grated carrot, chopped 40g walnuts, 40g raisins, 30g pumpkin seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the soaked oats. Mix everything well to form a dough.
- Prepare the Baking Tray:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Spread the dough thinly on the baking tray, flattening it with a spatula to an even thickness.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool before cutting into squares or breaking into pieces.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these cookies as a healthy snack, breakfast option, or post-workout treat.
- Pair with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of almond milk for a wholesome snack.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra sweetness, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
- You can swap walnuts with almonds, pecans, or other nuts based on your preference.
- To make the cookies more indulgent, sprinkle some dark chocolate chips into the mixture before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats are rich in fiber and help maintain steady energy levels.
- Bananas provide natural sweetness and potassium.
- Walnuts and pumpkin seeds are high in healthy fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health.
- Carrots add a boost of beta-carotene and vitamin A.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free: Ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.
- Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, with coconut milk and no animal products.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 10g
Storage:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- They can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make these cookies easy to whip up anytime.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, these cookies are both filling and good for you.
- Naturally Sweet: Bananas and raisins provide natural sweetness without the need for added sugar.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the nuts, seeds, or add-ins to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
These Banana Oat Cookies with Carrots, Nuts, and Seeds are a delicious and wholesome treat that’s perfect for any time of day. They are loaded with nutrients, naturally sweetened, and provide a satisfying crunch from the nuts and seeds. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a quick breakfast, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I substitute coconut milk with another type of milk?
Yes, you can use any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, or even regular milk if you prefer. - Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with more seeds like sunflower seeds or chia seeds. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly different. Rolled oats provide more chewiness, while quick oats will make the cookies softer. - How can I make these cookies crunchier?
Bake the cookies for an additional 5-10 minutes or spread the dough thinner for a crispier result. - Can I add other dried fruits?
Yes, you can add chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or dates for extra flavor and sweetness. - Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven before serving. - Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
Yes, nutmeg, ginger, or allspice would also work well in this recipe. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. - Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, the recipe is gluten-free. - Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
The recipe is naturally sweetened with bananas and raisins, so there’s no need for added sugar.