Banana Bread Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with the ease of cookies, then you’ve come to the right place! These Banana Bread Cookies are soft, chewy, and simply irresistible. They are perfect for breakfast on a busy morning, a sweet snack in the afternoon, or even as a dessert to share with loved ones after dinner. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a family favorite!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. Just a few ripe bananas and some pantry staples are all you need to create these delicious cookies. Plus, they’re so versatile—you can add your favorite mix-ins for an extra touch of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 22 minutes from start to finish!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these soft and chewy cookies.
• Make-ahead goodness: You can easily bake a batch ahead of time for snacks or gatherings.
• Deliciously versatile: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or your choice of mix-ins to make them your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that the ingredients for these Banana Bread Cookies are simple and wholesome. Most of them you probably already have in your kitchen! Here’s what you need:

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about these Banana Bread Cookies is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add spices: Mix in some nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Go nutty: Swap out the chocolate chips for chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch.
• Mix in dried fruit: Try adding raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet fruity twist.
• Make them healthier: Use whole wheat flour or oats instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier version.

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash those ripe bananas until smooth. Then mix in the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The bananas will add moisture and sweetness while giving that classic banana bread flavor.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies soft and chewy!

Step 5: Fold in Optional Mix-ins

If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to fold in any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. This adds an extra texture and flavor that makes each bite special.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake those beauties for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!

Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now comes the best part—enjoying your freshly baked Banana Bread Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Banana Bread Cookies

Making these Banana Bread Cookies is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your baking game to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies due to gluten development.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Adding chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans can create delightful variations. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch!
• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough seems too sticky after mixing, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before baking. This will make it easier to handle and help the cookies maintain their shape.
• Watch the baking time closely: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies at the 10-minute mark. You want them just set in the center for that perfect chewy texture!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

These Banana Bread Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some fun ideas on how to present and enjoy them.

Garnishes

• Dusting of powdered sugar: A light sprinkle adds a touch of sweetness and an appealing visual contrast.
• Drizzle of nut butter: A swirl of almond or peanut butter on top can enhance flavor and provide extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: Serve alongside a colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like berries, apples, or oranges for a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt parfait: Pair with creamy yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or snack combo.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea complements the soft flavors of banana bread cookies beautifully.
• Milkshake: For a fun twist, blend your favorite milk (dairy or non-dairy) with ice cream for a creamy shake that pairs perfectly with these cookies.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to bake up some warm, delicious Banana Bread Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Banana Bread Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store them for later, ensuring you always have a tasty treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, reheat the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Banana Bread Cookies!

Can I use overripe bananas for Banana Bread Cookies?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they add natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies.

How do I make my Banana Bread Cookies softer?

To ensure your Banana Bread Cookies stay soft, avoid overmixing the batter and consider using more ripe bananas. You can also store them with a slice of bread in the container to maintain their softness.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Banana Bread Cookies recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if desired. For added flavor, try using coconut oil instead of butter.

How long do Banana Bread Cookies last?

If stored properly, these cookies will last up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Banana Bread Cookies as much as I do! They capture all the comforting flavors of banana bread while being fun and easy to prepare. Perfect for any time of day, they’re sure to bring smiles to your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends—happy baking!