I call these breakfast cookies because they are made with a few simple ingredients that you can feel good about having first thing in the morning. In reality, they are a little sweet (with both dates and bananas) so I typically enjoy one of these cookies when I need an energy boost in the afternoon! Dates are this week’s ingredient of the week and I love having them around! They are deliciously sweet and are a great way to sweeten up a dish without using any refined and processed sugars. I sometimes throw one into a smoothie, add them so salads as a contrast to salty cheese or olives, and of course I enjoy baking with them!
Ingredients:
3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
¾ cup pitted medjool dates, chopped finely
¼ cup coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ tsp salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl, add all ingredients and mix well to combine.
Use a large spoon to scoop the dough and place onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Gently flatten the cookies with the back of your hand or a spoon so they’re flat.
Bake cookies for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let cool before serving.
NOTE: These store well in the freezer for a quick grab and go breakfast or snack! (best when heated back up)
Health Benefits of Dates:
Dates are high in soluble fiber, helping to keep bowel movements regular
They contain multiple antioxidants, which boost your immune system, help fight inflammation, and protect your cells from free radicals
They are high in both phosphorus and calcium, which optimizes bones health
Dates contain potassium, which provides our bodies with electrolytes and maintains water/salt balance
They are known to promote cervical dilation and can even stimulate uterine contractions when had during the third trimester in pregnancy
Sources and Additional Reading:
