Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies

When I think of cozy afternoons, nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked Banana Bread Cookies wafting through the house. One day, as I rummaged through my pantry looking for inspiration, I stumbled upon some overripe bananas. Instead of the usual banana bread, I decided to experiment with a new twist. These cookies turned out to be everything I hoped for and more—soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. The combination of ripe bananas and chocolate chips creates a sweet harmony that simply melts in your mouth. They quickly became a family favorite, and now I make them whenever I need a little pick-me-up or have guests over. Trust me, once you try these delightful cookies, you’ll be craving them again and again.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
120 kcal
Protein:
1 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
5 g
Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Banana Bread Cookies

1. Unforgettable Flavor

The beauty of Banana Bread Cookies lies in their unique flavor profile. The ripe bananas lend a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with both chocolate chips and walnuts. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that elevate your standard cookie experience.

2. Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying baking project, these cookies fit the bill! With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up a batch without any hassle. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve cookie perfection.

3. Versatile Treat

These cookies are incredibly versatile. They suit any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering, a holiday celebration, or even a cozy night in. You can serve them with coffee, tea, or even milk for a delightful treat any time of day.

4. Great for Sharing

What’s better than sharing homemade cookies with friends and family? Banana Bread Cookies are perfect for gifting, so you can spread joy with each delicious bite. Package them in a cute box, and you have the ideal homemade gift!

5. Kid-Friendly Fun

Get the little ones involved! Baking these cookies can be a fun activity for kids. They’ll enjoy mashing the bananas and mixing in the ingredients. Plus, they’ll love decorating and sampling their creations afterward.

Ingredient List for Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies

Every ingredient in these Banana Bread Cookies plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the mashed bananas that keep the cookies moist to the butter that adds richness, each component harmonizes beautifully. The mini chocolate chips bring a delightful sweetness, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Together, they create a cookie that is not only delicious but also comforting.

  • 2 1/2 cups Flour: The foundation of our cookies, providing structure and a perfect chewy texture.
  • 3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda: A crucial leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder: Works alongside baking soda for a lighter texture.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cookies.
  • 3/4 cup Mashed Ripe Bananas (about 2 large bananas): The star ingredient that brings moisture and natural sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and helps keep the cookies tender.
  • 1/2 cup Butter: Provides richness and flavor; use unsalted for better control over the saltiness.
  • 1/2 cup Sugar: Sweetens the cookies perfectly.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
  • 1 Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla: A wonderful flavor enhancer.
  • 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips: For bursts of sweetness in every bite.
  • 1/2 cup Walnuts, chopped: Adds a delightful crunch.

Recipe Directions for Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies

Making Banana Bread Cookies is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma. By following these steps, you’ll create cookies that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

  1. Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it turns brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes. Be vigilant during this step—once it starts to foam, keep a close eye to prevent it from burning. Remove it from the heat immediately and transfer the melted butter to a separate bowl to cool.
  2. Once the butter has cooled for about 5 minutes, stir in both the sugar and brown sugar. Mix well until it’s thoroughly combined. The sugars should dissolve nicely, giving you a smooth mixture.
  3. Next, add the egg and vanilla into the bowl and mix until well combined. The batter will begin to get creamy and should look glossy.
  4. Now, incorporate the mashed bananas and sour cream. Stir until fully combined. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, which is perfect for these cookies!
  5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
  6. Gently fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be soft and fluffy. The dough will be slightly wet.
  7. Now, fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. They will add amazing flavor and texture to your cookies.
  8. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps the flavors meld together and makes the dough easier to handle.
  9. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  10. Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to drop one inch balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should turn golden brown, but the centers will look slightly underbaked.
  11. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. As they sit, they will become more moist and delicious. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Don’t skip the chilling time: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors develop and gives the cookies a better texture.
  • Watch the baking time: These cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
  • Use ripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots!
  • Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add other mix-ins like dried fruit or different nuts for a unique spin on the recipe.

Variations to Try

Banana Bread Cookies

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some tasty variations for your Banana Bread Cookies that will excite your taste buds!

  • Nutty Delight: Add more walnuts or even try pecans for a different nutty flavor.
  • Spiced Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry mix for a warm, fragrant touch.
  • Fruit Fusion: Mix in some dried cranberries or chopped dates for added sweetness and texture.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Chocolate Lovers: Increase the amount of mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty experience.
  • Frosted Version: Top the cooled cookies with a light cream cheese frosting for a sweet finishing touch.

What Complements This Banana Bread Cookies

Serving Banana Bread Cookies can be a delightful experience, especially when you consider the various pairings that can enhance the enjoyment of these treats. Here are some ideas:

  • Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors of the cookies and makes for a perfect afternoon snack.
  • Milk: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, creating a classic combination that everyone loves.
  • Ice Cream: Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Fruit Salad: Serve with a fresh fruit salad to add a light and refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
  • Seasonal Occasions: These cookies make a great treat for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet surprise for loved ones.
  • Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage!

FAQ

Yes, using frozen bananas is a great option! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. Frozen bananas are often sweeter and more flavorful than fresh ones, making them an excellent addition to your Banana Bread Cookies.

The best way to check if your Banana Bread Cookies are done is to look at the edges. They should be golden brown, while the centers may appear slightly underbaked. Remember, the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking to ensure even baking.

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, you can easily substitute them with other nuts like pecans or almonds. You can also skip the nuts altogether for a nut-free version of these Banana Bread Cookies.

Conclusion

The charm of Banana Bread Cookies lies in their irresistible flavor and comforting texture. You’ll find they make the perfect treat for any occasion, whether casual or festive. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies

The ultimate comfort food, Banana Bread Cookies are soft, chewy, and incredibly flavorful. Made with ripe bananas and mini chocolate chips, these cookies will satisfy your sweet cravings. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, make them tonight for a delightful treat!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 36 cookies
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/2 cups Flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 3/4 cup Mashed Ripe Bananas about 2 large bananas
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1/2 cup Butter
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 count Egg
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla
  • 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips
  • 1/2 cup Walnuts chopped

Instructions
 

  • 1. Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it turns brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes. Be vigilant during this step—once it starts to foam, keep a close eye to prevent it from burning. Remove it from the heat immediately and transfer the melted butter to a separate bowl to cool.
  • 2. Once the butter has cooled for about 5 minutes, stir in both the sugar and brown sugar. Mix well until it’s thoroughly combined. The sugars should dissolve nicely, giving you a smooth mixture.
  • 3. Next, add the egg and vanilla into the bowl and mix until well combined. The batter will begin to get creamy and should look glossy.
  • 4. Now, incorporate the mashed bananas and sour cream. Stir until fully combined. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, which is perfect for these cookies!
  • 5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
  • 6. Gently fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be soft and fluffy. The dough will be slightly wet.
  • 7. Now, fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. They will add amazing flavor and texture to your cookies.
  • 8. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps the flavors meld together and makes the dough easier to handle.
  • 9. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • 10. Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to drop one inch balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should turn golden brown, but the centers will look slightly underbaked.
  • 11. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. As they sit, they will become more moist and delicious. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors develop and gives the cookies a better texture.
  • Tip 2: These cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
  • Tip 3: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots!
  • Tip 4: Feel free to add other mix-ins like dried fruit or different nuts for a unique spin on the recipe.
Keyword Baking with Bananas, Banana Bread Cookies, chocolate chip cookies, easy cookie recipe

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