Indulging in the delightful world of baking, you may find yourself enchanted by the warm and comforting aroma of banana bread cookies wafting through your kitchen. These treats marry the beloved flavors of classic banana bread with the enticingly chewy texture of cookies, creating something truly special. As you embrace those overripe bananas often leftover on your countertop, transforming them into cookies not only minimizes waste but also brings a sense of joy and accomplishment into your baking adventures.
Why We Love This Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
There’s something truly nostalgic about banana bread cookies that appeals to everyone, from the youngest family members to the most discerning palates. One major reason you might love these cookies is their versatility. Unlike traditional banana bread that often requires a long baking time, banana bread cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for a spontaneous baking session when cravings strike. The combination of mashed bananas, rich butter, and sweet brown sugar results in a treat that is incredibly moist and satisfying. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dessert, they offer a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, the optional add-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts allow you to customize these cookies to suit your preferences, ensuring that every batch is uniquely yours.
Ingredients about Banana Bread Cookies
To whip up a batch of these scrumptious banana bread cookies, you will need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 medium overripe bananas (about 1 cup, mashed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies Directions
Creating your banana bread cookies is a simple process that results in delicious treats, perfect for any occasion. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking.
Next, mash the two medium-sized overripe bananas in a bowl until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be, so don’t shy away from those brown-speckled versions. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar until the combination is light and fluffy, which will take about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the mix, providing a delightful texture for your cookies.
Once your butter and sugar are well combined, add a large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing well to ensure everything is integrated. The mashed bananas will follow, so fold them in gently until just combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and, if desired, the optional cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and ensures a uniform texture in your cookies.
Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until you see that they are just blended. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it gentle. If you’re adding chocolate chips or chopped walnuts, fold them in at this stage, allowing for a wonderful texture and flavor contrast in each bite.
Next, scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, using about 2 tablespoons per cookie. Place the scoops approximately 2 inches apart to give them room to spread during baking. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden and the tops look set.
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step lets them firm up a bit, making it easier to move them without falling apart.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies
When it comes to serving your banana bread cookies, the possibilities are nearly endless. They can be enjoyed warm from the oven, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat. For a sweet snack, consider placing a few on a plate and dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or even drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the tops for an extra special touch.
If you’re hosting a gathering, these cookies make a wonderful addition to a dessert table or cookie platter. Pair them with other baked goods for a delightful variety that your guests will love. You might even consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a fun and indulgent dessert that everyone will rave about. Don’t forget, they can also be packed in lunchboxes or enjoyed on the go, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
Expert Tips: Banana Bread Cookies
To help you achieve the best possible banana bread cookies, here are some expert tips to consider. First, always choose overripe bananas for your recipe. They should have plenty of brown spots, which indicates that they are super sweet and will provide the best flavor for your cookies.
When creaming the butter and sugar, don’t rush the process. Spend a few extra minutes mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy; this helps incorporate air, contributing to a better texture. If you prefer softer cookies, consider baking them for a shorter time, checking the oven a minute or two early.
If you want to experiment with flavors, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of nutmeg or a few chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Be cautious not to overload your dough, as too many add-ins can hinder the cohesion of the cookie.
For dough that’s easier to scoop and bake, try chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before baking. This will make your cookies thicker and chewier. Lastly, always trust your instincts with your oven; baking times may vary slightly due to different oven models, so keep an eye on your treats as they bake.
How to Store Banana Bread Cookies
Storing your banana bread cookies properly will help keep them fresh and delicious for longer. To store them, first allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial; otherwise, they may become soggy if stored while warm.
Once cooled, you can place the cookies in an airtight container. They’re best stored at room temperature and should stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you anticipate not eating them all within that time frame, consider freezing the cookies. To do this, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Variation of Banana Bread Cookies
Don’t hesitate to get creative and try out different variations of banana bread cookies! You can switch up the flavors and textures by experimenting with various add-ins. For example, you could use white chocolate chips instead of standard chocolate to bring a sweeter touch to your cookies. Alternatively, consider swapping the chocolate chips for dried fruit, such as raisins, cranberries, or even coconut flakes to lend a chewy element.
If you’re looking for nutty flavors, pistachios or pecans can add a great taste and texture. If you enjoy spices, a bit of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile even further. For a double banana punch, you might even incorporate banana-flavored chips.
Furthermore, if you want a gluten-free option, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly based on your chosen flour.
FAQ
What are banana bread cookies?
Banana bread cookies are delightful cookies that incorporate the flavors and ingredients of traditional banana bread, including mashed bananas, butter, and brown sugar. They are chewy and delicious, making them a perfect treat.
How long do banana bread cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, banana bread cookies will typically last about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make banana bread cookies with frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing them for your cookie dough.
Can I use other types of sugar in my banana bread cookies?
Absolutely! While brown sugar provides moisture and sweetness, you can also use granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or even maple syrup. Just keep in mind that each sugar has a slightly different effect on flavor and texture.
What can I add to banana bread cookies?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts like walnuts or pecans, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Banana Bread Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium overripe bananas (about 1 cup, mashed) The riper, the better for sweetness
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- ¾ cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts Optional, for added texture and flavor
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon Optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash the overripe bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the mashed bananas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just blended.
- Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts.
Baking
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet using about 2 tablespoons per cookie, placing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the tops look set.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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