Almond Flour Banana Cookies (Vegan & Paleo)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. The combination of ripe bananas and almond flour gives the cookies a soft texture, while vanilla and coconut oil add a delightful fragrance and richness. Best of all, they’re vegan, paleo, gluten-free, and free from refined sugar, making them suitable for almost any diet. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a healthier dessert option, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ¼ cup almond flour
• 1 ripe banana, large
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla
• ½ tsp baking soda

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth.
3. Add coconut oil, vanilla, almond flour, and baking soda to the mashed banana. Stir until well combined.
4. Place the mixture in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to chill.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture and place it onto the baking sheet. Wet your hands with water to form the cookies, as the dough may be sticky.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes to ensure they don’t burn.
7. Let the cookies cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10 cookies
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Additional time: 15 minutes (for chilling the dough)
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate-banana combo.
• Mix in some chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Try adding coconut flakes or dried fruit for a tropical twist.
• Dip the cookies in melted chocolate or spread almond butter on top for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store these cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. They should last for up to 5 days. For reheating, simply microwave them for a few seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use other gluten-free flours, but almond flour works best for texture and flavor in this recipe.

How ripe should the banana be?

The riper, the better! A very ripe banana will be sweeter and provide more moisture, perfect for these cookies.

Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?

Coconut flour is more absorbent than almond flour, so it may not work as a direct substitute. If using coconut flour, you might need to adjust the amount and add more liquid.

Can I make these cookies without coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with another oil, like olive or avocado oil, or even a nut butter for added flavor.

How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?

Wet your hands with a little water to easily form the cookies without the dough sticking.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to a month. Just scoop it into cookie portions, freeze on a tray, and then transfer to a container. Bake directly from frozen.

Are these cookies suitable for a low-carb diet?

These cookies are relatively low in carbs compared to regular cookies, but they may not be suitable for very strict low-carb or ketogenic diets due to the natural sugars in bananas.

How can I make these cookies crispier?

These cookies are designed to be soft. If you prefer a crispier texture, bake them a few minutes longer, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Can I add protein powder to the dough?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dough to increase its protein content. Just be mindful of the consistency, as the dough may become thicker.

Are these cookies vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, these cookies are both vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

Almond flour banana cookies are a quick and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to a healthy diet. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are perfect for busy days or as a make-ahead treat. Whether you’re following a vegan, paleo, or gluten-free diet, these cookies are a great choice that everyone will enjoy.