These Healthy Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are one of my favorite easy snacks to make when I have a couple of ripe bananas sitting on the counter. They are naturally sweetened with banana, soft and chewy in the center, and packed with hearty oats and melty chocolate chips.

I love this recipe because it comes together in one bowl with simple pantry ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you need a quick breakfast, an after-school snack, or something sweet without feeling too indulgent, these cookies always hit the spot.

They are naturally flourless, dairy-free, vegan, and incredibly satisfying. I love making a batch to keep on hand for the next few days because they are perfect for lunchboxes, busy mornings, or an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–13 minutes
Total Time: 25–33 minutes
Servings: 13 cookies

Ingredients

Servings: 13 cookies

2 large ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup (90 g) rolled oats, certified gluten-free if needed
¼ cup (45 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the ripe bananas in a large bowl and mash them thoroughly with a fork until they become a smooth puree with very few lumps.

3. Add the rolled oats, cinnamon, vanilla extract, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.

4. Fold half of the chocolate chips into the mixture until evenly distributed.

5. Let the mixture rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb some of the moisture from the bananas, creating a thicker cookie dough.

6. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet to make approximately 13 cookies.

7. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or fork, then press the remaining chocolate chips into the tops.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of the cookies.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, or let them cool completely before storing for later.

Make It Your Own

These healthy banana oatmeal cookies are easy to customize with whatever you have on hand. Swap the chocolate chips for chopped walnuts or pecans if you prefer a little crunch, or stir in raisins or dried cranberries for a naturally sweet twist.

A handful of shredded coconut also adds great texture, while a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice gives the cookies a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall.

If you’re baking for someone with gluten sensitivities, simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Recipe Tips

The riper the bananas, the sweeter the cookies.
Don’t skip the resting time—it helps the oats soften and improves the texture.
Slightly underbaking the cookies keeps the centers soft and chewy.
These cookies don’t spread much, so be sure to flatten them before baking.

How to Store

Store these banana oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days.

Because they stay soft and moist inside, refrigerate them for longer storage and enjoy within 4 to 5 days. Let refrigerated cookies sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without chia seeds?

Yes. The cookies will still turn out delicious, although they’ll be a little softer.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Are these healthy enough for breakfast?

Yes. Made with bananas, oats, chia seeds, and a small amount of chocolate chips, these cookies can be a convenient grab-and-go breakfast or snack. For a more complete breakfast, serve them with yogurt, fruit, or a glass of milk.

Healthy Banana Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies