The aroma of warm cookies wafting through the kitchen is like a hug for the senses. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Soft & Chewy Banana Bread Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic comfort of banana bread. With just a few ripe bananas and some pantry staples, this recipe offers the perfect solution for wholesome homemade treats—whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a sweet dessert. What’s even better is that these cookies are fully customizable, so you can add in chocolate chips, nuts, or spices to suit your taste. Plus, they’re vegetarian and have gluten-free options, making them a fun treat for everyone at your table. Are you ready to bake your new favorite cookie?
Why Make Banana Bread Cookies?
Unique Twist: These Banana Bread Cookies blend the comforting taste of traditional banana bread into a cookie form, perfect for any occasion.
Customizable Options: They’re versatile enough to include your favorite mix-ins—think chocolate chips, nuts, or even oatmeal for an extra hearty bite.
Quick & Easy: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies for breakfast or snacks.
Diet-Friendly: Easily make them gluten-free or vegan by swapping a few ingredients, so everyone can enjoy this sweet treat.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for parties or family gatherings, they have a way of disappearing quickly, leaving everyone craving more! Plus, don’t forget to check out my other favorites like Pumpkin Banana Bread for more banana-inspired delights.
Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Ripe Bananas – These naturally sweet ingredients are key for moisture; choose heavily speckled or blackened ones for the best flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Soda – Essential for leavening, ensuring a wonderfully soft texture.
• Baking Powder – Use this to give the cookies extra rise and fluffiness.
• Salt – A pinch enhances the flavor, bringing out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the cookies; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; you can reduce the amount for a healthier touch.
• Brown Sugar – Introduces a deep, caramel-like sweetness; optional but recommended for added moisture.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients; a flax egg can be used for a vegan substitution.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile; don’t skip this ingredient for the best result.
Optional Mix-Ins
• Chocolate Chips – Swap these in for a delightful, extra-rich flavor.
• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans – Add for a satisfying crunch and nutty undertone.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves) – Incorporate for an aromatic, warming touch to the cookies.
• Rolled Oats – Mix in for heartiness and additional fiber, enhancing both nutrition and texture.
These Banana Bread Cookies embody warm, comforting flavors while being fully customizable to satisfy every sweet craving!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Banana Bread Cookies don’t stick. This is a crucial step for easy removal and cleanup later. Make sure you’re ready to go, as these cookies will come together quickly.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, add your ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth, creating a creamy base for your cookies. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in melted unsalted butter, blending until the mixture is well combined and slightly shiny. The aroma of ripe bananas will fill your kitchen—it’s comforting!
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract into the banana-butter mixture. Use a whisk or spatula to blend these ingredients thoroughly until everything is incorporated and smooth, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The combination of flavors will deepen as you mix, making your dough deliciously tempting.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the leavening agents and prevent clumping. After whisking for a minute or two, the mixture should be light and fluffy, ready to be combined with your wet ingredients for the Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, gently bringing them together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky and thick, with visible banana pieces adding texture. Your irresistibly fresh banana aroma will continue to fill the air!
Step 6: Add Mix-Ins
Now is the time to customize your Banana Bread Cookies! Gently fold in any desired mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Be creative! This not only enhances flavor but also adds delightful variations to your cookies. Make sure every scoop of dough has a bit of goodness mixed in.
Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Flatten them slightly with the back of your spoon to encourage even baking. This ensures that your cookies will rise beautifully, resulting in those signature soft and chewy Banana Bread Cookies.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until your cookies turn a lovely golden color and look puffy and set. The edges should be firm while the centers will remain soft. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.
Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Once your Banana Bread Cookies are baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This step allows them to firm up slightly before moving. After they’ve cooled a bit, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring you don’t disturb their chewy texture. Your delightful treat is nearly ready to enjoy!
What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Banana Bread Cookies
Indulge in a delightful spread that elevates your homemade cookies into a memorable feast for the senses.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful array of berries and bananas brightens up the palate, complementing the sweetness of the cookies.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer with yogurt and granola for a refreshing contrast. The creamy tang enhances the warm banana flavors perfectly.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Rich and decadent, this drink adds a fun, nostalgic touch that pairs beautifully with soft cookies and is loved by all ages.
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Warm Coffee: A classic pairing, the rich flavors of coffee balance out the sweet notes in the cookies, making each bite exceptional.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of this airy, sweet cream adds a tropical flair that wonderfully enhances the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the cookies’ flavors, bringing a cozy, aromatic element to your snack time.
Try out these pairings to create a deliciously sweet experience that will leave your family and friends craving more!
Banana Bread Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize your Banana Bread Cookies with these fun and tasty twists that will make your baking experience even more enjoyable!
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Chocolate Chips: Swap in mini chocolate chips for a rich, gooey sweetness that elevates each bite. The combination of banana and chocolate is irresistible!
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Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. These nuts bring texture and a lovely nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the softness of the cookie.
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Spices: Incorporate warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for an aromatic punch. Just a pinch can transform vanilla-centric cookies into an autumn-inspired delight.
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Rolled Oats: Mix in rolled oats for heartiness and added fiber, giving the cookies a wholesome, chewy texture. This twist not only flavors the cookies but boosts their nutrition.
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Nut Butter: Stir in a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter for a subtle creaminess. This renders your cookies even more indulgent—think peanut butter or almond butter.
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Dried Fruit: Toss in some dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries, for a tangy pop of sweetness that complements the banana nicely. It’s a little surprise with every bite!
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Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a refreshing citrus twist. The zesty hint will brighten the overall flavor profile of your cookies.
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Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg to keep these cookies vegan-friendly. This simple swap ensures everyone can join in on the fun, just like in my tasty Pumpkin Banana Bread recipe!
These variations aren’t just delicious but also offer endless possibilities, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies
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Use Very Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are heavily speckled or blackened to ensure maximum sweetness and moisture in your Banana Bread Cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy result.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, but ensure they are evenly distributed to enhance flavor and texture without overpowering the cookie.
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Adjust Baking Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your cookies. They should be golden brown yet puffy in the center when done baking.
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Storage Matters: For the best texture, store your Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer enjoyment.
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer-lasting storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore softness, reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Perfect for enjoying that fresh-baked taste anytime!
Keep It Sealed: Always ensure the container is airtight to prevent cookies from drying out and losing their delightful flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it, ensuring maximum freshness. To do this, simply follow the recipe up to Step 7, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge. This method keeps the flavors rich and delightful. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough directly onto the baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. Trust me, they’ll turn out just as delicious, giving you freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!
Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely, for the best flavor and sweetness, use heavily speckled or blackened ripe bananas. These super ripe bananas release their natural sugars, making your Banana Bread Cookies incredibly moist and flavorful!
How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain their delightful softness, store your Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them following the next question’s instructions.
Can I freeze the Banana Bread Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can! First, place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just reheat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore its fresh-baked goodness.
What can I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If your dough is dry, that could be due to a few factors such as overly dry bananas or too much flour. You can easily remedy this by adding a splash of milk or a bit more melted butter to the mixture. For future batches, make sure your bananas are very ripe, and measure your flour correctly by spooning it into your cup and leveling it off with a knife.
Are there any allergen considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! These cookies can be made vegetarian, and you can easily adapt them for gluten-free diets by using a certified gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, if you have egg allergies, you can replace the egg with a flax egg—simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Enjoy baking!
Irresistibly Chewy Banana Bread Cookies for Your Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth, then stir in melted butter.
- Mix in granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in any desired mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and puffy.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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