Jacy Are you craving a delicious, wholesome cookie but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further! These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies are the perfect solution—simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves easy oatmeal cookies, this recipe will become your new go-to. With minimal effort and maximum taste, these cookies are a game-changer for anyone who loves baking without the fuss.
Table of Contents
Classic 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies
The Simplest, Most Delicious Oatmeal Cookies You’ll Ever Make
If you think baking cookies requires a long list of ingredients and complicated steps, think again! These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies are here to prove that less is more. With just oats, bananas, and a touch of sweetness, you can whip up a batch of soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened cookies in no time. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, these easy oatmeal cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves simple, healthy treats.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter!)
– 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
– 1/4 cup add-ins of your choice (optional): chocolate chips, raisins, chopped nuts, or dried fruit
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies will be!
3. Add the oats to the mashed bananas and stir until well combined. If you’re using any add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now.
4. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the oats absorb the moisture, making the cookies hold together better.
5. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a spoon or cookie scoop. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them—these easy oatmeal cookies can go from perfect to overdone quickly!
7. Cool and enjoy! Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Tips & Variations
– Boost the flavor: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
– Make them crunchy: For a crispier texture, bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.
– Go nutty: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter for added richness.
– Vegan-friendly: These cookies are naturally vegan, but ensure your add-ins (like chocolate chips) are dairy-free if needed.
– Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make these cookies celiac-friendly.
Serving & Storage
– Serving suggestions:
– Enjoy these 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies warm with a glass of almond milk or a cup of coffee.
– Crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious breakfast topping.
– Pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy, on-the-go snack.
– Storage tips:
– Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerator: Keep them fresh for up to a week by storing them in the fridge.
– Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
– Meal prep: Double the batch and freeze half for a quick, healthy snack anytime!
Nutritional Benefits / Advantages
– Rich in fiber: Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
– Natural sweetness: Bananas provide natural sugars, making these cookies refined sugar-free.
– Energy-boosting: The combination of oats and bananas offers a steady release of energy, perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack.
– Customizable: Easily adaptable to fit dietary preferences like vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free diets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas won’t be sweet enough, resulting in bland easy oatmeal cookies. Always use spotty, ripe bananas.
2. Skipping the resting time: Letting the dough sit helps the oats absorb moisture, preventing crumbly cookies.
3. Overbaking: These cookies bake quickly. Check them at 12 minutes to avoid dry, hard cookies.
4. Not flattening the dough: Since these cookies don’t spread much, flattening them ensures even baking.
5. Using quick oats: Rolled oats provide the best texture. Quick oats can make the cookies too dense.
Conclusion for this Recipe
These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies are proof that you don’t need a laundry list of ingredients to make something delicious. With just bananas, oats, and your favorite add-ins, you can create a batch of easy oatmeal cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping, satisfying a sweet tooth, or looking for a healthy snack, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try, and you’ll never go back to complicated cookie recipes again!
Final Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for a foolproof, healthy, and delicious cookie recipe, your search ends here. These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies are the ultimate solution for anyone who wants a quick, nutritious treat without the hassle. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with add-ins, these easy oatmeal cookies are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
The best part? They’re incredibly versatile—customize them to fit your dietary needs, preferences, or whatever you have in your pantry. Plus, they’re so simple that even beginner bakers can master them on the first try. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, grab those bananas, and get ready to enjoy the easiest, tastiest cookies you’ve ever made!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without bananas?
While bananas act as the natural binder and sweetener in these 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies, you can substitute them with unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado for a similar texture. However, the flavor will change slightly.
Are these cookies suitable for babies or toddlers?
Yes! These easy oatmeal cookies are a great, healthy snack for little ones. Just ensure the add-ins (like nuts or chocolate) are age-appropriate and finely chopped if needed.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats are too tough for this recipe and won’t soften properly. Stick to rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick) for the best texture.
How can I make these cookies crispier?
For a crispier texture, bake the cookies for an extra 2-3 minutes and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. You can also add a tablespoon of coconut oil or nut butter to the dough for extra crunch.
Can I make these cookies oil-free?
Absolutely! These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies are naturally oil-free. The bananas provide all the moisture needed to bind the ingredients together. If you find the dough too dry, add a splash of plant-based milk.
