Banana Bread Cookies Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
Introduction
Banana bread is a beloved classic, known for its moist texture and rich banana flavor. But what if you could enjoy the same delicious taste in a convenient, bite-sized form? Enter Banana Bread Cookies—soft, chewy, and packed with all the comforting flavors of traditional banana bread. These cookies are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether you love banana bread or just want to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Banana Bread Cookies
Soft & Chewy: These cookies have a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
Great Use for Ripe Bananas: If you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, this is the perfect way to use them.
Versatile: You can customize them by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or spices.
Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids to eat bananas without them even realizing it!
Ingredients
To make these delicious Banana Bread Cookies, you will need:
1 ripe banana
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup melted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins:
½ teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor
½ teaspoon cinnamon for warmth and spice
¼ cup chocolate chips for a sweet twist
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until it becomes smooth and creamy. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the granulated sugar and melted butter to the mashed banana. Stir well until everything is fully combined. If you’re using vanilla extract, mix it in at this stage.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. If you’re adding cinnamon, include it here as well.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
Step 6: Add Your Extras
If you’re using chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them into the batter.
Step 7: Scoop and Shape
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be soft in the center but set on the edges.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or store them for later!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cookies
1. Use Overripe Bananas
The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
2. Don’t Overmix
Mixing too much can develop the gluten in the flour, making your cookies tough instead of soft and tender.
3. Experiment with Add-Ins
Try adding coconut flakes, raisins, or even peanut butter chips for a unique flavor twist.
4. Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly. If you want a deeper flavor, try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
5. Make Them Gluten-Free
Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storage and Freezing
Storing at Room Temperature
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing Instructions
These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Fun Ways to Serve Banana Bread Cookies
With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: The perfect pairing for a morning or afternoon treat.
Drizzled with Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an extra indulgence.
Sandwiched with Nut Butter: Spread peanut butter or almond butter between two cookies for a delicious cookie sandwich.
Topped with Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a dessert that wows.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Cookies are a delicious, easy-to-make treat that combines the best of banana bread and cookies in one bite-sized package. They’re soft, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, packed in a lunchbox, or stored for a quick snack, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how you like it! 🍌🍪 Happy baking!