Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that’s like banana bread but in a smaller form. These simple banana bread cookies are a fun twist on the classic. They’re ready in just 48 minutes, making 32 cookies in no time. Each cookie is not only tasty but also full of nutrients like potassium, fiber, and sugar.
Banana bread cookies are great for any time. They mix the taste of ripe bananas with a soft, chewy texture. This article will guide you through making these cookies at home. So, you can enjoy fresh cookies whenever you like.
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Banana Bread Cookies
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 32 cookies 1x
Description
These soft and chewy banana bread cookies are a fun twist on the classic banana bread. Made with ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness, they are perfect for a snack, dessert, or even breakfast! Ready in under an hour, these cookies are full of flavor and nutrients like potassium and fiber.
Ingredients
-
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
-
Optional Mix-ins:
- ½ cup rolled oats (for texture)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth.
- Mix the wet ingredients: Add melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Add mix-ins (if using): Stir in rolled oats, chocolate chips, or nuts.
- Scoop & Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Tasty Sweets
- Cuisine: American
Table of Contents
The Perfect Fusion of Banana Bread and Cookies
Banana bread cookies are a tasty mix of softness and flavor. They use overripe bananas, which makes them sweet and moist. This means you don’t need to add much sugar, making them a healthier choice.
Making your own banana bread cookies healthy lets you pick what goes in. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or other treats. You can also use different flours, like whole wheat or gluten-free, to meet dietary needs.
Here are some benefits of making your own banana bread cookies:
- Control over ingredients and flavors
- Customization options for dietary needs
- Ability to reduce food waste by using overripe bananas
By baking your own banana bread cookies, you get a tasty and healthy snack. They’re great for any time, whether you need a treat, a dessert, or a gift. So, why not try making them and enjoy the perfect blend of banana bread and cookies?
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 1 |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Banana Bread Cookies
To make tasty banana bread cookies, you need the right ingredients. For these cookies, you’ll need ripe bananas, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, baking soda, and cinnamon. The quality of these ingredients greatly affects the cookies’ flavor and texture.
Some key ingredients to focus on include:
- Ripe bananas, which provide natural sweetness and moisture
- All-purpose flour, which serves as the base for the cookie dough
- Brown sugar, which adds a rich, caramel-like flavor
- Unsalted butter, which helps to create a tender, chewy texture
When making banana bread cookies with oats, it’s essential to balance the ingredients to achieve the perfect texture. The combination of oats and brown sugar creates a delightful flavor profile. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness. By using high-quality ingredients and following a tried-and-true banana bread recipe, you’ll create delicious banana bread cookies with oats.
By focusing on these essential ingredients and using them in harmony, you’ll create a mouthwatering banana bread recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, the right ingredients will help you make delicious banana bread cookies with oats. These are perfect for any occasion.
Choosing and Preparing Your Bananas
Choosing the right bananas is key for vegan banana bread cookies. Ripe bananas add sweetness and moisture. Look for bananas that are brown and speckled; they’re softer and sweeter than yellow ones.
To check if bananas are ripe, look for brown spots and a sweet smell. You can also squeeze them gently. A ripe banana will feel slightly soft. For the best flavor, use overripe bananas in your cookies.
Ripeness Level Guide
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right bananas for your recipe:
- Green bananas: Not ripe, will not be sweet
- Yellow bananas: Ripe, but not sweet enough for baking
- Brown bananas: Ripe, sweet, and perfect for baking
Mashing Techniques
To mash your bananas, use a fork or potato masher. Peel the bananas and mash them in a bowl until smooth. You can also blend them, but be careful not to overdo it.
Step-by-Step Classic Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
To make tasty banana chocolate chip cookies, first preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, mix the butter and sugar together. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. Then, combine the dry ingredients.
This recipe is great for those who want to make simple banana bread cookies. They are both delicious and easy to make.
You’ll need 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Also, get 8 tablespoons of melted butter, 3/4 cup of light brown sugar, and 2 large eggs. Adding chocolate chips will make your cookies even better.
Here’s a quick guide to the recipe:
* Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Mix the wet ingredients (mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract).
* Combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and cinnamon).
* Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix well.
* Stir in the melted butter and sugar.
* If desired, add chocolate chips to create banana chocolate chip cookies.
By following these steps, you can make delicious simple banana bread cookies. They’re perfect for any time. This recipe is easy for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Making Soft and Chewy Banana Bread Cookies
To make the perfect soft and chewy banana bread cookies, it’s key to control moisture and use the right techniques. This means using the right amount of sugar, eggs, and butter. Also, don’t overmix the dough. By doing these things, you can make delicious soft banana bread cookies that are tasty and healthy.
Getting the right moisture is crucial for soft banana bread cookies. Use the right amount of bananas and add moisture-rich ingredients like yogurt or sour cream. For example, 3 medium bananas, which is 1.5 cups or 380g when mashed, are perfect for the right moisture.
Moisture Control Tips
Here are some tips to control moisture in your banana bread cookies:
- Use the right amount of bananas: 3 medium bananas are recommended for this recipe.
- Add moisture-rich ingredients: yogurt or sour cream can help to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Don’t overmix the dough: overmixing can lead to tough and dry cookies.
By following these tips, you can make delicious soft banana bread cookies. These cookies are perfect for snacking. They are healthy options that everyone can enjoy, and they’re great for satisfying your sweet tooth without guilt.
Texture Enhancement Techniques
Controlling moisture is not the only thing that matters. Using the right techniques can also improve the texture of your banana bread cookies. For example, using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar makes them softer and chewier. Also, the right amount of eggs and butter adds to the richness and tenderness.
Healthy Banana Bread Cookie Variations
Want to make healthier banana bread cookies? Try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. They add sweetness and some nutrients. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This boosts the fiber in your cookies.
Adding nuts or seeds can make your cookies even better. Walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds add healthy fats and protein. These simple changes can make your banana bread cookies with oats healthier and tastier.
Sugar Alternatives
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Coconut sugar
Flour Substitutions
- Whole wheat flour
- Oat flour
- Almond flour
Added Nutritional Benefits
Adding nuts or seeds to your banana bread cookies is a smart move. They bring protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Try adding chopped nuts or seeds to your favorite recipe for a nutritional boost.
With these tips, you can make healthier banana bread cookies. They’re great for snacking on the go. Whether you’re after a classic recipe or something new, there are many ways to make your cookies healthier and more delicious.
| Ingredient | Health Benefit |
|---|---|
| Honey | Natural sweetener with antioxidants |
| Whole wheat flour | High in fiber and nutrients |
| Nuts and seeds | Rich in healthy fats and protein |
Vegan Banana Bread Cookies Guide
To make tasty banana bread cookies vegan, swap eggs for flaxseed or chia seeds. Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. Pick vegan-friendly chocolate chips for a special touch. These changes make banana cookies kind to animals and the planet.
Here are some tips for making vegan banana bread cookies:
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water.
- Choose vegan-friendly chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor.
With these easy tips, you can whip up delicious banana bread cookies vegan. They’re great for munching or sharing with loved ones. Feel free to play with different ingredients and flavors to craft your own banana cookies recipes.
For a classic vegan banana bread cookie recipe, you can use the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 1 ⅔ cups |
| Vegan butter | ½ cup |
| Light brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Flaxseed meal | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Water | 1 ½ tablespoons |
This recipe yields about 18 cookies. Each cookie has 199 kcal, 28g of carbs, and 3.6g of protein. You can keep the cookies at room temperature for up to 3 days. Or, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Oatmeal Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
To make oatmeal banana bread cookies, you can use rolled oats or steel-cut oats. Adjust the texture by adding more or less oats to the dough. This recipe is a great way to add oats to your banana chocolate chip cookies. It makes them healthier and more filling.
The addition of oats pairs well with the natural sweetness of bananas. This creates a delicious and simple banana bread cookie.
When using oats in your recipe, consider the following tips:
- Use rolled oats for a softer texture
- Use steel-cut oats for a chewier texture
- Adjust the amount of oats to achieve your desired texture
By incorporating oats into your banana bread cookies, you can create a unique and delicious flavor. The combination of oats, bananas, and chocolate chips is perfect for a snack or dessert. Try making a batch of oatmeal banana bread cookies today and enjoy the benefits of oats in your favorite simple banana bread cookies recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 1.5 cups |
| Mashed bananas | 2 ripe bananas |
| Peanut butter | 1/4 cup |
| Chocolate chips | 1/3 cup |
Adding Mix-ins and Toppings
To make your soft banana bread cookies even better, try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. These can add texture, flavor, and nutrition. For instance, adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans gives a crunchy texture and healthy fats.
Dried fruit like cranberries or cherries can add a sweet and fruity taste. Chocolate chips or chunks bring a rich and indulgent flavor. It’s fun to mix and match to find your favorite taste and texture.
- Coconut flakes or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor
- Cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor
- Sea salt or flaky salt for a touch of savory flavor
- Fresh or dried herbs, such as basil or rosemary, for a unique and refreshing flavor
Remember, there are countless options. The most important thing is to have fun and try new things. This way, you can create your perfect soft banana bread cookies or healthy treats.
Baking Tips and Techniques
To make perfect banana bread cookies, controlling temperature, timing, and pan prep is key. Preheat your oven to the right temperature for the best texture. For classic banana bread, use 350°F (175°C). For banana bread cookies with oats, keep the temperature the same but watch the baking time.
Timing is crucial to avoid overbaking or underbaking. Banana bread cookies bake in 10-12 minutes, depending on size. Check them after 8 minutes and every minute after that until they’re golden.
Prepping your pan is also important. Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Grease the pan lightly when making banana bread cookies with oats to stop them from spreading too much.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Rolled oats | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
By following these tips, you can make delicious banana bread cookies for any event. Whether you’re making a classic recipe or trying one with oats, these tips will help you get the best results.
Storage and Freshness Tips
To keep your banana bread cookies fresh, store them right. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. This is great for vegan banana bread cookies, as they are more delicate.
When storing banana cookies, keep them away from sunlight and moisture. You can also store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to stay fresh.
Counter Storage Methods
For counter storage, use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. This keeps your banana bread cookies fresh and protected. You can also use a paper bag or cardboard box. Just line it with parchment paper or a paper towel to absorb moisture.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your banana cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Put them in the freezer. Once frozen, move them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes. Enjoy your delicious banana bread cookies vegan or traditional, whenever you like.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When baking banana chocolate chip cookies or simple banana bread cookies, you might face some common problems. Overmixing the dough, using the wrong flour, and not controlling the temperature are big issues. These problems can make your baking experience tough.
To solve these issues, it’s key to know about mixing, flour, and temperature. Overmixing can make cookies tough. The wrong flour can make them too dense or fragile.
Here are some common issues and their solutions:
- Overmixing: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
- Wrong flour: Use all-purpose flour for a classic banana bread cookie texture.
- Temperature control: Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings.
By knowing these common problems and how to fix them, you can make perfect banana chocolate chip cookies or simple banana bread cookies every time. Always follow a trusted recipe and prepare your ingredients well for the best results.
| Common Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Overmixing | Mix wet and dry ingredients separately |
| Wrong flour | Use all-purpose flour |
| Temperature control | Invest in an oven thermometer |
Seasonal Variations and Holiday Specials
As the holiday season gets closer, you can make your soft banana bread cookies even more special. Try adding warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to your recipe. These spices will add a cozy, autumnal flavor that pairs well with the bananas.
For holiday decorating, the options are endless. Use sprinkles, icing, or other edible decorations to make your cookies festive. Making a batch of soft banana bread cookies and decorating them with holiday sprinkles or icing is a fun and easy way to add to parties or gifts.
To make your holiday baking even more special, use seasonal ingredients like cranberries, pumpkin, or peppermint. These ingredients can help you create unique and delicious flavor combinations. With a bit of creativity, your banana bread cookies can become a standout holiday treat that will impress everyone.
Some ideas for seasonal variations include:
- Adding dried cranberries or cherries to your banana bread cookies for a fruity twist
- Using pumpkin puree or pumpkin spice to create a fall-themed flavor
- Adding peppermint extract or chocolate chips to create a refreshing and decadent treat
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
There are many ways to serve your banana bread cookies with oats. You can have them as a sweet snack or with a warm drink. For a special treat, add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
A banana bread recipe is even better with great pairings. Here are some ideas to start:
- Pair your banana bread cookies with oats with a warm cup of coffee or tea
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream
- Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a fruit smoothie
Whatever you pick, your banana bread cookies with oats will be loved. So, be creative and find your favorite way to enjoy them!
Remember, the key to a great banana bread recipe is to use high-quality ingredients and to not be afraid to experiment with different pairings and toppings.
Making Ahead and Batch Baking
Making banana bread cookies vegan ahead of time can save you a lot of time. You can freeze them for up to three months. Then, just thaw them when you’re ready to enjoy.
To make ahead, just prepare your dough as usual. Then, divide it into portions and freeze. When you want to bake, thaw the portions you need and follow your recipe. This is great for vegan banana bread cookies, keeping them fresh without constant baking.
Prep and Planning
Planning is key for batch baking. Start by getting your ingredients ready, like ripe bananas, flour, and sugar. Also, prepare your mix-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, in advance. This makes baking easier.
Freezer-Friendly Tips
Freezing your banana cookies right is important to keep them fresh. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to avoid freezer burn. You can also freeze them on a baking sheet first, then move them to a bag or container.
- Label your cookies with the date and contents
- Store your cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness
- Freeze your cookies for up to three months for optimal flavor and texture
By following these tips, you can enjoy your favorite banana bread cookies vegan anytime. You won’t have to spend hours baking every day.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the world of banana chocolate chip cookies and simple banana bread cookies. We hope you’re now ready to bake these treats at home. You can stick to classic flavors or try new ones, making each cookie your own.
Batch baking and meal prepping make it easy to have these snacks ready. With the right storage, you can enjoy them for days. Remember, the secret to success is balancing moisture, texture, and flavor.
So, get your oven ready and start baking. Let the smell of banana bread cookies fill your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and share with your loved ones. Baking is more than just making food; it’s about creating memories and bringing people together.