Banana Bread Cookies

Soft, chewy Banana Bread Cookies bring the delightful taste of banana bread into an easy-to-make cookie form. These cookies are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert and can be enjoyed by everyone. Their standout qualities come from using ripe bananas, which add natural sweetness and moisture, making these cookies irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of cookies in no time.
• Versatile options: Customize your cookies with chocolate chips, nuts, or leave them plain — the choice is yours!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a sweet treat for guests, these cookies fit right in.
• Healthy twist: Packed with ripe bananas, these cookies offer a nutritious alternative to traditional sweets.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze some for later — they thaw beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Banana Bread Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure that your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having a variety of sizes is crucial for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: This tool helps mix wet ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking tray allows for even baking and prevents warping in the oven.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create these delectable cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

This blend will create the base for your cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash:
* 2 ripe bananas
Then mix in:
* 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can affect the texture of your cookies.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

Fold in any optional mix-ins like:
* Chocolate chips
* Chopped walnuts or pecans

This step adds extra flavor and texture to your cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie for spreading while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown while the centers remain soft.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Banana Bread Cookies!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for various occasions.

For Breakfast

• Pair with yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of yogurt for a satisfying morning meal.
• Enjoy with coffee or tea: These cookies complement your favorite morning beverage perfectly.

As a Snack

• Pack in lunch boxes: They make a great addition to lunch, providing a sweet boost during the day.
• Serve with fruit slices: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.

For Dessert

• Top with ice cream: Warm cookies topped with vanilla ice cream create an irresistible dessert.
• Drizzle with honey: A light drizzle enhances the sweetness and adds extra flavor.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Cookies

To ensure your Banana Bread Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
• Don’t over-mix: Stir just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking; they should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Cool properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies are versatile and can be paired with various side dishes for an even more enjoyable experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Nut Butter Spread – Almond or peanut butter provides a protein-rich dip that complements the cookie’s flavor.
3. Granola Parfait – Layered yogurt and granola make a delicious, crunchy side that pairs well with soft cookies.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Smoothie Bowl – A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds makes for a healthy complement to these treats.
6. Herbal Tea Infusion – A soothing cup of herbal tea can enhance the cozy feel of enjoying these banana bread cookies together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Banana Bread Cookies can be simple, but many home bakers make common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Boldly neglecting ripe bananas: Using unripe bananas will result in less sweetness and flavor. Ensure your bananas are well-ripened and mash them thoroughly for the best results.
• Boldly overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep these cookies soft and chewy.
• Boldly ignoring oven calibration: Each oven behaves differently. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, which is crucial for perfect cookies.
• Boldly skipping cooling times: Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet prevents them from becoming too soft and helps maintain their shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Banana Bread Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating Banana Bread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a hot skillet with a lid for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Banana Bread Cookies.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser cookies. Consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for better texture.

What can I add to my Banana Bread Cookies?

You can customize your cookies with chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Get creative with mix-ins that you enjoy!

How do I know when my Banana Bread Cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown, and the centers should be set but still soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Are these Banana Bread Cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well, making them perfect for meal prepping or saving for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Banana Bread Cookies offer the delightful flavors of banana bread in a convenient cookie form. They are perfect as breakfast treats, snacks, or desserts. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added delight!