Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

If you love the cozy, comforting vibes of classic banana bread but want something a bit more fun and handheld, you are going to adore this Banana Bread Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture all the warm flavors you expect from banana bread—ripe bananas, cinnamon, a touch of brown sugar sweetness—but in a perfectly soft and chewy cookie form that’s easy to snack on anytime. The recipe is straightforward, with familiar pantry staples coming together to create something memorable, and you’ll find the aroma from your oven irresistible as these bake to golden perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Banana Bread Cookies Recipe plays a vital role, from the ripe bananas which bring natural sweetness and moisture to the buttery base that makes the cookies tender. The cinnamon adds a hint of warmth, while the flour and baking soda provide that perfect rise and structure.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient that adds moisture and natural sweetness, make sure they’re spotted and soft for the best flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness that make these cookies sturdy but tender.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise lightly and stay soft.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the lovely flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that complements the bananas beautifully.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives richness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Deep molasses notes that bring warmth and chewiness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a bit of crispness around the edges.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little magic that boosts all the other flavors.
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans: Stir in your favorite mix-ins for extra texture and indulgence.

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. This little preparation step ensures your cookies come off perfectly without a hitch.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Combining these first helps distribute the rising agent and the spice evenly throughout the cookies, so you get a consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash up your lovely ripe bananas until smooth, then mix in the melted butter, both sugars, egg, and vanilla extract. Mixing these well gives the batter a rich, aromatic base that your cookies will be built on.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now, gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Be sure to mix just until everything is combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and you want that soft, chewy banana bread texture.

Step 5: Add Your Favorite Mix-Ins

This is where you can get creative! Fold in chocolate chips for bursts of sweetness or nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor. These optional additions make the Banana Bread Cookies Recipe uniquely yours.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they have room to spread slightly. Pop them into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping an eye for golden edges and set centers.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate can add a touch of elegance and sweetness. Fresh banana slices on the side amplify the banana flavor and make a beautiful presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a cold glass of milk to balance their sweet, warmly spiced notes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn them into a delightful dessert treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the Banana Bread Cookies Recipe with layers of cream cheese frosting or peanut butter spread for a fun “cookie sandwich.” They also make wonderful lunchbox treats or party favors tucked into pretty wax paper bags with a colorful ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Banana Bread Cookies tightly sealed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will preserve their soft, chewy texture and fresh banana flavor.

Freezing

Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully, making these cookies a perfect make-ahead snack.

Reheating

Warm the cookies gently in a microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes to revive that soft, freshly-baked feel—almost like you just made them.

FAQs

Can I use unripe bananas for this Banana Bread Cookies Recipe?

It’s best to use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots because they are softer and sweeter, which gives the cookies their moist texture and rich banana flavor. Unripe bananas won’t mash as easily or provide the same sweetness.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and more fiber, though the texture may be a bit denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to keep the cookies tender while adding a wholesome touch.

Do I need to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Mix-ins are totally optional! They add texture and extra flavor but the cookies are delicious on their own with the classic banana and cinnamon blend. Feel free to customize to your liking.

How long do the cookies stay fresh at room temperature?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies remain soft and delicious for about 3 to 4 days. After that, they might start to dry out, but you can revive them slightly with a quick warm-up.

Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before baking. Just give it a gentle mix before scooping onto your baking sheet.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about turning the beloved flavors of banana bread into a charming, chewy cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. This Banana Bread Cookies Recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate—easy to make, packed with cozy spices, and endlessly adaptable to your favorite add-ins. Give it a try, and soon these cookies might just become your new go-to comfort treat that friends and family will ask you to make again and again.

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