There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, and these Chewy Banana Bread Cookies deliver that cozy feeling in every delightful bite. I found myself craving something sweet the other day, and with a few ripe bananas hanging out in my kitchen, the idea struck: why not transform those overripe beauties into a treat that’s both comforting and easy to whip up?
These cookies not only capture the essence of classic banana bread, but they also come together in a snap, making them the perfect solution for when you’re short on time. With the warm hints of cinnamon and the optional melty chocolate chips or crunchy nuts, you can customize these treats to your liking! Whether you’re packing them in lunchboxes or enjoying them as an afternoon pick-me-up, let these Banana Bread Cookies become your new go-to recipe for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping the fast food blues at bay. Grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
Why are Banana Bread Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: The delightful scent of cinnamon and ripe bananas fills your kitchen, setting the mood for comfort.
Quick & easy: This recipe comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for any busy day.
Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins to make these cookies your own.
Perfect snack: Soft, chewy, and deliciously satisfying, they”re great for lunchboxes or a quick afternoon treat.
Guilt-free sweet: Use healthier alternatives like coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter version that still packs flavor!
Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Ripe Bananas – Use 2 medium bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 ½ cups helps create the perfect structure for these Banana Bread Cookies; sift for the best result.
- Granulated Sugar – ½ cup adds sweetness and a nice golden crust; substituting some with brown sugar deepens the flavor.
- Brown Sugar – ½ cup packed brings in moisture and a rich taste thanks to its molasses content.
- Unsalted Butter – ½ cup (1 stick), softened for a tender texture; replace with coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier option.
- Large Egg – 1 egg binds everything together while adding moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature.
- Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon acts as a leavening agent, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon enhances the cookies’ rise and prevents them from turning dense.
- Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon offers warm, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon balances sweetness and enriches flavor.
Optional Mix-Ins
- Chocolate Chips or Nuts – Add up to 1 cup of ingredients like chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and flavor diversity.
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect cookie release.
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Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until they’re smooth but retain a slightly chunky texture; aim for about 1 cup of mashed banana to ensure the perfect sweetness and moisture.
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Cream the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar in another bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes and create a delightful base for your cookies.
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Beat in the egg and mashed bananas to the creamed mixture. Make sure to mix until just combined; we want to keep our cookies soft and chewy!
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
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Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually, mixing until everything is just combined. If you’re adding optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them in at this stage.
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Spoon tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough onto the lined baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart for even baking.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking!
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Cool the cookies on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. This will help them maintain their lovely shape and texture.
Optional: Enjoy these cookies warm for a comforting snack.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and moist.
Refrigerator: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week; however, they may lose some of their chewy texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag after they cool completely. They can last up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; they will be just like fresh-baked cookies!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Cookies?
Elevate your snacking experience by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary sides that enhance their sweet, comforting flavors.
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Cold Milk: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of cookies. The coolness of the milk complements the chewy, warm texture perfectly.
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Hot Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee enhance the cinnamon notes in the cookies. Enjoy this duo in the morning or afternoon for a warm pick-me-up.
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Fruity Yogurt Parfait: Layer with fresh fruits and granola for a refreshing contrast. The tartness of yogurt adds a creamy element that harmonizes beautifully with the cookies.
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Creamy Ice Cream: Vanilla or banana-flavored ice cream offers a delightful contrast. This indulgence turns your cookies into a comforting dessert that’s sure to impress.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A fun, indulgent treat that balances the cookies’ sweetness. The creamy texture makes every bite an extra special experience.
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Chai Tea: The spices in chai resonate with the flavors of cinnamon in the cookies, creating a cozy, aromatic pairing that warms the soul.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Serve a mix of berries, sliced bananas, or apples for a refreshing touch. This brightens the meal with vibrant colors and tart flavors.
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Nutty Granola Bars: For those who want a crunch, pair with these homemade bars. They bring in different textures and flavors that complement the cookies.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cookies
- Use Ripe Bananas: Opt for bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture; avoid overly black bananas to prevent mushy cookies.
- Accurate Measurements: Ensure you measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling off with a knife; this prevents dense cookies due to excess flour.
- Mind Your Mixing: Mix the dough until just combined; overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.
- Chill if Needed: If your cookie dough requires chilling, don’t skip this step to help control spreading while baking and maintain a perfect shape.
- Bake to Perfection: Remember that oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cookies a couple of minutes before the recommended bake time for optimal results.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Banana Bread Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can mash the ripe bananas and mix the dry ingredients together up to 24 hours in advance; this helps the flavors develop beautifully while saving you time on busy days. Just store the banana mash in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine your prepared ingredients and proceed with the recipe as written—scoop, bake, and enjoy! For maximum quality, ensure that the butter is softened before creaming it with sugars, as this will keep your cookies soft and chewy, just like fresh-baked cookies should be!
Banana Bread Cookies Variations
Invite your creativity to shine by customizing these Banana Bread Cookies with delightful twists and swaps that will suit every taste!
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and increased fiber.
- Coconut Oil: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option that adds a hint of tropical sweetness.
- Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of butter for a lighter version, reducing calories while maintaining moisture.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer taste, balancing sweetness with a bittersweet chocolatey kick.
- Dried Fruit: Toss in a mix of dried cranberries or raisins for added chewiness and a fruity burst of flavor. They complement the banana beautifully!
- Nuts Galore: Enhance the crunch factor by adding chopped walnuts or pecans, providing a delightful texture that contrasts with the soft cookies.
- Spice it Up: Boost the warmth by incorporating a dash of nutmeg or ginger, giving these cookies a cozy, spiced aroma that elevates the classic recipe.
- Add Zest: Brighten up the flavors by incorporating the zest of an orange or lemon, adding a fresh twist that complements the sweetness of the bananas.
Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing bananas for your Banana Bread Cookies, look for ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. They should be soft but not overly black, as this indicates they are at their sweetest and perfect for mashing.
How should I store my Banana Bread Cookies?
To maintain their delightful moisture, store your Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for about a week, although they may lose some of their chewiness.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Cookies for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious cookies! Once they’ve completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too thick or too thin?
If your dough is too thick, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to achieve your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, gently fold in a bit more flour—start with a tablespoon at a time, as you don’t want to overdo it. Remember, mixing until just combined promotes that perfect chewy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
Very much so! This recipe is versatile. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can easily substitute the butter with coconut oil or applesauce. For those with nut allergies, skip the optional nuts, or consider adding seeds instead for crunch. Always ensure that your other ingredients are safe as per your dietary restrictions.
Irresistible Banana Bread Cookies for Easy Snack Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until they’re smooth but retain a slightly chunky texture.
- Cream the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and mashed bananas to the creamed mixture until just combined.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough onto the lined baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
- Cool the cookies on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
