These soft-baked banana oat breakfast cookies are like a warm hug in edible form. Made with wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas, oat flour, flax seeds, and almond butter, they offer a chewy texture and lightly sweet flavor that makes them feel both indulgent and nourishing. A handful of chocolate chips adds just the right touch of decadence perfect for mornings when you need a little extra motivation.
What’s even better is that these cookies are a breeze to whip up with just one bowl and no fancy equipment. They’re ideal for busy weekday breakfasts, lunchbox treats, or an afternoon energy boost. Store them in the fridge or freezer for whenever you need a quick, satisfying bite. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and dairy-free when using appropriate ingredients making them a wonderful option for a variety of dietary needs.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup coconut oil, melted
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⅓ cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
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⅓ cup very ripe banana, mashed (about 2 medium bananas)
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¼ cup smooth almond butter
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½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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2 cups oat flour
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2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
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⅓ cup ground flax seeds
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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½ cup chocolate chips, plus more for topping
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line two baking sheets.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs until well combined.
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Add melted coconut oil, maple syrup, mashed banana, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk to blend.
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Stir in oat flour, rolled oats, flax seeds, salt, and baking powder until fully incorporated.
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Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
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Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets. Flatten slightly and top each cookie with 3 additional chocolate chips.
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Bake for 12 minutes or until lightly golden.
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Let cool on the pan before transferring to a storage container. Enjoy fresh, or freeze for later!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 201 kcal | Servings: 18 cookies
A Deliciously Nutritious Start to the Day: One Bowl Banana Oat Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookies
In today’s fast-paced world, the first meal of the day is often overlooked. But what if breakfast could be as easy as grabbing a cookie and a healthy one at that? That’s exactly the promise behind the One Bowl Banana Oat Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookies featured on Real Food Whole Life. These cookies are not only delicious and convenient but also packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and satisfy the soul.
Created by Robyn Conley Downs, a wellness educator known for her balanced and realistic approach to healthy living, this recipe is a beautiful example of how simple, real-food ingredients can come together in a way that supports both taste and nutrition. Here’s a deeper look into why these breakfast cookies have become a favorite among busy families, health-conscious individuals, and anyone in search of easy, feel-good food.
The Philosophy Behind the Recipe
The hallmark of this breakfast cookie recipe lies in its simplicity. With just one bowl and a handful of pantry staples, these cookies come together in mere minutes. But the simplicity isn’t just about convenience it’s a reflection of a larger food philosophy that values nourishment, balance, and ease.
Robyn’s recipes typically center around minimizing stress in the kitchen, reducing cleanup, and using ingredients that are both accessible and health-promoting. This cookie recipe embodies that ethos perfectly. It removes the barrier of complicated prep and instead offers an inviting, low-pressure option for breakfast or snacking that feels like a treat but is built on good-for-you foundations.
Nutritional Highlights and Health Benefits
Though they look and taste like indulgent treats, these breakfast cookies are designed with nutrition in mind. Here are just a few of the nutritional benefits offered by the primary ingredients:
Bananas
Rich in potassium and natural sweetness, bananas provide essential electrolytes while helping reduce the need for added sugar. They’re also a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, promoting digestion and supporting immune health.
Oats
Oats are a whole grain known for their heart-healthy properties, particularly due to their high content of beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol. They provide sustained energy, which is particularly helpful at breakfast time.
Maple Syrup
Used here as a natural sweetener, maple syrup is a less processed alternative to refined sugar. While still a form of sugar, it does contain trace minerals like manganese and zinc.
Chocolate Chips
While chocolate chips are often seen as a decadent addition, choosing dark chocolate or semi-sweet versions adds antioxidants like flavonoids, which may support heart and brain health. They also add a layer of indulgence that makes the cookies more appealing, especially to kids.
One-Bowl Wonder
By limiting the number of dishes used, this recipe makes healthy eating more approachable. The single-bowl method is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned home cooks alike, reducing cleanup and simplifying the process.
Convenience Without Compromise
One of the biggest advantages of these breakfast cookies is their grab-and-go nature. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them ideal for meal prepping. Whether you’re heading out the door to work, packing school lunches, or just need a quick afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies check all the boxes.
They also freeze exceptionally well. By doubling the recipe and freezing a portion, you can ensure that a wholesome breakfast is always just a microwave-thaw away.
Versatility for All Diets
Another highlight of this recipe is its flexibility. It’s naturally gluten-free (if made with certified gluten-free oats) and can easily be adapted for dairy-free or vegan diets by choosing dairy-free chocolate chips. The lack of eggs in the original version makes it inherently suitable for those avoiding animal products or allergens.
Other variations can include:
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Nut-free version: Omit any nut-based add-ins or switch to seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
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Higher protein option: Add a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of chia or hemp seeds.
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Fruit-forward spin: Mix in raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for a natural sweetness and textural variety.
Perfect for Families
Children often need energy-dense snacks that they’re actually willing to eat. These cookies are a parent’s dream: sweet enough to please picky eaters, yet balanced with fiber and natural sugars that won’t lead to the dreaded sugar crash. They can also be a great way to introduce little ones to baking. Since the recipe doesn’t require complicated steps or equipment, it’s a fun and safe option for getting kids involved in the kitchen.
Smart Snacking Anytime
While the word “breakfast” is in the title, these cookies easily cross over into the snack category. They’re perfect with a cup of afternoon tea, tucked into a lunchbox, or served as a healthier dessert option.
The texture soft, chewy, and slightly dense makes them satisfying enough to stand alone. They pair well with yogurt or a smoothie for a more complete meal or can be enjoyed with a hot beverage for a calming snack break.
Kitchen Confidence for Everyone
The accessibility of this recipe makes it a fantastic entry point for those who feel overwhelmed by cooking. With no fancy ingredients, no need for a mixer, and forgiving proportions, it’s nearly impossible to mess up. That sense of confidence is empowering, especially for those just beginning to explore home cooking and healthier eating.
Tips for Success
To get the best results from these cookies, consider the following tips:
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Use overripe bananas: The spottier, the better. They’re sweeter and mash more easily.
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Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
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Customize thoughtfully: While the recipe is forgiving, too many add-ins can throw off the texture.
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Cool completely before storing: This prevents excess moisture from making them soggy in storage.
Conclusion:
The One Bowl Banana Oat Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookies represent more than just a tasty recipe they symbolize a shift in how we think about convenience and health. They show that with a little planning and a handful of real ingredients, we can nourish ourselves and our families in a way that’s both sustainable and enjoyable.
In a world full of over-processed, under-nourishing breakfast options, these cookies offer a refreshing alternative. They’re not just food they’re a gesture of care, a tool for connection, and a pathway toward feeling good in your body and your kitchen.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for fuel on the go, a parent trying to simplify mornings, or someone exploring healthier habits, this recipe is a wonderful place to start. It’s a small act of self-care that pays dividends in energy, mood, and well-being and it all starts with one bowl.