As I rummaged through my pantry the other day, I stumbled upon two overripe bananas that were just begging to be transformed into something delightful. Enter my Banana Bread Cookies! This recipe combines the comforting essence of traditional banana bread with the ease of baking cookies—perfect for those busy afternoons when you crave a homemade snack without the fuss. Not only are these cookies quick to whip up, but they also offer a delightful chewy texture, thanks to the rolled oats, and can be customized with chocolate chips or nuts for that added crunch. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll find yourself reaching for another! Ready to turn those bananas into something truly special? Let’s get started!
Why are Banana Bread Cookies so irresistible?
Comforting flavors: These cookies marry the sweet, warm taste of banana bread with the fun of cookies, creating a cozy treat.
Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of baking, you'll satisfy your craving in no time!
Endless customizations: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personal touch.
Perfectly chewy texture: The rolled oats give these cookies that delightful chewiness we all love. You'll be eager to share these with family and friends, or keep them all to yourself!
Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful treat!
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 ripe bananas – These provide natural sweetness and moisture, making your cookies irresistibly soft.
- ½ cup unsalted butter – Softened butter adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – For a touch of sweetness; adjust to taste if you prefer less sugar.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder, giving your cookies structure while keeping them moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor, bringing out the lovely banana essence in your cookies.
For the Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for your cookies; be sure to measure it correctly for the right texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise, giving them that perfect shape.
- ½ teaspoon salt – A little salt balances sweetness and enhances flavor throughout.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with bananas.
For the Mix-Ins
- ½ cup rolled oats – These create a delightful chewy texture, making your cookies even more satisfying.
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional) – For those who enjoy a sweet chocolatey surprise; feel free to mix in your favorite kind!
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Adds a crunchy element; these nuts beautifully complement the soft cookie texture.
Now that you have everything ready, let’s make those amazing Banana Bread Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure that your Banana Bread Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture. While the oven warms up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking when it’s time to bake.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step adds air into the dough, leading to a delightful texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate Mashed Bananas
Next, add the mashed ripe bananas to your creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until fully combined, ensuring that the sweet banana flavor infuses throughout the dough. You'll want the texture to be smooth with no lumps, allowing the bananas to shine in your Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack a large egg into the bowl and pour in the vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binder, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making your cookies even more delectable. Keep mixing until you have a smooth, cohesive dough.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed in your Banana Bread Cookies. The cinnamon will add a warm aroma while baking, complementing the sweetness of the bananas beautifully.
Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Once you see no flour streaks, your dough is ready for the next step, full of the delightful banana goodness.
Step 7: Fold in Add-Ins
Now it's time to fold in the rolled oats, and if you choose, the chocolate chips and chopped nuts. Gently mix these ingredients into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This step adds texture and a little crunch to each of your delicious Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie to allow them to spread while baking. They should look plump and inviting, ready for the oven!
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for lightly golden edges as a visual cue for doneness. The centers may appear slightly soft, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, carefully remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period allows them to firm up, making your Banana Bread Cookies perfectly chewy and deliciously irresistible!
Banana Bread Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
-
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without dairy.
If you're aiming for an allergy-friendly cookie, the seeds offer a satisfying crunch without compromising flavor. -
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep everyone happy.
Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for the right texture, ensuring that these cookies stay chewy and delightful. -
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg for a plant-based version.
Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it gel, and mix it in! -
Spiced Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a fun twist on traditional flavors.
These spices will bring a warm, cozy aroma that's perfect for fall, enhancing the banana goodness beautifully. -
Fruit-Infused: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins instead of chocolate chips for a tart burst of flavor.
This swap adds a lovely chewiness and a pop of color, making each cookie just as delightful to look at as it is to eat! -
Extra Chocolatey: Use brownie mix instead of flour for a richer, fudgier cookie experience.
You’ll enhance the chocolate flavor while keeping that banana sweetness, creating a truly decadent treat! -
Coconut: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flare that complements the banana flavor.
This addition creates a delightful chewy texture and adds a nutty sweetness that transports your taste buds straight to the beach.
Don't forget to browse through some of our other scrumptious recipes, like Banana Bread or Oatmeal Cookies, for even more amazing flavor combinations!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in cookies that are just as delightful when baked. If you prefer, you can scoop the dough into individual balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, bake straight from the freezer; simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you'll enjoy warm, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies
-
Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe with brown spots; this enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of your Banana Bread Cookies.
-
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your ingredients and stop mixing once the flour is just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
-
Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing, which contributes to a fluffier texture.
-
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add other mix-ins like dried fruit or coconut flakes, but avoid using too many to keep the texture balanced.
-
Cool Before Serving: Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack. This helps them firm up and retain their delightful chewiness without becoming crumbly.
What to Serve with Banana Bread Cookies?
Treat your taste buds by crafting a delightful meal that complements these soft, chewy treasures.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, banana flavor, enhancing the cookie experience.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate provides a cozy vibe, making it a comforting pairing for your cookies.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like strawberries and kiwi add a refreshing zing, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Cinnamon Spiced Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee, with hints of cinnamon, complements the cookies’ warm spices, elevating your treat time.
- Nutty Granola Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with crunchy granola and drizzled honey, offering a satisfying texture contrast alongside the cookies.
- Maple Pecan Scones: The nutty flavor and crumbly texture of scones echo the cozy vibe of the cookies, creating a delightful brunch option.
- Chocolate Chip Milkshake: Indulge in a rich milkshake that satisfies both chocolate and banana cravings in one creamy sip.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over each cookie adds an irresistible sweetness and a luxurious touch to your dessert spread.
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 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps preserve freshness while keeping them delicious.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze your cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then microwave for 10-15 seconds, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use for Banana Bread Cookies?
Absolutely! Make sure to use very ripe bananas with dark spots or even fully brown skin. This level of ripeness enhances their natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring your Banana Bread Cookies are incredibly flavorful and soft.
How should I store Banana Bread Cookies?
You can store your Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you're looking to keep them fresh for a bit longer, pop them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week without losing their delightful flavor.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Cookies?
Very much so! To freeze your cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good for up to 3 months! To enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds after thawing.
What if my cookie dough is too dry?
If you find your Banana Bread Cookie dough is too dry, it might be due to too much flour or not enough moisture from the bananas. I recommend adding a little more mashed banana (up to ¼ cup more) or a splash of milk to your dough until it reaches a softer consistency. Just mix gently to combine!
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily make your Banana Bread Cookies nut-free by omitting the optional chopped walnuts or pecans. Additionally, if you choose to add chocolate chips, many brands offer nut-free options, making it possible for everyone to enjoy these delicious cookies!
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Certainly! You can swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute to help maintain the texture and rise of your Banana Bread Cookies. Just keep an eye on the dough consistency, as gluten-free flours can sometimes behave differently!
Deliciously Chewy Banana Bread Cookies You'll Love
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 ripe bananas These provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter Softened butter at room temperature.
- ½ cup granulated sugar Adjust to taste if desired.
- ½ cup brown sugar Packed for depth and flavor.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder for structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor.
For the Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour Base for cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps cookies rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds aromatic flavor.
For the Mix-Ins
- ½ cup rolled oats Creates chewy texture.
- ½ cup chocolate chips Optional for a chocolate twist.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional for added crunch.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the mashed bananas and mix until fully combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until mixed well.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats, and if desired, chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
- Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space to spread.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
