Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Energy Cookies (No Sugar, No Flour!)

I’ve crafted these naturally sweetened energy cookies that combine the classic comfort of peanut butter and banana with wholesome oats and walnuts. Inspired by traditional banana bread but reimagined as a portable, nutrient-dense cookie, this recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into the perfect pre-workout snack or healthy breakfast option.

Why These Energy Cookies Stand Out

These cookies deliver sustained energy through complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. They’re naturally sweetened with banana and just a touch of honey, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals or anyone looking to reduce refined sugar intake. Plus, they’re gluten-free when made with certified gluten-free oats!

Ingredients

Core Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (100g / 3.5 oz)
• 1 large ripe banana (about 120g / 4.2 oz)
• ¼ cup natural peanut butter (60g / 2.1 oz)
• 2 tablespoons honey (42g / 1.5 oz)

Add-ins:

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts (30g / 1 oz)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Two mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork for mashing banana
• Cookie scoop (optional)

Detailed Instructions

Preparation Phase (5 minutes)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper
3. Ensure banana is properly ripened (yellow with brown spots)

Creating the Cookie Mixture (10 minutes)

1. Prepare Wet Ingredients:

• Mash banana until completely smooth
• Add peanut butter and honey
• Mix until well combined and creamy
• Pro tip: Warm peanut butter slightly if too stiff

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In separate bowl, mix rolled oats and walnuts
• Add cinnamon and salt
• Stir to distribute spices evenly

1. Mix Everything Together:

• Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients
• Fold together until thoroughly combined
• Mixture should be thick and slightly sticky

Forming and Baking (15-20 minutes)

1. Shape the Cookies:

• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions
• Slightly flatten each cookie
• Leave space between cookies
• Makes approximately 12-15 cookies

1. Baking Process:

• Place in preheated oven
• Bake 12-15 minutes
• Look for golden edges
• Centers should be set but still slightly soft

Cooling and Storage (10 minutes)

1. Let cool on baking sheet 5 minutes
2. Transfer to wire rack
3. Cool completely before storing

Storage Guidelines

• Room temperature: 3 days in airtight container
• Refrigerator: Up to 1 week
• Freezer: Up to 3 months

Nutrition Information

Per cookie (recipe makes 12 cookies):

• Calories: 95
• Protein: 3g
• Healthy Fats: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Natural Sugars: 4g
• Potassium: 85mg
• Iron: 0.5mg

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use overripe bananas for natural sweetness
2. Choose natural peanut butter without added oils or sugar
3. Don’t overbake – cookies should remain slightly soft
4. Allow to cool completely for best texture
5. For extra protein, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder

Variations

1. Nut-Free Version:

• Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds
• Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter

1. Extra Protein:

• Add 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
• Include 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1. Different Flavor Profiles:

• Add dark chocolate chips
• Include dried cranberries
• Try different spice combinations

These wholesome energy cookies are perfect for:

• Pre-workout fuel
• Post-workout recovery
• Healthy breakfast on-the-go
• Afternoon energy boost
• Kid-friendly lunchbox treat

The combination of complex carbohydrates from oats, healthy fats from nuts, and natural sugars from banana and honey provides sustained energy release, making these cookies an ideal choice for active individuals or anyone seeking a nutritious snack option.