Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Introduction

Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of ripe bananas, rich chocolate, and hearty oats. These cookies are perfect for any time of day, whether it’s a snack for the kids or a late-night dessert. The best part? They are easy to make and will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it uses ingredients you may already have at home, making it a convenient option. Second, the combination of bananas and oats provides fiber, while the chocolate chunks add a tasty richness. Finally, these cookies are soft and chewy, making them irresistible to everyone who tries them.

How to Make Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delicious Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies.

Ingredients:

2 cups flour
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 1⁄2 teaspoons cinnamon
3⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
Pinch of nutmeg
1 cup salted butter (softened)
3⁄4 cup packed brown sugar
1⁄2 cup sugar
3 medium bananas (mashed, about 1 cup)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chunks
2⁄3 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Mix in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and eggs until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in chocolate chunks and walnuts.
Use an ice cream scoop to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until browned around the edges.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 3-4 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

How to Serve Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies

These cookies are best enjoyed warm from the oven, but they are also delicious at room temperature. You can serve them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They make a great addition to lunchboxes or as a sweet treat after dinner.

How to Store Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to one week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving again.

Tips to Make Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
Don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients; this will help keep the cookies soft and chewy.
For extra chewiness, try adding a bit more oats or using old-fashioned rolled oats.
If you prefer a nut-free cookie, simply omit the walnuts.

Variation

You can easily change up this recipe by adding different mix-ins. Try using white chocolate chips, dried fruit, or coconut flakes for a new twist. You can also replace the walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds, depending on your taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q: What can I substitute for the eggs?
A: You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. For one egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes, or use 1/4 cup of applesauce.

Q: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: To make gluten-free cookies, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure that the oats you use are labeled as gluten-free.

Enjoy making your Chocolate Chunk Banana Oatmeal Cookies!