3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

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Sometimes, the simplest recipes turn out to be the most delightful. That’s exactly how I feel about these 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies. They are chewy, naturally sweetened, and packed with wholesome goodness — perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick yet satisfying breakfast. With minimal effort and just three pantry staples, these cookies are a game-changer.

I love how versatile these cookies are. Whether you prefer them plain, loaded with chocolate chips, or sprinkled with nuts, they always turn out amazing. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making them a great option for a variety of dietary needs.

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Why You’ll Love These 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

• Quick and Easy: With only three simple ingredients, these cookies come together in no time.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with whole oats and naturally sweetened with bananas, they offer a guilt-free treat.
• Customizable: Add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts can easily elevate the flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

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What Kind of Oats Should I Use?

For the best texture, I recommend using old-fashioned rolled oats. They hold their shape well during baking, giving the cookies a satisfying chewiness. If you prefer a softer texture, quick oats can be used as an alternative — they’ll blend more seamlessly into the cookie dough. However, avoid steel-cut oats as they are too hard and won’t cook properly in this recipe.

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Options for Substitutions

While these cookies shine with just three ingredients, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Here are some substitution ideas:

• Bananas: If you’re out of bananas, try using unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree for a similar texture.
• Oats: Swap rolled oats for quick oats if you want a softer cookie.
• Add-ins: Elevate the flavor with extras like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts.
• Sweetener: If your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey can enhance the sweetness.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to create a warm and cozy flavor profile.

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Ingredients for These 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

• Ripe Bananas: The key to natural sweetness and moisture. The riper the bananas, the better — they mash easily and provide rich flavor.
• Rolled Oats: These form the base of the cookies, giving them structure and a chewy texture. Rolled oats are ideal, but quick oats can be used for a softer bite.
• Chocolate Chips (Optional but Recommended): Adding chocolate chips gives these cookies a delightful indulgent touch. You can also swap them for raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for variety.

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Step 1: Mash the Bananas

Start by peeling and mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to create a smooth, creamy texture with minimal lumps.

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Step 2: Add the Oats

Stir the rolled oats into the mashed bananas until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape when scooped.

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Step 3: Mix in Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If you’re adding chocolate chips or any other mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts, fold them into the oat and banana mixture at this stage.

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Step 4: Form the Cookies

Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Flatten each mound gently with the back of a spoon to form a cookie shape.

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Step 5: Bake

Place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until they are set and slightly golden around the edges.

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Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store them for later.

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How Long to Cook the 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

These cookies bake best at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are slightly golden, and the cookies feel firm to the touch. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.

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Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal results.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: These cookies continue to firm up as they cool, so let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them.
• Balance the Texture: If your dough feels too dry, add a little extra mashed banana. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in some additional oats.
• Add Spices for Flavor: A dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract can elevate the taste beautifully.
• Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping Ripe Bananas: Using underripe bananas will leave your cookies bland and dry. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and softer your cookies will be.
• Overbaking: Since these cookies lack traditional flour and butter, overbaking can make them tough and dry. Keep an eye on them and pull them out once the edges are lightly golden.
• Adding Too Many Mix-Ins: While extras like chocolate chips and nuts are delicious, adding too much can cause the cookies to crumble or lose their chewy texture.
• Not Mixing Thoroughly: Ensure the oats are evenly coated with mashed bananas to prevent dry patches in your cookies.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: These cookies firm up as they cool, so transferring them too soon may cause them to fall apart.

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What to Serve With 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

1. Yogurt Parfait

Layer your cookies with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey for a wholesome breakfast.

2. Smoothie Bowl

Pair these cookies with a refreshing smoothie bowl topped with granola and fresh fruit.

3. Nut Butter Spread

A swipe of peanut butter or almond butter on top of the cookies adds protein and extra flavor.

4. Fruit Salad

Fresh fruit like strawberries, oranges, and kiwi offers a vibrant, juicy pairing for these chewy cookies.

5. Coffee or Tea

The mild sweetness of the cookies pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea.

6. Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy)

For a classic pairing, enjoy these cookies with a glass of milk for dunking.

7. Cheese and Crackers

For a savory twist, combine these cookies with some sharp cheese and whole-grain crackers.

8. Trail Mix Bowl

Crumble these cookies over a bowl of trail mix for a snack loaded with textures and flavors.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Adding a piece of parchment paper between layers prevents sticking.
• Refrigerator: For longer freshness, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their chewy texture.
• Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per cookie (based on a batch of 12 cookies):

• Calories: ~90
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

These cookies are naturally low in fat, high in fiber, and a fantastic energy-boosting snack for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Thaw frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing them to ensure the right texture in your cookie dough.

2. Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these cookies are naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! The base recipe is already vegan. Just be sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips if you’re adding them.

4. Can I add protein powder to these cookies?

Yes! Adding a scoop of protein powder can enhance the nutritional value. If the dough feels too dry after adding protein powder, mix in an extra mashed banana or a splash of almond milk.

5. Why are my cookies falling apart?

This can happen if the mixture is too dry. Try adding a bit more mashed banana to improve the binding.

6. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before shaping and baking.

7. How can I make these cookies sweeter?

If your bananas aren’t very ripe, adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey can boost the sweetness.

8. Can I use peanut butter in this recipe?

Definitely! Stir in a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter for added richness and flavor.

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Conclusion

3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are the perfect solution for busy mornings, snack cravings, or even a light dessert. They’re simple to make, incredibly versatile, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your favorite mix-ins, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy their chewy goodness straight from the oven or as a make-ahead treat for your week ahead!

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