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Cherry and Poppy Seed Oat Cookies

Cherries and poppy seeds are a much-loved combination in Central European baking, so it's no surprise that these simple Cherry and Poppy Seed Oat Cookies work so well. Naturally sweetened with bananas, they contain no added sugar or oil, making them a wholesome choice for breakfast, morning snacking or afternoon tea. The bananas keep the cookies soft and moist, while the cherries add little bursts of fruitiness and the poppy seeds provide a gentle crunch. For an even softer texture and extra protein, you can add an egg or a couple of Tbsps of ground almonds to the mixture. These cookies are quick to prepare and can be baked either in the oven or air fryer. They are also a useful make-ahead snack, as they keep well for several days.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 4 hours
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Cuisine: Mid&East European
Calories: 1234
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
  • 1 egg optional or 2 Tbsp ground almonds
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup rolled oats gluten-free, if needed
  • ¾ cup pitted and chopped cherries

Method
 

  1. Mash the bananas in a mixing bowl.
  2. Stir in the poppy seeds, vanilla extract and either the egg or ground almonds, if using.
  3. Add the cinnamon and rolled oats, then mix well until combined.
  4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
  5. Shape the mixture into several balls, then flatten them slightly between your palms to form cookies.
  6. Oven Method: preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking parchment.
  7. Place the cookies on the tray and bake for 18–25 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until lightly golden.
  8. Air Fryer Method: Place the cookies in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between them.
  9. Bake at 180°C for 12–13 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.
  10. Leave the cookies to cool before serving.
  11. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen and thawed as needed.