Oatmeal Toddler Breakfast Cookies: Easy & Healthy Recipe

Oatmeal toddler breakfast cookies: the name might sound like a mouthful, but trust me, these little bites of sunshine are a game-changer for busy mornings! Are you tired of the breakfast battle with your little one? Do you dream of a nutritious and delicious option that you can grab and go? Then you’ve come to the right place. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re packed with wholesome ingredients and designed with tiny hands (and appetites) in mind.

While the exact origin of breakfast cookies is a bit hazy, the concept of incorporating oats into baked goods has been around for centuries. Oats, a staple grain in many cultures, have long been recognized for their nutritional benefits and versatility. Think of Scottish oatcakes or hearty granola bars – these oatmeal toddler breakfast cookies are a modern, kid-friendly twist on that tradition.

What makes these cookies so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of soft texture, subtle sweetness, and the satisfying chewiness of oats. They’re also incredibly convenient. Bake a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have a healthy and delicious breakfast option ready to go all week long. Plus, they’re easily customizable to suit your toddler’s preferences and any dietary needs. Get ready to say goodbye to breakfast stress and hello to happy, healthy mornings!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter, or sunflower seed butter for allergies)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Optional mix-ins: 1/4 cup total of any combination of: chocolate chips (mini are great!), chopped nuts, dried cranberries, raisins, blueberries, shredded coconut, chia seeds, flax seeds

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Okay, let’s get started! These cookies are so easy to make, and I love that they’re packed with good stuff for my little one. The best part? You can customize them with whatever your toddler enjoys!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
2. Mash the banana. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until it’s nice and smooth. You don’t want any big chunks. The riper the banana, the sweeter the cookies will be!
3. Combine wet ingredients. Add the applesauce, milk, peanut butter (or your chosen alternative), and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. Make sure the peanut butter is fully incorporated; you don’t want any clumps.
4. Add dry ingredients. In the same bowl, add the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Incorporate mix-ins (optional). Now comes the fun part! If you’re using any mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or blueberries, gently fold them into the dough. I usually let my toddler help with this step – it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen!

Baking the Cookies

Now that the dough is ready, it’s time to bake these little treats!

1. Drop by spoonfuls onto the baking sheet. Use a spoon or a small cookie scoop to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking.
2. Flatten the cookies slightly. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers. This will help them bake evenly.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The cookies should be firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
4. Cool on the baking sheet. Once the cookies are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from breaking apart.

Tips and Variations

These cookies are incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to customize them to suit your toddler’s preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Make them gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the cookies are gluten-free.
• Make them dairy-free: Use a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
• Add some sweetness: If you want the cookies to be a little sweeter, you can add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the dough. However, remember that honey is not recommended for babies under one year old.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom.
• Add some veggies: Sneak in some finely grated zucchini or carrots for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make them ahead of time: The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
• Freezing instructions: These cookies freeze beautifully! Once they’re completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These oatmeal cookies are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve them with a glass of milk or a smoothie.
• Pack them in your toddler’s lunchbox.
• Offer them as a healthy snack after playtime.
• Crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal.

Important Notes

Always supervise your toddler while they are eating these cookies. Cut the cookies into smaller pieces if necessary to prevent choking. Be mindful of any allergies your child may have and adjust the ingredients accordingly. If you’re unsure about introducing a new ingredient to your toddler, consult with your pediatrician.

I hope you and your little one enjoy these delicious and nutritious oatmeal cookies! They’re a great way to start the day or satisfy a sweet craving without any guilt. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Oatmeal Toddler Breakfast Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a game-changer for busy mornings, a healthy snack solution, and a delicious way to sneak in some extra nutrients for your little one. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for any parent looking for a convenient and wholesome breakfast or snack option. The soft texture is perfect for little gums, and the subtle sweetness will appeal to even the pickiest eaters.

But why is this recipe a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the sheer convenience, it’s the peace of mind knowing exactly what’s going into your child’s food. No hidden sugars, no artificial ingredients, just simple, wholesome goodness. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out the fruit for other favorites like blueberries, chopped apples, or even a sprinkle of unsweetened shredded coconut. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These cookies are fantastic on their own, but you can also pair them with a dollop of plain yogurt or a small glass of milk for a more complete breakfast. For older toddlers, try spreading a thin layer of nut butter (if allergies aren’t a concern) for added protein and healthy fats.

Looking for variations? Consider these ideas:

* Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips for a special treat.
* Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies: Incorporate a tablespoon or two of peanut butter into the batter for a nutty flavor.
* Savory Oatmeal Cookies: Omit the sweetener and add shredded cheese and chopped vegetables like zucchini or carrots for a savory snack.
* Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies: Ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oats.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what your little one loves best.

I know how challenging it can be to find healthy and appealing options for toddlers, and that’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. These Oatmeal Toddler Breakfast Cookies have been a lifesaver in my own household, and I’m confident they’ll become a staple in yours too.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get baking! I promise you won’t regret it. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did your little one love them? Did you make any fun variations? Share your thoughts, photos, and tips in the comments below. Let’s create a community of parents who are passionate about providing healthy and delicious food for their children. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to see what you create! I am sure that your toddler will love these cookies.