Banana Bread Cookies

 

If you’ve ever found yourself with a bunch of ripe bananas but no time to bake, these Banana Bread Cookies are just the solution you need. They combine the comfort of banana bread with the delightful chewiness of cookies, making them a perfect treat for busy evenings, family snacks, or cozy nights in. With just a little effort, you’ll be in for a delicious, homemade surprise!

 

Why You Will Love This Recipe

 

Have you ever craved something that’s both comforting and easy to make? These Banana Bread Cookies are wonderfully cozy and are sure to become a family favorite. They’re simple to whip up, and they freeze well for later munching. Plus, they make a fantastic use of overripe bananas—no waste here! These cookies are not just treats; they’re a warm hug in cookie form, perfect for sharing on a chilly evening or bringing to a gathering. So, go ahead and pin this recipe for your future baking adventures!

 

Ingredients

 

Looking for the best bananas to use? Opt for overripe ones, as they bring natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies.

 

• • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

 

• • ½ cup brown sugar

 

• • ½ cup granulated sugar

 

• • 1 large egg

 

• • ½ cup melted butter

 

• • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

• • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

 

• • 1 teaspoon baking soda

 

• • ½ teaspoon salt

 

• • ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

 

 

For 2 servings, use 1 ripe banana and halve all other ingredients. For more than 4 serves, increase all ingredients proportionally.

 

Instructions

 

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and cookie release.

 

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with melted butter, granular sugar, and brown sugar until it’s beautifully combined. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

 

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla to your banana mixture, stirring gently. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together before slowly incorporating them into the wet ingredients.

 

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Once everything is combined, fold in nuts or chocolate chips if you’d like. Use a tablespoon to scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown on the edges.

 

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

 

Do you often find yourself short on time but still want something delicious? These Banana Bread Cookies come together quickly and are perfect for meal prepping. Bake a batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for an easy grab-and-go snack during a busy week. The ease of preparing this recipe makes it a weeknight-friendly choice, giving you more time to enjoy cozy moments with loved ones.

 

Tips & Tricks

 

• • Use Really Ripe Bananas: They not only provide moisture but enrich the cookie’s flavor. Avoid shiny or underripe options!

 

• • Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender bite.

 

• • Adjust for Portions: Regardless of how many cookies you want, just adjust the mashed bananas and the sugar according to how many people are eating.

 

• • Experiment with Add-Ins: Chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits work beautifully, allowing you to customize your cookies.

 

 

Variations

 

• • Meaty Version: Add ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for a savory twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas. It’s a surprising but delightful combo!

 

• • Vegetarian Option: Use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacement if you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly option.

 

• • Ingredient Swap: Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add a nutty flavor and boost nutrition.

 

• • Flavor or Herb Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced aroma that elevates the cookie.

 

 

Serving Suggestions

 

• • Glass of Milk: Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic, comforting experience.

 

• • Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh slices of banana or berries on the side for added freshness.

 

• • Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.

 

• • Casual Gatherings: Arrange them on a pretty plate to impress guests at casual family get-togethers or potlucks!

 

 

Storage Instructions

 

• • Fridge Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They stay moist and delicious!

 

• • Reheating: Warm them up in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that just-baked taste.

 

• • Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to 3 months.

 

• • Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough in advance, scoop it out, and freeze the mounds; just bake them straight from the freezer.

 

 

Recipe Timing

 

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

 

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

 

Calories: 150-200 per serving
Protein: 2-3g
Key Nutrients: Fiber and Potassium
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients or portions.

 

FAQs

 

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    Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for later baking.

    
    

     

    
    

 

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    What if the dough is too sticky?
    If your dough feels overly sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a manageable consistency.

    
    

     

    
    

 

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    Can I substitute ingredients?
    Absolutely! You can use applesauce or yogurt in place of butter for a lighter version or any flour you prefer.

    
    

     

    
    

 

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    What if my cookies spread too much?
    Ensure your butter isn’t too warm when mixing and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to reduce excess spreading.

    
    

     

    
    

 

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    How should I store leftovers?
    Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, enjoying their softness even days later!

    
    

     

    
    

 

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    Can I adjust the sweetness?
    Definitely! You can reduce sugar or use a sweetener to suit your taste. Adjusting for fewer bananas can help too.

    
    

     

    
    

 

 

Conclusion

 

These Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful mashup that brings warmth and comfort into any kitchen. They’re easily modifiable and can become your go-to treat for both family gatherings and quiet evenings at home. Feel free to customize them, and share with loved ones or save them for yourself! That delicious banana bread flavor in cookie form is a craving you’ll want to revisit often.