Introduction
Banana bread cookies bring the comforting flavors of classic banana bread into a delightful cookie form. Soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, these cookies are perfect for using up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (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 large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor; they should be very soft and speckled with brown.
- Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or shredded coconut.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
For the best texture in your cookies, it’s crucial to cream the butter and sugars thoroughly. This step incorporates air into the mixture, creating a lighter finish. Additionally, be gentle when mixing the dry ingredients; this helps maintain a tender dough.
FAQ
- Can I freeze the cookie dough?
- Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop it onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
- How do I ensure my cookies are chewy?
- Do not overbake your cookies. They will continue to set after removing them from the oven.
Conclusion
Enjoy these banana bread cookies as a sweet snack or a delightful treat for any occasion. With their soft texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a household favorite! Happy baking!