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There’s a certain magic that happens in the kitchen when ripe bananas come to the rescue, and today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite creation: Banana Bread Cookies. Picture this: the warm aroma of cinnamon drifting through the air as you bite into a soft, chewy cookie that combines all the comforts of traditional banana bread in a quick, grab-and-go form.

These cookies are more than just delicious; they’re versatile too! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic chocolate chip addition, a nutty twist with walnuts, or a vegan and gluten-free option, this recipe has you covered. I stumbled upon this delightful idea on a particularly busy day when I craved something homemade yet easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform overripe bananas into a scrumptious batch of cookies that are sure to please everyone at your table. Let’s dive in and enjoy the delightful world of Banana Bread Cookies!

Why Will You Love Banana Bread Cookies?

Irresistible Comfort: These cookies beautifully blend the nostalgic flavors of banana bread into a delightful, chewy treat that satisfies any sweet tooth.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a fresh batch in no time—perfect for busy days or spontaneous cravings.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer chocolate chips, nuts, or want to go vegan and gluten-free, these cookies can easily be customized to suit your taste.

Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings or family snacks, everyone will love these cookies, and they make a great addition to lunchboxes.

Healthier Indulgence: Packed with ripe bananas, these treats offer sweetness along with fiber and essential nutrients, making every bite feel a little less indulgent!

Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients

For the Base
• Mashed Ripe Bananas – Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower-calorie version.
• Egg – Binds ingredients together; swap for a flaxseed or chia egg to make vegan Banana Bread Cookies.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.

For the Dry Ingredients
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to cookies; for gluten-free, substitute with a quality gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for rise; ensure it’s fresh for effective results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; a small amount is crucial for flavor enhancement.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm spice notes; increase for a more pronounced cinnamon flavor.

Optional Add-Ins
• Walnuts or Chocolate Chips – Customize with your favorite nuts or chocolate for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving your cookies a lovely texture.
Combine the egg and vanilla extract with the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until everything is fully incorporated. This will help your cookies stay moist and flavorful.
Stir in the mashed bananas until the mixture is well combined. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be!
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. This will ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
If desired, add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips and gently fold them into the dough for extra flavor and texture.
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for them to spread while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden but the centers still look soft. This will give you the perfect chewy cookie texture.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring the cookies to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. This step ensures they set properly.

Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Bread Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and then covering the bowl tightly in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps the cookies maintain their lovely texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and bake as directed. To keep the cookies fresh for longer, store any baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy the convenience of homemade treats, just as delicious as fresh-baked!

What to Serve with Banana Bread Cookies?

Indulging in soft, chewy cookies leads to cravings for delightful accompaniments that elevate your experience.

Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of thick yogurt enhances the sweetness and adds a refreshing tang to balance the flavors.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a burst of freshness, creating a beautiful contrast to the rich sweetness of the cookies.
Chocolate Milk: A classic pairing! The rich, chocolaty drink will bring out all the comforting flavors of banana bread in each bite.
Cup of Tea: A warm mug of herbal tea, such as chamomile or chai, adds a soothing touch that complements the cookies’ warm spices.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that’s as nostalgic as the cookies themselves.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar on top offers an extra layer of warmth and sweetness, making each bite even more delightful.

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies

Choose Overripe Bananas: The best flavor comes from very ripe bananas with brown spots; the more ripe, the sweeter and moister your cookies will be.
Watch Your Mixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.
Consider Chilling Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes. This can enhance the flavor and make the dough easier to handle.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center to ensure a chewy bite.
Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to customize your Banana Bread Cookies! Try nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for different flavors and textures.

Banana Bread Cookies Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to these delightful cookies for a more personalized treat!

Chocolate Chip: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a melty, decadent experience that enhances the sweetness.
Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to bring a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch in every bite.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg to keep it plant-based without sacrificing taste.
Gluten-Free: Use a quality gluten-free flour blend to create cookies that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Breakfast Cookies: Fold in rolled oats, chia seeds, or flax seeds to transform these cookies into a nourishing breakfast option full of energy.
Spiced: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the dough for an aromatic twist that complements the warm banana flavor beautifully.
Coconut Lift: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair, adding both chewiness and an extra layer of flavor.
Fruity Surprise: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a sweet and chewy contrast that makes each bite exciting.

Storage Tips for Banana Bread Cookies

Room Temperature: Allow your cookies to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer storage, you can keep these Banana Bread Cookies in the fridge, where they will last for about 2 weeks. Just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: If you want to store your cookies for an extended period, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat frozen cookies in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for Banana Bread Cookies?
Absolutely! The best bananas for this recipe are very ripe ones, ideally with some brown spots. The more overripe they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. If you find some bananas that are starting to turn dark, don’t toss them — they’re perfect for this!

How should I store my Banana Bread Cookies?
Once your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about 2 weeks in a sealed container, which helps maintain their chewy texture.

Can I freeze Banana Bread Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a couple of hours until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply reheat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my cookies are too dry or crumbly?
If your Banana Bread Cookies turn out dry or crumbly, it might be because the dough was overmixed or there was too much flour. To avoid this, mix the ingredients just until combined and measure flour accurately. If they’re already baked, try adding a small drizzle of melted butter or serving them with a scoop of ice cream to bring back some moisture!

Are there any dietary considerations for Banana Bread Cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re making these cookies for someone with allergies, substitutes are easy. For a vegan version, use coconut oil in place of butter and a flaxseed egg instead of an egg. For gluten-free options, choose a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it’s designed for baking. Just check the labels for allergens, especially if you add nuts or chocolate.

Can I customize my Banana Bread Cookies with other ingredients?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with various mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. The recipe is quite versatile, allowing you to create your perfect combination. Just make sure to adjust the quantities accordingly and enjoy getting creative in your kitchen!