Healthy Breakfast Cookies
If you’re searching for a deliciously wholesome way to start your day, look no further than these Healthy Breakfast Cookies. Packed with natural sweetness from dried dates and bananas, these cookies are not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious. They make for an excellent on-the-go breakfast or a delightful snack anytime during the day. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will keep you fueled and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Healthy Breakfast Cookies are a game changer for your morning routine. They are easy to make, require no baking skills, and can easily be customized to fit your taste preferences. Imagine waking up to the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as you prepare these delightful cookies. Each bite is soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, providing you with sustained energy throughout your busy morning. Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about feeding your family.
What’s in the Bowl
The magic of these Healthy Breakfast Cookies lies in their simple yet nutritious ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup whole pitted dried dates – These add natural sweetness and a sticky texture.
- 3 medium ripe bananas (~1 cup mashed bananas) – Bananas provide moisture and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce – A great substitute for added sugar, adding flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – For a warm and cozy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste.
- 2 cups rolled oats (quick or old-fashioned) – The base ingredient that gives the cookies their chewy texture.
- More oats as needed – To achieve your desired cookie consistency.
Recommended Tools
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowl – For combining all your ingredients.
- Fork or potato masher – To mash the bananas easily.
- Baking sheet – For placing your cookie dough.
- Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – For portioning out the dough evenly.
How to Prepare Healthy Breakfast Cookies
Ready to make your kitchen smell heavenly? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dates
In a small saucepan, add the dried dates and enough water to cover them. Heat over low until the dates are soft and can be easily mashed. Drain excess water and mash the dates until smooth.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the mashed dates and unsweetened applesauce to the mashed bananas. Stir in the cinnamon and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Add the Oats
Gradually fold in the rolled oats to the wet mixture. If the mixture seems too wet, add more oats until you reach a cookie dough-like consistency.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
Feel free to customize these Healthy Breakfast Cookies to suit your dietary needs:
- Add nuts or seeds: Chopped walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds can boost the healthy fat content.
- Incorporate dried fruits: Cranberries, raisins, or apricots can add a pop of flavor and additional nutrients.
- Use different spices: Experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats if you’re avoiding gluten.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
While making your Healthy Breakfast Cookies, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Consistency is key: If your dough is too wet, simply add more oats until it holds together without being sticky.
- Baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as baking times can vary based on your oven. Remove them when they are just golden.
- Overmixing: Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
Save It for Later
These Healthy Breakfast Cookies are perfect for meal prepping. Here are some tips for storing them:
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Healthy Breakfast Cookies FAQs
Can I substitute the dried dates with something else?
Yes, you can use other dried fruits like figs or prunes, but keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile slightly.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These cookies are a great healthy snack for kids, providing them with energy and nutrients without added sugars.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Enjoy them guilt-free!
What if I don’t have applesauce?
You can substitute applesauce with mashed pumpkin or even yogurt for a different flavor and texture.
Make It Tonight
There you have it—a simple, wholesome recipe for Healthy Breakfast Cookies that will have you excited for breakfast. Gather your ingredients and get started on a batch tonight, so you can enjoy these delightful cookies in the morning. Whether you’re rushing out the door or taking a moment to savor your breakfast, these cookies are the perfect choice.
With every bite, you’ll be sure to feel nourished, energized, and ready to conquer the day ahead. So go ahead, indulge in these Healthy Breakfast Cookies and make your mornings a little brighter!
Healthy Breakfast Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- In a small saucepan, add the dried dates and enough water to cover them. Heat over low until soft and mash until smooth.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the mashed dates and unsweetened applesauce to the bananas, stirring in the cinnamon and vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the rolled oats, adjusting with more oats if the mixture is too wet.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Monitor to avoid overbaking.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, placing parchment paper between layers.
- Substitute dried dates with figs or prunes if desired.
- Customize with nuts, seeds, or different spices for added flavor.
- Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft and chewy.
