As I rummaged through my kitchen, I stumbled upon two overripe bananas, their sweet aroma wafting through the air—perfect for transforming into something delightful. That’s when the idea struck me: Banana Bread Cookies! With their chewy texture and comforting flavors, these cookies are not only a quick fix for sweet cravings but also a fantastic way to minimize waste. They’re super easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for busy home chefs like us craving a homemade treat. Plus, with the option of adding chocolate chips or nuts, you can customize each batch to suit your taste. Ready to experience a new twist on a classic? Let’s bake these Banana Bread Cookies together!
Why are Banana Bread Cookies so irresistible?
Deliciously unique: These Banana Bread Cookies combine the best of both worlds—each bite offers the comforting flavors of traditional banana bread with the fun, chewy texture of a cookie.
Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and only 12 minutes of baking, you can satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
Customizable options: Whether you prefer chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon, these cookies are easy to tailor to your taste, making them a hit for everyone.
Waste not, want not: Transform those overripe bananas into a delightful treat, minimizing waste while treating your family to something special.
Perfect for sharing: These cookies are ideal for gatherings, bake sales, or just an afternoon snack—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ready to make your kitchen smell heavenly? Check out my tips for making the perfect Banana Bread Cookies today!
Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• 2 ripe bananas – use very ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter – softened for easy mixing and a rich texture.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies and balances the banana flavor.
• ½ cup brown sugar – adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
• 1 large egg – binds the ingredients for a soft, chewy cookie.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth.
For the Dry Ingredients
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – the base of your cookie that provides structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise, giving them a delightful texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds a warm, cozy aroma, complementing the bananas.
For the Mix-Ins
• ½ cup rolled oats – adds chewiness and hearty texture to the cookies.
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional) – for a melty chocolatey surprise in every bite.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie.
Enjoy these Banana Bread Cookies warm out of the oven for an irresistible treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Banana Bread Cookies won’t stick. This preparation will help you seamlessly transition from mixing to baking, ensuring everything is ready when you are.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars. Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, cream the mixture together until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a delightful texture that will elevate your cookie dough.
Step 3: Incorporate the Bananas
Next, add the mashed ripe bananas to the creamy butter and sugar mixture. Stir well until the bananas are fully incorporated, creating a smooth blend with the other ingredients. The natural sweetness and moisture from the bananas will enhance the flavor and texture of your Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack a large egg into the bowl and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined, which will take about 1-2 minutes. This addition not only binds the ingredients but also enriches the overall taste, making your cookies more delectable.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices. Once thoroughly mixed, you’ll have a perfect blend of dry ingredients ready to complement your wet mixture for the Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Aim to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cookies. The dough should remain somewhat lumpy, indicating the right consistency for your tasty Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 7: Fold in Oats and Mix-Ins
Carefully fold in the rolled oats to add texture, along with any optional chocolate chips or chopped nuts you prefer. This step will personalize your Banana Bread Cookies and enhance their chewiness. The dough will be thick and fragrant, perfect for baking.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is enough space between each scoop to allow the cookies to spread as they bake. This will create individual treats that are perfectly sized to enjoy.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges of the cookies turn lightly golden. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a heavenly aroma, indicating that your Banana Bread Cookies are nearly ready to be enjoyed.
Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After cooling, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies firm up and reach their delicious final texture, making them even more enjoyable.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh for all your snacking needs.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for maximum flavor.
Freezer: Freeze your Banana Bread Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy them whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating: To warm your cookies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Cookies?
Creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere for sharing these delightful treats always calls for a perfect pairing.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the warm, chewy cookies, creating a heavenly dessert experience. The cool creaminess complements the cookies’ sweet, comforting flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy berries and tropical fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies, adding texture and brightness to your spread. This colorful dish will elevate your dessert table beautifully.
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Hot Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or tea enhances the aroma and invites relaxation, making each bite of cookie a moment to savor. The warmth of the beverage harmonizes perfectly with the flavors.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A simple chocolate sauce adds a fun twist, allowing you to dip your cookies for an indulgent treat. This extra layer of chocolate elevates the banana flavor even more!
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream offers a delicious dairy-free option that pairs wonderfully with the rich banana cookies. The subtle coconut flavor marries beautifully with the banana notes.
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Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer banana bread cookies with yogurt and granola for a delightful parfait that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The crunchiness of granola adds texture, complementing the soft cookies fabulously.
Indulge in these pairings that enhance the experience of your Banana Bread Cookies and create unforgettable moments around the table!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies
Perfect Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. The darker the banana, the better your cookies will taste.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined to keep your Banana Bread Cookies soft and chewy.
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it for 15-20 minutes before scooping. This makes handling easier and results in a nice, thick cookie.
Mind Your Oven: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are just lightly golden to prevent overbaking.
Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well—just ensure they're in a freezer-safe container!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your busy days a little sweeter and easier! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also prevents them from spreading too much while baking. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop dough onto a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions as usual. If you prefer to make it even earlier, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. With these tips, you can enjoy fresh, warm Banana Bread Cookies with minimal effort!
Banana Bread Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust these Banana Bread Cookies to suit your palate, from flavor boosts to dietary swaps!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious cookie. Enjoy the same comforting flavors with a friendly twist!
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Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of an egg and swap the butter for coconut oil. The texture may vary slightly but remains just as tasty!
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Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely or replace them with extra chocolate chips for a pure chocolatey treat. Deliciously chewy without any nuts, perfect for little ones with allergies!
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Dairy-Free: Choose a dairy-free butter substitute and dark chocolate chips to make these cookies suitable for a dairy-free diet. You won’t miss the traditional butter one bit!
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or swap in pumpkin spice for a warm, festive flavor that’s delightful any time of year. Your kitchen will smell like autumn!
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and a chewy texture. This fruity addition creates a delightful medley everyone will love!
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Coconut Lover: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair that perfectly complements the banana flavor. Each bite will take you to a sunny beach!
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Peanut Butter Bliss: Swirl in ¼ cup peanut butter into the dough before baking for a rich, nutty taste that pairs beautifully with bananas. It creates an irresistible flavor harmony!
Feel inspired? Try out these variations to make your Banana Bread Cookies truly your own, and if you enjoy a little extra chocolate, consider pairing them with my decadent Dark Chocolate Banana Bread!
Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bananas for Banana Bread Cookies?
Absolutely! The best bananas for this recipe are overripe ones, which have a deep yellow to brown coloration and are soft to the touch. The more brown spots, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Avoid using firm, green bananas as they won’t provide the same rich flavor and moisture.
What’s the best way to store my Banana Bread Cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first allow your cookies to cool completely. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the cookies in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to softened butter that was too warm or not enough flour in the mixture. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. If your dough seems too sticky or wet, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour. Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can also help control spread.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you have nut allergies, it’s best to skip the walnuts or pecans, or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without the allergens. Always double-check labels for chocolate chips as they can contain allergens like dairy, gluten, or nuts.
How long can I keep these cookies in the fridge?
You can store your Banana Bread Cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before eating, as this will help restore their original softness and flavor. Enjoy!
Irresistibly Soft Banana Bread Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add the mashed bananas to the butter and sugar, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats and any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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