Name: Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 2 h 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large egg; 2 small/medium or 1 extra-large ripe bananas (about 1/2 heaping cup mashed banana); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened, 1/2 of 1 stick); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

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If you’re looking for a cookie that strikes the perfect balance between chewy, sweet, and wholesome, then this Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. These cookies are packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the comforting texture of old-fashioned oats, and the irresistible melty goodness of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Whether you’re baking for an afternoon snack, a lunchbox treat, or just because you deserve something delicious, these cookies deliver both flavor and heartiness in every bite. Let me walk you through this fantastic recipe that brings together simple ingredients into a truly delightful cookie experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A stack of three chunky oatmeal chocolate chip cookies sits on a smooth white plate, each cookie thick and textured with visible oats and melted dark brown chocolate chips embedded throughout. The top cookie is slightly broken, revealing soft, rich melted chocolate inside. The cookies are light golden brown with a rough surface, and a small crumb lies next to the plate on a white marbled surface background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role—from the creaminess of butter to the burst of chocolate chips—resulting in moist, chewy cookies that are full of character.

Egg: Acts as a binder keeping the dough together and adding softness.
Ripe bananas: Naturally sweet and add moisture plus a tender crumb without needing extra fat.
Light brown sugar: Adds rich caramel notes and helps keep cookies chewy.
Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and crunch.
Unsalted butter: Provides body, flavor, and that classic cookie richness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all other flavors with a warm, fragrant touch.
Old-fashioned whole rolled oats: Give a hearty texture and nutty flavor that’s so satisfying.
All-purpose flour: Creates structure and keeps the cookies tender yet sturdy.
Cinnamon (optional): Adds gentle warmth and subtle spice, perfect with bananas.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread just right.
Salt: Amplifies sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The real star, offering pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by adding your egg, whole ripe bananas (no need to mash beforehand, which actually adds a lovely texture), both sugars, softened butter, and vanilla extract into your mixer bowl. Beat these together on medium-high for about 4 minutes until well combined. Don’t worry if the dough isn’t smooth or fluffy—it’s supposed to have small banana chunks and a slightly looser consistency than traditional cookie dough.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually mix in your oats, flour, cinnamon (if using), baking soda, and salt. Beat just until everything comes together, which should take about a minute. This step ensures your cookies will have the perfect chewy, tender texture and just the right hint of spice.

Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Last but not least, add the chocolate chips and mix on low for about 30 seconds to evenly distribute them throughout the dough without overworking it. Those melty pockets of chocolate are what make this recipe truly irresistible.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop, 1/4-cup measure, or your hands, portion out about 14 generous mounds of dough. Place them on a plate or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 5 days. Chilling is key here — it prevents the cookies from spreading too thin, giving you that ideal thick and chewy texture you want from a Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet lined with a Silpat or sprayed with cooking spray. Arrange your cookie dough mounds at least 2 inches apart and bake for about 13 minutes. The cookies should appear just set around the edges and slightly glossy with a soft center. Resist the urge to overbake—they’re meant to be tender and chewy with a gentle bite.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool right on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This gives them time to settle and finish cooking gently from residual heat. And then, get ready to enjoy one of the best cookies you’ll bake from scratch—the ultimate comfort treat.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

A close-up view of a soft cookie with a light brown textured dough that has small oat pieces mixed throughout. The cookie is filled with plenty of shiny dark brown chocolate chips on the top and sides, creating a bumpy surface. The cookie sits on a white plate with scattered oat flakes around it. In the background, there is a slightly blurred view of another cookie with the same look. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these cookies are fantastic on their own, you can elevate them by adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving. These small garnishes can bring out extra sweetness or a savory contrast that highlights the chocolate and banana flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea. The creamy drink complements the chewy texture and sweet banana notes perfectly. For a healthier option, a smoothie or a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side makes for a nourishing, balanced snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these cookies into a dessert sandwich by slathering peanut butter, almond butter, or cream cheese frosting between two cookies. You can also crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a delicious crumble topping. The natural flavors lend themselves well to many creative treats, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should keep their freshness and chewiness for about 3 to 4 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

This Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is freezer-friendly! Freeze the unbaked dough mounds on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just pop them straight into the oven and add a minute or two to the baking time. You can also freeze baked cookies in an airtight container to preserve their flavor.

Reheating

To revive the soft chewy texture, warm your cookies briefly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or toast them lightly in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth that makes these cookies truly unforgettable.

FAQs

Can I use ripe bananas that are very soft or overripe?

Absolutely! The riper, the better for sweetness and moisture. Just make sure they’re not moldy or spoiled. Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots add the best flavor to this Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling the dough is essential for this recipe. It helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading, resulting in thick, chewy cookies that are simply perfect.

Can I substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative?

Definitely. Using plant-based butter or coconut oil works well. Keep in mind it might slightly change the texture or flavor, but your cookies will still be delicious and moist.

Is it okay to use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are preferred because they add the ideal chewy texture and don’t break down too much. Quick oats can work in a pinch but may yield softer, less textured cookies.

How long will these cookies keep fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet to maintain freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is more than just a cookie—it’s a warm hug in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an ideal recipe for bakers of all levels who want something wholesome yet indulgent. I encourage you to try it, share it, and savor those moments when a perfect cookie can brighten your day in the most delicious way.