Transform your weight loss journey into a delightful experience with these Banana and Oatmeal Cookies. Crafted from wholesome ingredients, these cookies are not just a treat to your taste buds but also a friend to your health goals. Here’s how you can prepare them to enjoy three times a day, ensuring you stay satisfied without compromising on flavor or your weight loss efforts.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 80g nuts (your choice of almonds, walnuts, or pecans, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 10g vanilla sugar (or substitute with a dash of vanilla extract and a sweetener of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 120ml water (optional, see instructions)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 180°C (356°F). Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, chopped nuts, cocoa powder, vanilla sugar, and sesame seeds. Mix these dry ingredients well.
- Mash the Banana: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth. The banana acts as a natural sweetener and binder for the cookies.
- Combine: Add the mashed banana to the oat mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little water, but the moisture from the banana should typically be enough to bind the ingredients.
- Shape the Cookies: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into cookie shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You can adjust the size according to your preference, but remember that cooking times may vary based on the size.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and slightly golden. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your cookies.
- Cooling: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool down entirely. This step helps them firm up further.
Serving Suggestion:
- Breakfast: Start your day with two cookies and a piece of fruit for a balanced meal.
- Lunch: Enjoy the cookies as a sweet treat after a light, nutritious lunch.
- Dinner: Pair a cookie with a cup of herbal tea for a soothing, low-calorie end to your day.
Tips:
- Variety: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can use different types of nuts or seeds, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can last for several days, making them a convenient snack option.
These Banana and Oatmeal Cookies offer a delicious way to enjoy a treat without straying from your weight loss goals. Their natural sweetness and nutritional benefits make them a fantastic choice for any time of the day.