When it comes to quick, healthy, and satisfying snacks, few things compare to these 3-Ingredient Cookies. With just a ripe banana, rolled oats, and your choice of optional add-ins like raisins or dark chocolate chips, these cookies are simple yet delicious. They take just minutes to prepare, are naturally sweetened by the banana, and are a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these cookies are versatile, healthy, and incredibly easy to make.

Why These Cookies are Perfect for a Healthy Lifestyle

The key to the success of these cookies lies in their simplicity. With only three main ingredients—banana, oats, and your chosen mix-ins—you get a balanced snack that provides carbohydrates, fiber, and, depending on your add-ins, even a bit of protein. Here’s a breakdown of why each ingredient contributes to the healthiness of this recipe:

• Bananas are rich in potassium, fiber, and natural sugars, making them the perfect sweetener. They’re also loaded with vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and vitamin B6, which support immune health and energy metabolism.
• Rolled oats are a whole grain packed with dietary fiber, especially soluble fiber (beta-glucan), which can help lower cholesterol levels. Oats are also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide long-lasting energy without spiking blood sugar levels.
• Optional add-ins like dark chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts can elevate the flavor and texture of the cookies. For instance, dark chocolate adds antioxidants, raisins provide natural sweetness, and nuts introduce healthy fats and protein.

This combination of ingredients makes these cookies a go-to option for a healthy snack or breakfast that won’t leave you feeling sluggish or guilty. Plus, the recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats, and it can easily be made vegan by choosing plant-based mix-ins.

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Cookies

Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• Optional add-ins: raisins, craisins, or miniature dark chocolate chips (choose your favorite or mix it up each time)

This base recipe is wonderfully adaptable, meaning you can change it up depending on your preferences or dietary needs. Want a sweeter treat? Add dark chocolate chips. Looking for more fiber? Throw in some raisins. Feeling adventurous? Try a combination of coconut flakes, nuts, and dried fruit for a tropical twist.

Instructions for Making 3-Ingredient Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.

2. Prepare the Ingredients

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until it’s smooth and creamy. This is the base of your cookies and provides natural sweetness and moisture.
• Add 1 cup of rolled oats to the mashed banana. Stir the mixture until the oats are evenly distributed and the banana acts as the binding agent.
• If you’re using optional add-ins, such as raisins, craisins, or dark chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture now. Aim for about ¼ cup of add-ins so that the cookies aren’t overwhelmed by the extras.

3. Form the Cookies

• Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the cookie mixture for each cookie. Place each scoop onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between the cookies. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon to help them cook evenly.

4. Bake the Cookies

• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown around the edges and set in the middle. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.

5. Cool and Enjoy

• Once the cookies are done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool.

These cookies can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later. They keep well at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container, and they can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect 3-Ingredient Cookies

1. Ripe Bananas are Key

The riper the banana, the sweeter the cookies. Look for bananas that have developed brown spots on the skin, which indicates that they’re at peak sweetness. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple for a day or two.

2. Customize with Add-Ins

Although the base recipe calls for just three ingredients, you can easily make these cookies your own by adding in your favorite ingredients. Here are a few ideas:

• Nuts: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
• Spices: A dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice can add warmth and flavor.
• Dried fruit: Cranberries, raisins, or dried cherries add natural sweetness and chewiness.
• Chocolate chips: Miniature dark chocolate chips provide a rich, indulgent flavor without overloading the cookies with sugar.

3. Control the Texture

If you prefer a softer cookie, you can slightly underbake the cookies, removing them from the oven when they’re just barely golden around the edges. For a crispier cookie, bake them a little longer, up to 15 minutes.

4. Storing and Freezing

These cookies store well in an airtight container for several days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

1. Super Healthy

These cookies are made with wholesome ingredients and no added sugar, making them a nutritious snack option. They’re also naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats and can be made vegan by choosing plant-based add-ins.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in less than 20 minutes. There’s no need for fancy equipment, and the process is so simple that even beginners in the kitchen can make them with ease.

3. Perfect for All Ages

Whether you’re baking for kids or adults, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser. They’re a great snack for school lunches, afternoon pick-me-ups, or guilt-free desserts.

 A Simple, Healthy Treat for Any Time of Day

These 3-Ingredient Cookies are truly the easiest, healthiest cookies you can make. They’re quick to prepare, versatile, and a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. Whether you enjoy them plain or mix in your favorite add-ins, these cookies are sure to become a regular part of your snack rotation!