Name: 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces ripe bananas (mashed); 1 cup creamy almond butter (well-stirred); 2 cups mixed raw nuts (chopped (such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans)); 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional); 1 pinch sea salt

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If you’re looking for a quick and easy treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without sacrificing health, then these 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies are a must-try! With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious, chewy cookies that are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. These cookies are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and packed with the goodness of nuts, making them a wholesome option for any time of the day. Plus, they come together in no time, making them an ideal recipe for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so wonderfully.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of the 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies lies in their simplicity. By using just three core ingredients, you can create a satisfying cookie that doesn’t require a long list of items from the pantry. The mashed bananas not only add natural sweetness but also act as a binding agent, allowing the cookies to hold their shape without flour or eggs. Creamy almond butter enriches the flavor and provides healthy fats, while mixed raw nuts add crunch and nutrition. The optional chocolate chips and a hint of cinnamon elevate the taste profile, making these cookies a delightful treat.

Ingredient List

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup creamy almond butter, well-stirred
2 cups mixed raw nuts, chopped (such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of sea salt

Gear Up: What to Grab

Mixing bowl – for combining your ingredients.
Fork or potato masher – to mash the bananas smoothly.
Baking sheet – for placing your cookie dough.
Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Cookie scoop or spoon – for portioning the dough.

From Start to Finish: 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, take your 3 ripe bananas and use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps; just make sure they’re mostly mashed.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add 1 cup of creamy almond butter. Stir well to combine. The mixture should be creamy and thick. If you’re adding chocolate chips and cinnamon, fold them in at this stage.

Step 4: Add the Nuts

Next, add in the 2 cups of chopped mixed raw nuts. Gently fold them into the banana-almond butter mixture until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread a little while baking.

Step 7: Bake!

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden 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 about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Tailor It to Your Diet

Nut-free: Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter and use seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure that your almond butter and any nuts used are certified gluten-free.
Vegan: This recipe is vegan-friendly as it does not contain eggs or dairy.
Lower sugar: Skip the chocolate chips or use dark chocolate chips for a lower sugar option.

Pro Tips & Notes

Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
Feel free to mix and match the types of nuts used based on your preference.
If you like a bit of crunch, consider toasting the nuts lightly before adding them to the dough.
For a bit of extra flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just layer them between parchment paper before freezing to prevent sticking.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other nut butters for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any nut butter you like, such as peanut butter or cashew butter, depending on your taste preferences.

Can I add other mix-ins to these cookies?

Yes! Feel free to add dried fruits, seeds, or even spices like nutmeg for a different flavor profile!

What’s the best way to mash the bananas?

The easiest way is to use a fork or a potato masher. Aim for a smooth consistency, but a few small lumps are perfectly fine!

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Yes! These cookies are a healthy option for kids, packed with nutrients from bananas and nuts. Just be mindful of any nut allergies.

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The Takeaway

In a world where we often find ourselves overwhelmed by complicated recipes and long ingredient lists, the 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies stand out as a beacon of simplicity and flavor. With just three main ingredients and a few optional add-ins, these cookies are a fantastic way to indulge without the guilt. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or packing them for a lunchbox treat, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to these easy, delicious cookies today!