Ultimate Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

Soft, Chewy & Irresistible!

Banana bread lovers, rejoice! If you’ve ever craved the warm, comforting flavors of classic banana bread in a convenient, bite-sized treat, these Banana Bread Cookies are just what you need. They are soft, chewy, and filled with the rich flavors of ripe bananas, brown sugar, and vanilla, with the added bonus of optional nuts and chocolate chips.

Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert, these cookies capture everything we love about banana bread in an easy-to-make, grab-and-go format. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up overripe bananas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – No special baking skills required.
  • Great for Overripe Bananas – The best way to use up those bananas before they go bad.
  • Soft & Chewy – These cookies have a perfect texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to make them your own.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – A great snack for kids, a delicious breakfast treat, or a sweet gift!

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium-sized bananas)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls (small, medium, and large)
  • Whisk
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Bananas

In a small bowl, mash the ripe bananas and mix them with lemon juice. This helps prevent browning and enhances the banana flavor.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a soft and chewy cookie texture.

5. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

6. Incorporate the Bananas

Gradually mix in the mashed banana mixture until well combined.

7. Add the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.

8. Add Nuts and Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If using, gently fold in chopped nuts and/or chocolate chips.

9. Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

10. Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep them in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Recipe Variations

  • Cinnamon Banana Cookies – Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Oatmeal Banana Cookies – Swap 1/2 cup of flour for rolled oats for a heartier texture.
  • Vegan Banana Cookies – Replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg.
  • Gluten-Free Banana Cookies – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies without sugar?

Yes! You can use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar, though the texture may be slightly different.

How do I make them chewier?

For extra chewy cookies, add an extra egg yolk or use more brown sugar than granulated sugar.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Absolutely! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.

Do I have to use nuts or chocolate chips?

No, these are completely optional! The cookies are delicious on their own, but you can also try raisins, dried cranberries, or white chocolate chips.

What to Serve with Banana Bread Cookies

  • Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai pairs perfectly with these cookies.
  • Milk: Classic and delicious, a cold glass of milk is a great complement.
  • Peanut Butter or Nutella: Spread some peanut butter or Nutella on top for an extra treat.
  • Ice Cream: Make banana cookie ice cream sandwiches with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream!

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bread Cookies are a must-try for any banana lover. They bring all the nostalgic flavors of banana bread into a soft, chewy, and incredibly easy-to-make cookie. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and baking tips. Happy baking! 🍪🍌

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