Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies

If you’re craving a delightful treat that combines the best of two worlds, you’ve got to try these Banana Bread Cookies. Soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, these cookies capture the essence of classic banana bread in a fun, hand-held form. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply want a quick snack, Banana Bread Cookies are an easy way to bring warmth and sweetness to your day, making every bite a little celebration of comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these Banana Bread Cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
  • Moist and soft texture: Thanks to ripe bananas and a touch of oil, these cookies stay tender and chewy every time.
  • Versatile and customizable: You can easily tweak the add-ins to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing the classic flavor.
  • Great for any occasion: Whether as a quick snack, after-school treat, or party favorite, these cookies bring joy to any moment.
  • Long-lasting flavor: They maintain moisture and don’t dry out quickly, so they’re perfect for making ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Although this Banana Bread Cookies recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic banana bread flavor and perfect cookie texture you love.

  • Ripe bananas: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and moisture for that soft texture.
  • All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the cookies while keeping them tender.
  • Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and chewy texture.
  • Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become light.
  • Cinnamon: Introduces warm, cozy spice that complements the banana perfectly.
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor complexity without overpowering.
  • Butter or oil: Contributes richness and moistness.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds stability to the dough.
  • Optional add-ins: Chopped nuts or chocolate chips add texture and extra bursts of flavor.

Variations for Banana Bread Cookies

This recipe is a fantastic canvas for creativity. Whether you want to mix up the flavors, keep it vegan, or add unique textures, experimenting is easy and rewarding.

  • Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs well with banana’s softness.
  • Chocolate lover’s version: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks for a sweet surprise in every bite.
  • Gluten-free adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking.
  • Vegan swap: Use flax eggs and coconut oil instead of traditional eggs and butter for a plant-based option.
  • Spice it up: Add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a more complex, warm flavor profile.
Easy Homemade Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the bananas and wet ingredients

Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture. Then, add softened butter (or oil), brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spice.

Step 3: Mix wet and dry ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Be careful not to overmix; stir just until the batter comes together and no large pockets of flour remain.

Step 4: Add optional mix-ins

If you’re including nuts, chocolate chips, or other add-ins, fold them into the dough now to evenly distribute.

Step 5: Scoop and bake

Scoop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Leave enough space between cookies to allow for spreading. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool and enjoy

Once baked, let the Banana Bread Cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set with a perfect tender bite.

Pro Tips for Making Banana Bread Cookies

  • Use very ripe bananas: For maximum flavor and natural sweetness, choose bananas with plenty of brown spots.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: Overworking can develop gluten, resulting in tougher cookies.
  • Chill the dough if needed: If the dough feels too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes helps cookies keep their shape during baking.
  • Measure flour carefully: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly to avoid dense cookies.
  • Watch baking time closely: Remove cookies as soon as the edges turn golden to keep them soft inside.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate immediately elevates the look and taste of Banana Bread Cookies, making them feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of chai tea, or even a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt for a balanced and satisfying treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Banana Bread Cookies stacked with sliced fresh bananas and a spread of almond butter as a unique breakfast or snack platter that’s both gorgeous and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Banana Bread Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature; they will stay soft and tasty for up to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to save them for later, freeze cookies individually on a tray, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or briefly in a low oven until soft and fragrant.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas that are black?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas with black spots are perfect for this recipe since they are sweeter and mash easily, enhancing the flavor of your Banana Bread Cookies.

Are Banana Bread Cookies gluten-free?

The basic recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with gluten-free blends designed for baking without altering the texture much.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, by replacing the egg with a flax or chia egg and using plant-based butter or oil, you can easily make vegan Banana Bread Cookies.

How long do Banana Bread Cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies typically stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips adds wonderful texture and flavor, making the cookies even more irresistible.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about a simple treat that feels like home, and these Banana Bread Cookies deliver just that—easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Give this recipe a try and let the cozy aroma and sweet taste bring a little sunshine to your day!

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Banana Bread Cookies

These Banana Bread Cookies are a soft, flavorful twist on classic banana bread, featuring a moist and tender texture with warm cinnamon spice. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, they are perfect for snacks, parties, or make-ahead treats that stay fresh and delicious. Customize with nuts or chocolate chips, and enjoy a comforting hand-held dessert ideal for all occasions.

  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or 1/4 cup oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking blend)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bananas and wet ingredients: Mash the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth but still slightly chunky. Add softened butter (or oil), brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined and creamy.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
  3. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture until just combined, ensuring no large pockets of flour remain but avoiding overmixing.
  4. Add optional mix-ins: Fold in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other desired add-ins evenly into the dough.
  5. Scoop and bake: Spoon cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, spacing them to allow spreading. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
  6. Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to set, ensuring a tender bite.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough cookies.
  • If dough is too soft, chill for 30 minutes to help cookies hold shape during baking.
  • Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling off to prevent dense cookies.
  • Watch baking time closely and remove cookies once edges are golden to keep them soft inside.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: banana bread cookies, soft cookies, easy banana recipe, gluten free cookies, vegan banana cookies, moist cookies, cinnamon banana cookies, snack recipe, banana treats

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