The Ultimate Banana Bread Cookies Recipe (So Easy & Delicious!)

Have you ever wondered how to transform the classic comfort of banana bread into a delightful, portable treat? Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that captures all the warmth and flavor of homemade banana bread. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to use up those ripe bananas, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the world of banana bread cookies—a recipe that’s not only simple to make but also packed with deliciousness. Get ready to elevate your baking game with this banana bread cookies recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients List

Key Components

1. Ripe Bananas: 2 medium bananas, mashed
2. Flour: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
3. Sugar: ½ cup granulated sugar
4. Brown Sugar: ¼ cup packed brown sugar
5. Butter: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
6. Egg: 1 large egg
7. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
8. Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon
9. Salt: ¼ teaspoon
10. Chocolate Chips: ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
11. Walnuts: ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Vegan Option: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Sugar Alternatives: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup for a healthier option.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to add dried fruits, other types of nuts, or even a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Timing

Preparation, Cooking, and Total Time

• Preparation Time: PT10M
• Cooking Time: PT12M
• Total Time: PT22M

This banana bread cookies recipe takes just over 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and efficient baking project. Compared to traditional banana bread, which can take up to an hour to bake, these cookies offer a speedy alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

1. Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Prepare the Bananas

2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Make sure to use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

3. Add Butter and Sugars: Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the mashed bananas. Mix well until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

Add the Egg and Vanilla

4. Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Crack the egg into the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix until the egg is fully incorporated into the batter.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

5. Add Flour, Baking Soda, and Salt: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

6. Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts: If using, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. These add-ins will give your cookies extra texture and flavor.

Scoop and Bake

7. Scoop the Dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.

Cool and Enjoy

9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve: Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread cookies!

Nutritional Information

Comprehensive Nutritional Details

• Calories: Approximately 150 calories per cookie
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 100mg

These nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. For the most accurate information, consider using a nutritional calculator.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Modifications for Enhanced Nutritional Benefits

1. Whole Wheat Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
2. Reduced Sugar: Cut back on the granulated sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
3. Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a healthier option with less sugar and more antioxidants.
4. Add-Ins: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and nutrients.
5. Coconut Oil: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a healthier fat option.

Serving Suggestions

Creative and Appealing Serving Ideas

1. Warm and Gooey: Serve the cookies warm, straight from the oven, for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
2. With a Glass of Milk: Pair them with a cold glass of milk for a classic and comforting snack.
3. Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
4. Breakfast On-the-Go: Enjoy a cookie with your morning coffee for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
5. Gift Idea: Package them in a cute tin or box to give as a homemade gift to friends and family.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Typical Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Overmixing the Batter: Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Underbaking: Ensure the cookies are baked long enough. They should be golden brown around the edges and set in the middle.
3. Inaccurate Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
4. Not Using Ripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are overripe for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
5. Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Practical Advice on Storing Leftovers

1. Room Temperature: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. Dough Prep: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Bake as needed for fresh cookies.
4. Labeling: Always label and date your stored cookies to keep track of freshness.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Banana Bread Cookies Recipe is a game-changer when it comes to quick and delicious treats. With its perfect blend of ripe bananas, warm spices, and melty chocolate chips, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different add-ins and substitutions to make it your own. Enjoy the process of creating and savoring these delightful cookies!

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.

1. What if I don’t have brown sugar?

• You can use all granulated sugar, but the cookies might have a slightly different texture and flavor.

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

• Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.

1. How can I make these cookies vegan?

• Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to replace the butter and egg.

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

• Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

1. What can I serve with these cookies?

• These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a glass of milk, a scoop of ice cream, or a cup of coffee.

Enjoy creating and savoring your Ultimate Banana Bread Cookies Recipe!