Image Source from jeanneMerrill1

Healthy Air Fryer Breakfast Cookies Recipe

The morning rush often leaves us scrambling for a nutritious breakfast that can cater to our busy lifestyles. If you’ve ever wished for a quick, wholesome treat to start your day, look no further than these delightful air fryer breakfast cookies! Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also pack a nutritious punch, ensuring you have the energy to tackle your day ahead.

Why Choose Air Fryer Cookies?

Using an air fryer for baking cookies offers numerous benefits. This method provides a healthier cooking alternative by significantly reducing oil usage compared to traditional frying methods. The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and chewy. Plus, these breakfast cookies can be whipped up in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in a conventional oven.

Ingredients

You’ll be amazed at how straightforward this recipe is. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/2 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or dried fruits (optional)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. Mash the Banana: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. If you’re including chocolate chips or dried fruits, fold them in at this stage.
3. Form the Cookies: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out a portion of the mixture and shape it into cookies. Flatten them slightly for even cooking. Aim for a size of about two tablespoons per cookie.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

While you’re shaping the cookies, preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the cookies cook more evenly.

Step 3: Air Fry

1. Arrange the Cookies: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or give it a light spray of non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they have enough space around them to allow air to circulate.
2. Cook: Air fry the cookies for 8-10 minutes, checking for a golden-brown colour. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Step 4: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the air fryer and allow them to cool on a rack for a few minutes. They will firm up as they cool, becoming the perfect chewy treat for breakfast or a snack.

Customisation Ideas

These breakfast cookies are incredibly adaptable! Here are some ways to customise the recipe to suit your taste preferences:

• Add Flavours: Incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for an additional flavour kick.
• Mix in Proteins: Add protein powder for an extra energy boost.
• Experiment with Sweeteners: Adjust the sweetness by using different sweeteners or fruit purees.
• Include Seeds: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or pumpkin seeds can be added for added nutrition and crunch.

Conclusion

These healthy air fryer breakfast cookies are a fantastic way to kick-start your day. They are quick to prepare, nutritious, and delicious, making them an excellent choice for families on the go. With minimal prep and clean-up, you can indulge in guilt-free goodness that fuels your morning. Give this recipe a try, and pave the way for a tasty breakfast routine! Happy cooking!