Microwave Banana Oatmeal Cookie Balls

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These Microwave Banana Oatmeal Cookie Balls are soft, warm, and naturally sweet — made with just four basic ingredients I almost always have on hand. It's an easy no-bake cookie recipe that's perfect for snack time.

Close-up photo of a single freshly baked banana oatmeal cookie ball, with more cookies served on a plate in the background.

They take just 5 minutes to prep and cook in the microwave in about a minute, making them ideal for busy afternoons or last-minute snack.

If you’re loving simple, wholesome cookies like this one, be sure to check out my Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Applesauce. Another easy cookie recipe for snack time or lunchboxes!

A freshly baked banana oatmeal cookie balls on a plate.

Ingredients

Banana: Naturally sweet and helps bind everything together.
Peanut Butter: Adds richness, flavor, and a little protein to keep snack time satisfying.
Quick Oats: The chewy base that holds it all together and gives a hearty texture.
Chocolate Chips: Add a chocolaty flavor to every bite.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Microwave Banana Oatmeal Cookie Balls

A fork mashing a ripe banana in a small bowl.

Mash the banana well with a fork in a small bowl. It should be smooth, not lumpy. That’s why using a ripe banana is important.

A bowl of mashed banana, peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips.

Mix in the peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips.

Shaped cookie dough balls arranged on a plate, ready to be baked.

Shape the dough into 6 equal balls and place them on a microwave-safe plate.

Put the plate in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute and 10 seconds.

Let them cool completely before eating.

Hint: Use a ripe banana — the spottier, the better! It’ll mash smoother and give your cookie balls a naturally sweet, soft texture without needing extra sugar.

Substitutions & Variations

If you don't have a peanut butter, you can swap it with almond butter, sunflower seed butter (for nut-free), or even tahini.
If you don't have a chocolate chips, try raisins, chopped dates, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts.
For more Add-ins, a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla adds warmth and flavor.
To make it extra hearty, stir in a spoonful of chia seeds, flaxseed, or shredded coconut for a fiber boost.
If you want to remove the nuts, use sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.

💭Crucial Success Tips

Mash that banana really well. No one wants banana chunks in their cookie balls — a smooth mash gives the best texture.
Use quick oats. Old-fashioned oats make the texture a little too chewy. Stick with quick oats for the right consistency.
Microwave times may vary. Depending on your microwave, you may need a few extra seconds. Start with 1 minute, then add 10-second bursts if needed.
Let them cool. They’ll be hot right out of the microwave and set up better once they cool completely.
Shape evenly. Try to make all the balls about the same size so they cook evenly in the microwave.
Don't overcrowd the plate. Space them apart slightly for more even cooking.

FAQ

Can I skip the microwave and eat them raw?

Yes! Just chill them for about 30–60 minutes in the fridge to firm up. They’re delicious as a no-bake snack too.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Can my toddler eat these?

Yes — just make sure there are no large chocolate chunks, and use a nut butter that works for their age and dietary needs.

📖 Recipe

6 cookies

Microwave Banana Oatmeal Cookie Balls

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 1 minute

Additional Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 6 minutes

These Microwave Banana Oatmeal Cookie Balls are a fast and simple snack made with basic ingredients. They're no-bake and ready in minutes, offering a quick way to curb sweet cravings without much effort.

Ingredients

1 banana, make sure it’s ripe
¼ cup peanut butter
1 cup quick oats
¼ cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Mash the banana well with a fork in a small bowl. It should be smooth, not lumpy. That’s why using a ripe banana is important.
Mix in the peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips.
Shape the dough into 6 equal balls and place them on a microwave-safe plate.
Put the plate in the microwave and cook on high for 1 minute and 10 seconds.
Let them cool completely before eating.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 157Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 82mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 3gSugar: 7gProtein: 4g

How to Store Microwave Banana Oatmeal Cookie Balls

Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4–5 days. Great for grab-and-go snacks!

Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp or pop in the microwave for a few seconds.