These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies are a game-changer for busy bakers. With just oats, banana, and raisins, you can make soft, chewy cookies that taste amazing and require zero refined sugar. Perfect for quick snacks, last-minute desserts, or healthy baking with kids.
Key Takeaways
- Only 3 ingredients needed: Rolled oats, ripe banana, and raisins are all you need to make these simple cookies—no flour, sugar, or oil required.
- Naturally sweet and healthy: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, while oats add fiber and protein, making these cookies a nutritious snack option.
- Quick and easy to make: Mix, scoop, and bake in under 20 minutes—ideal for when you need a fast dessert or snack.
- Kid-friendly and customizable: Let kids help mix and shape the cookies; easily add chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Gluten-free and vegan-friendly: Naturally free from common allergens, these cookies work for most dietary needs with simple swaps.
- Perfect for meal prep: Store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great make-ahead snack for school, work, or travel.
- Minimal cleanup: One bowl, no electric mixer—just a spoon and baking sheet, so cleanup is a breeze.
📑 Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies
Imagine biting into a warm, chewy cookie that’s soft in the center and slightly crisp around the edges—all made with just three simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. That’s the magic of these 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies. They’re not just easy; they’re downright delightful. Whether you’re a baking newbie, a busy parent, or someone looking to cut back on sugar and processed ingredients, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.
What makes these cookies so special is their simplicity and wholesome taste. There’s no need for fancy equipment, hard-to-find ingredients, or hours in the kitchen. In fact, you can go from hungry to happy in under 20 minutes. And because they’re naturally sweetened with ripe banana and packed with fiber-rich oats, they’re a treat you can feel good about eating—even for breakfast (we won’t tell!).
What You’ll Need: The 3 Simple Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimalism. You only need three ingredients, and chances are, you’ve got them all sitting in your pantry or fruit bowl right now.
1. Rolled Oats
Rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) are the foundation of these cookies. They provide structure, chewiness, and a hearty texture. Make sure to use rolled oats and not instant or quick oats, as they can make the cookies too soft or mushy. If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for certified gluten-free oats to ensure they’re safe for your diet.
2. Ripe Banana
A very ripe banana is key here—think brown spots and soft texture. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. The banana acts as a natural binder and sweetener, replacing the need for eggs, oil, or sugar. It also adds moisture, helping the cookies stay soft and chewy.
3. Raisins
Raisins add bursts of natural sweetness and a satisfying chew. They’re the perfect complement to the oats and banana. If you don’t have raisins, you can easily swap them for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these cookies is as easy as 1-2-3—literally. There’s no mixing bowl drama, no creaming butter and sugar, and no waiting for ingredients to come to room temperature. Let’s walk through the process so you can bake with confidence.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have either, a light spray of non-stick cooking spray on a regular baking sheet works too.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a medium bowl, peel and mash one ripe banana with a fork until smooth. You want it to be mostly lump-free, but a few small chunks are totally fine—they’ll add texture. The banana should yield about ½ cup when mashed.
Step 3: Mix in the Oats and Raisins
Add 1 cup of rolled oats and ½ cup of raisins to the mashed banana. Stir everything together with a spoon or spatula until well combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky—that’s exactly what you want. If it feels too wet, add a few extra oats. If it’s too dry, mash in a little more banana.
Step 4: Scoop and Shape
Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart—they won’t spread much, but you want airflow for even baking. Gently press each mound down with the back of the spoon to flatten slightly. This helps them bake evenly and gives them that classic cookie shape.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a little soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Don’t overbake—these cookies are meant to be chewy, not crispy. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies
Even simple recipes can benefit from a few pro tips. Here’s how to make sure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Use Very Ripe Bananas
The riper the banana, the better. Overripe bananas are sweeter, easier to mash, and bind the ingredients more effectively. If your bananas aren’t quite there yet, let them sit on the counter for a day or two until they develop brown spots.
Don’t Overmix
Once you’ve combined the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the cookies dense. A few lumps are totally fine—they’ll disappear during baking.
Customize to Your Taste
While the base recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for warmth, a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch, or a few dark chocolate chips for indulgence. Just remember: adding more ingredients means it’s no longer a “3 ingredient” recipe—but who’s counting when the result is this good?
Store Properly
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they’ll keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes to revive their softness.
Nutritional Benefits of These Simple Cookies
It’s not every day that a dessert can double as a healthy snack—but these cookies do just that. Let’s break down why they’re a smart choice for your diet.
High in Fiber
Oats are one of the best sources of soluble fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full longer. Just one cookie provides a good dose of fiber, making it a satisfying snack that won’t leave you hungry an hour later.
Naturally Sweetened
With no added sugar, these cookies rely on the natural sweetness of banana and raisins. This makes them a great option for anyone looking to reduce refined sugar intake without sacrificing flavor.
Rich in Potassium and Vitamins
Bananas are packed with potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. Combined with the nutrients in oats and raisins, these cookies offer a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals in every bite.
Gluten-Free and Vegan
As long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these cookies are naturally gluten-free. They’re also completely plant-based, making them suitable for vegans and those with dairy or egg allergies.
Creative Variations and Add-Ins
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the fun begins. Here are a few delicious ways to switch things up and keep your cookie game exciting.
Chocolate Chip Bliss
Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips before baking. Dark chocolate chips add richness without overpowering the natural flavors. For a healthier twist, try sugar-free or dairy-free chocolate chips.
Cinnamon Spice
Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the mix for a warm, cozy flavor. Pair it with a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.
Peanut Butter Swirl
Mix in 1–2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter with the mashed banana. The result? A slightly nutty, protein-packed cookie that’s perfect for post-workout snacking.
Tropical Twist
Swap raisins for unsweetened dried pineapple or mango. Add a pinch of coconut flakes for a taste of the tropics.
Perfect for Every Occasion
These cookies aren’t just for dessert. Their versatility makes them ideal for all kinds of moments.
Quick Breakfast
Pair one with a glass of milk or a piece of fruit for a balanced morning meal. They’re filling, nutritious, and ready in minutes.
After-School Snack
Kids will love helping make them—and even more, they’ll love eating them. Keep a batch in the fridge for after-school hunger pangs.
Travel-Friendly Treat
Pack them in lunchboxes, take them on road trips, or stash them in your bag for a healthy on-the-go snack. No refrigeration needed for short trips.
Last-Minute Guest Gift
Whip up a batch, place them in a cute jar, and tie with a ribbon. They make a thoughtful, homemade gift that’s both delicious and wholesome.
Conclusion
These 3 ingredient oatmeal cookies prove that great baking doesn’t have to be complicated. With just oats, banana, and raisins, you can create soft, chewy, satisfying cookies that are as good for your body as they are for your taste buds. They’re quick, customizable, and perfect for any time of day.
Whether you’re short on time, ingredients, or energy, this recipe has your back. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things bring the most joy. So next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the packaged snacks and reach for this wholesome alternative. Your kitchen—and your taste buds—will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
It’s best to use rolled oats for the right texture. Quick oats can make the cookies too soft or mushy since they absorb more moisture. Stick with old-fashioned oats for the best results.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. Regular oats may be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing, so check the label if you have a sensitivity.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Do I need to add salt or baking powder?
No—these cookies rely on the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adding salt or baking powder isn’t necessary and would change the simplicity of the 3-ingredient concept.
Can I make these cookies without raisins?
Yes! Swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, nuts, or even chocolate chips. Just keep the total amount around ½ cup to maintain the right texture.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. They’re best enjoyed fresh but still tasty when reheated.