Craving a delicious and healthy treat? These Vanilla Bean Banana Oat Biscotti are a perfect choice. You’ll love this crunchy, flavorful take on Healthy Banana Oat Baked Goods, ideal for dipping into your morning coffee or enjoying as a satisfying snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe, spotty bananas for natural sweetness.
- Rolled Oats: Quick oats can work but may change the texture slightly.
- Whole Wheat Flour: All-purpose flour is an alternative, but whole wheat adds more fiber.
- Vanilla Bean Paste: Vanilla extract is a good substitute.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey are great options.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup ripe mashed banana (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (2 rounds of baking)
- Servings: 12 biscotti
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories (without optional add-ins)
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowls, baking sheet, parchment paper, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla bean paste. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. If you’re using optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, stir them into the dry ingredients now.
3. Form the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. It will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape.
4. Shape the Logs
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log, about 8-9 inches long and 2 inches wide, on the prepared baking sheet.
5. First Bake
Bake the logs for 25 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the logs cool for about 10-15 minutes on the sheet. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
6. Slice and Second Bake
Carefully transfer the slightly cooled logs to a cutting board. Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice each log diagonally into ¾-inch thick pieces. Lay the sliced biscotti cut-side down back onto the baking sheet. Bake for another 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the biscotti are dry and crisp.
Variation Ideas
- Citrus Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright flavor.
- Spice It Up: Include ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming touch.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in different types of chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios.
- Chocolate Dip: Once cooled, dip one end of the biscotti in melted dark chocolate.
Storage Instructions
Store your Vanilla Bean Banana Oat Biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can, but quick oats might result in a slightly less chewy texture.
Q: Are these biscotti gluten-free?
A: If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free flour blend, they can be made gluten-free.
Q: How do I know when the bananas are ripe enough?
A: Look for bananas with many brown spots on the peel; this indicates they are sweet and easy to mash.
Q: Can I skip the second bake?
A: Skipping the second bake will result in a softer cookie, not the traditional crisp biscotti texture.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Q: What makes these “healthy banana oat baked goods”?
A: These biscotti use whole grains, natural sweeteners, and ripe bananas, offering fiber and nutrients compared to traditional recipes.
