Banana Bread Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana bread is a well-loved classic, but what if you could enjoy the same comforting flavors in a cookie form? These banana bread cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the rich sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or even breakfast, this recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. Read on to learn how to create these delightful treats in your own kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only pantry staples.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Great Use for Overripe Bananas: No more wasted fruit!
- Versatile: Easily customizable with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
Ingredients
To make these banana bread cookies, you will need:
- 1 ripe banana
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar and melted butter to the mashed banana.
- Mix until well combined and smooth.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Shape the Cookies
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Bake the Cookies
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are set.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cookies
Use Overripe Bananas
The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
Experiment with Mix-Ins
Add variety by incorporating:
- Chocolate chips for a richer taste.
- Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor.
Proper Storage
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Banana Bread Cookies
These cookies are not only delicious on their own but can also be enjoyed in various creative ways:
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Sandwich Style: Spread a layer of peanut butter or Nutella between two cookies for a delightful treat.
- Dipped in Chocolate: Dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate and allow them to set for an extra indulgent touch.
- With Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a satisfying snack.
Nutritional Information
While banana bread cookies are a sweet treat, they also offer some nutritional benefits. Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. By moderating the sugar content and incorporating healthy mix-ins like nuts, you can make these cookies a more balanced snack.
Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try
These banana bread cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, delivering all the familiar flavors in a convenient, handheld form. They are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, sharing with friends and family, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Plus, they make a great addition to lunchboxes or potlucks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead of Granulated Sugar?
Absolutely! Brown sugar will add a deeper, caramel-like flavor and a slightly chewier texture to your cookies.
How Can I Make These Cookies Healthier?
- Reduce Sugar: Cut back on the sugar slightly to make them less sweet.
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
- Add Oats: Stir in some rolled oats for a heartier texture and additional nutrients.
Easy Banana Bread Cookies in 30 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These banana bread cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with banana flavor. Quick to make and perfect for a snack or dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Mash banana, then mix with sugar and melted butter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mix gently.
- Scoop dough onto baking sheet, spacing evenly.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for more sweetness and flavor.
- Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut for variety.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for longer storage; thaw before eating.
- Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: banana cookies, banana bread cookies, easy banana dessert, ripe banana recipe, soft cookies, homemade cookies
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of banana bread, you will love these easy-to-make banana bread cookies. With their soft, cake-like texture and naturally sweet banana flavor, they are a treat everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious homemade snack that’s both comforting and satisfying!