2-Ingredient Sesame Banana Breakfast Cookies: A Healthy Start to Your Day

Transform your overripe bananas into these delightful, nutritious breakfast cookies that combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutty richness of sesame seeds. Originally inspired by traditional Middle Eastern sesame treats, these cookies offer a modern, health-conscious twist perfect for busy mornings or afternoon snacks. What makes these cookies special is their simplicity – just two base ingredients create a satisfying, nutrient-dense treat that’s naturally gluten-free and vegan.

Ingredients

Base Recipe:

  • 2 very ripe bananas (about 240g/8.5 oz)
  • 2 cups sesame seeds (280g/10 oz)

Optional Flavoring (choose one):

  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) orange extract
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) rose water
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) finely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 teaspoon (2.6g) ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons (10g) unsweetened cocoa powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature
  1. Banana Preparation:
  • In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the bananas
  • Use a fork to create a smooth, lump-free consistency
  • The texture should resemble a thick puree
  1. Mixing:
  • Add your chosen flavoring (if using)
  • Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavoring
  • Add sesame seeds gradually while stirring
  • Continue mixing until you achieve a thick, sticky consistency
  1. Shaping:
  • Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture
  • Place portions on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1-inch spacing
  • Flatten each cookie to approximately ¼ inch thickness
  • Use the back of a spoon to smooth the edges
  1. Baking:
  • Place in preheated oven
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes
  • Look for golden brown edges and firm centers
  • Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking
  1. Cooling:
  • Let cookies rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes
  • Transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling
  • Allow to cool completely before storing

Nutritional Information (per cookie, based on 10 servings)

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sugar: 4g (naturally occurring)
  • Calcium: 280mg
  • Iron: 2.5mg

Timing:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Bake Time: 15-18 minutes
  • Total Time: 25-28 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 cookies

Pro Tips and Tricks

  1. Banana Selection:
  • Choose bananas with dark spots on the peel
  • The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies
  • Freeze overripe bananas and thaw before using
  1. Sesame Seed Handling:
  • Toast sesame seeds lightly before using for enhanced flavor
  • Use a mix of black and white sesame seeds for visual appeal
  • Store unused sesame seeds in the freezer to prevent rancidity
  1. Texture Control:
  • For crispier cookies, flatten them more
  • For chewier cookies, leave them slightly thicker
  • Press edges with a fork for decorative pattern

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Seed Combinations:
  • Replace ½ cup sesame seeds with chia seeds
  • Mix in 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • Add 2 tablespoons flaxseeds for extra nutrition
  1. Flavor Enhancements:
  • Fold in dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, goji berries)
  • Add 1 tablespoon matcha powder for green tea flavor
  • Incorporate 1 teaspoon fresh ginger paste
  1. Texture Additions:
  • Sprinkle coconut flakes on top before baking
  • Add 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
  • Mix in 1/4 cup crushed nuts

Common FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and drain excess liquid before using. The cookies might be slightly more dense.

Q: Why aren’t my cookies crispy?
A: Ensure you’ve flattened them sufficiently and that your oven is properly preheated. Thicker cookies will remain softer.

Q: Can I make these sugar-free?
A: The recipe is naturally sugar-free, containing only the natural sugars from bananas.

Q: How can I make them more filling?
A: Add protein powder or ground nuts to the mixture, adjusting the banana quantity if needed for proper consistency.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  1. Counter Storage:
  • Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
  • Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking
  1. Refrigeration:
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
  • Allow to come to room temperature before serving
  1. Freezing:
  • Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months
  • Wrap individually in parchment paper
  • Store in a freezer-safe container
  • Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating
  1. Make-Ahead Options:
  • Prepare the banana mixture up to 24 hours in advance
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
  • Mix in sesame seeds just before baking
  • Shape and freeze unbaked cookies for up to 1 month