Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, and when those cookies are banana bread-inspired, you know you’re in for a treat. These Banana Bread Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, chewy goodness with the delightful flavors of ripe bananas, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a sweet breakfast, these cookies are sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts if using.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider using mini chocolate chips.
- To ensure your cookies are soft and chewy, avoid overbaking.
- Storing the cookies in an airtight container will keep them fresh for several days.
- Feel free to substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of cookie baking requires a gentle hand. Creaming the butter and sugars until light and fluffy is essential for the perfect texture. Be sure to handle the dough with care; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
FAQ
- Can I freeze the cookie dough?
- Yes, you can portion the dough and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.
- What can I substitute for eggs?
- A flaxseed meal or applesauce can work well as egg substitutes.
- How ripe should the bananas be?
- Use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots for the best flavor.
- Can I make them vegan?
- Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan-friendly alternative and replace the egg with a suitable egg substitute.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cookies are not just another cookie recipe—they are a celebration of flavor and nostalgia. Perfect for enjoying with family or sharing with friends, they offer the warmth and comfort of classic banana bread in a convenient cookie form. Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors, and watch them disappear from the cookie jar!