Healthy Monster Cookies
Are you ready to sink your teeth into a cookie that’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients? Welcome to the world of Healthy Monster Cookies! These delightful treats combine the classic cookie experience with a healthy twist, making them perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the guilt. With oats, bananas, and nut butter, they’re not just cookies; they’re a powerhouse of nutrition. Let’s dive into this fun and easy recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Healthy Monster Cookies are loved by both kids and adults alike. Their chewy texture, combined with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of candy buttons, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is irresistible. You can pack them with your favorite add-ins, and they can easily be customized to fit dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing school lunches, or simply enjoying a snack at home, these cookies will be a hit!
What’s in the Bowl
To make these delightful Healthy Monster Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats – Gluten-free if needed, these oats provide a hearty base and a satisfying chew.
- 3 large bananas – Mashed, they add natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter – A great source of healthy fats and protein; you can substitute it with any nut or seed butter of your choice.
- 1/4-1/2 cup candy buttons – Think M&M’s, vegan M&M’s, or sugar-free candy buttons for a pop of color and sweetness.
Recommended Tools
To make your Healthy Monster Cookies, having the right tools can make the process smoother:
- Mixing bowls – A large bowl for mixing all your ingredients together.
- Fork or potato masher – Perfect for mashing the bananas to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Baking sheet – A non-stick or lined baking sheet to bake your cookies.
- Cookie scoop – Makes portioning your cookie dough a breeze.
- Oven – Preheat it to ensure even baking.
Healthy Monster Cookies: How It’s Done
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating these delicious cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the 3 large bananas until smooth. You want them to be free of lumps for even distribution in the cookie dough.
Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter
Add the 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the mashed bananas. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Oats
Stir in the 2 cups of rolled oats. Mix until the oats are fully incorporated into the banana-peanut butter mixture.
Step 5: Fold in Candy Buttons
Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of candy buttons to the mixture, folding them in gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 6: Scoop the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Healthy Monster Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Smart Substitutions
If you want to customize your Healthy Monster Cookies further, consider these substitutions:
- Nut butter – Swap peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
- Sweetener – If you prefer, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Add-ins – Incorporate nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free – Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if needed.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough; just fold until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- If using natural nut butters, you may need to adjust the consistency with a little more oats or a touch of flour.
- These cookies can vary in sweetness based on the ripeness of the bananas and the type of candy buttons used.
Prep Ahead & Store
You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the balls. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
To store baked cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the fridge for up to two weeks. These cookies also freeze well, so feel free to stash some away for later indulgence!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make the cookies vegan, ensure you use a plant-based butter alternative and vegan candy buttons. The bananas already provide moisture and sweetness!
Can I omit the candy buttons?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet cookie, feel free to omit the candy buttons or substitute them with dark chocolate chips or nuts.
What’s the best way to reheat these cookies?
To enjoy these cookies warm, simply microwave them for a few seconds or pop them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you’re looking for other healthy and quick recipes, check out these links:
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Healthy Banana Bread
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Healthy Oatmeal Cookies
Save & Share
If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Healthy Monster Cookies are a treat everyone will enjoy, and they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply as a sweet snack at home. Snap a picture of your cookies and tag your friends to spread the joy of baking!
Indulging in Healthy Monster Cookies is a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while nourishing your body. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up a batch any day of the week. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own, whether through different nut butters, add-ins, or sweeteners. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to create a cookie that’s both fun and healthy; you won’t regret it!
Healthy Monster Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mash the 3 large bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the mashed bananas and stir until well combined and creamy.
- Stir in the 2 cups of rolled oats until fully incorporated.
- Fold in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of candy buttons gently to ensure even distribution.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for best sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t overmix; fold the dough gently to keep cookies tender.
- Adjust consistency with more oats if using natural nut butters.
