Banana Bread Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with the fun of cookies, then these Banana Bread Cookies are just what you need! They are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them a perfect snack for any time of day. I love how easy they are to whip up, which makes them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, they’re a delicious way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop!

These cookies have quickly become a favorite in my home. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast with a cup of coffee or serving them as dessert after dinner, they never fail to bring smiles all around. Trust me—once you try these Banana Bread Cookies, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet taste of bananas, making these cookies a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile options: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for an extra touch!
• Perfect for meal prep: Bake a batch at the start of the week and enjoy fresh cookies whenever cravings hit.
• Comforting flavor: The warm spices and soft texture bring that cozy banana bread experience into cookie form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create these delicious Banana Bread Cookies. You might already have most of these on hand!

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Mix-Ins

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can swap in different flavors and textures based on what you have or what you love.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Go chocolaty: Stir in chocolate chips for a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with bananas.
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
• Spice it up: Experiment with adding nutmeg or even some oats for an interesting twist.

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the baking soda evenly so every cookie rises beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Then mix in the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture brings moisture and sweetness to your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft cookies that melt in your mouth!

Step 5: Fold in Optional Mix-Ins

If you’re using any optional ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts, now’s the time to fold them gently into your dough. This adds extra flavor and fun surprises in each bite.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for about 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden and centers are set. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is crucial as it allows them to firm up slightly while still being warm and chewy.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Banana Bread Cookies! They’re perfect with coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Banana Bread Cookies

Baking these delightful Banana Bread Cookies is a breeze, but a few pro tips can take your cookies from good to absolutely scrumptious!

• Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently stir the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, while a light hand keeps them soft and chewy.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans not only enhances flavor but adds texture, making each bite an exciting experience.
• Chill the dough: If you have extra time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker cookies.
• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They also freeze beautifully if you want to save some for later!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

These warm, comforting Banana Bread Cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy breakfast with coffee or a sweet snack during the day, you’ll love presenting them in fun ways.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of honey: A light drizzle of honey on top adds a touch of sweetness and elevates the flavor profile.
• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar: Mixing sugar with a pinch of cinnamon creates a delightful topping that enhances that classic banana bread taste.
• Chopped nuts on top: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans can add a crunchy texture and beautiful presentation.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad complements these cookies perfectly with its bright flavors and vibrant colors. Consider using berries or citrus fruits for added zest.
• Yogurt parfait: Pairing with yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruits creates a deliciously creamy balance to the chewy cookies.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their comforting quality while providing warmth.
• Ice cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the soft cookies!

Enjoy baking and sharing your Banana Bread Cookies! They are sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Banana Bread Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week. Whether you’re packing them for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they hold up beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between cookies.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Banana Bread Cookies:

Can I use frozen bananas for Banana Bread Cookies?

Yes! Simply thaw the frozen bananas completely before mashing. They will work perfectly in this recipe.

How do I know when my Banana Bread Cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown while the centers remain set but soft. Keep an eye on them during baking!

What can I add to my Banana Bread Cookies?

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

Can I make these Banana Bread Cookies vegan?

You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and replace butter with a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful Banana Bread Cookies! Their soft and chewy texture combined with the comforting flavor of banana makes them truly special. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!