Vegan running fuel anyone?

Yumm!

I found this recipe via Pinterest, posted by http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/05/18/gluten-free-peanut-butter-banana-chocolate-chunk-cookies/  This little treat is full of chocolaty, peanuty, banana-ee goodness.  They are excellent pre or post workout, great to grab as you're running out the door, and a feel good treat you can give to the kids after school.  The best part about these is the flexibility, you can try different nut butters, change up the spices, and/or trade the coconut for dried fruit.  

Peanut Butter & Banana Chocolate Chunk Cookies

3 large, very ripe bananas

1/2 cup peanut butter, preferably all-natural (just peanuts), or almond butter
1/4 cup canola or olive oil
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 cups old-fashioned (large flake) or quick oats
If you want these gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free oats.
1/3 cup shredded coconut (optional)
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 – 1 cup chopped vegan chocolate chips

Look at these all natural ingredients...No refined sugars here folks!

1. Preheat oven to 350˚F.
2.  In a large bowl mash the bananas with the peanut butter, oil and vanilla.
3.  In another bowl stir together the oats, coconut, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients along with the chocolate and stir until combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet that is sprayed with nonstick spray.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until just set. Makes about 2 1/2 dozen cookies.