Banana Bread Cookies
Few things bring back the warmth of home as much as the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and when those cookies are Banana Bread Cookies, you’re in for a delightful treat. I remember the first time I decided to experiment with banana bread and cookies simultaneously. It was a rainy afternoon, perfect for baking. I had a couple of overly ripe bananas sitting on my counter, and instead of making the usual loaf of banana bread, I decided to try something new. The result? A batch of cookies that combined the moist, sweet goodness of banana bread with the chewy texture of a classic cookie. Each bite was a nostalgic reminder of cozy family gatherings and the comfort of homemade goodies.
As I pulled the first tray out of the oven, the golden-brown cookies looked so inviting, and the smell filled my kitchen like a warm hug. Friends and family who tried them couldn’t believe how simple they were to make. Everyone seemed to have a favorite way to enjoy them: some loved them warm with a scoop of ice cream, while others preferred them with a hot cup of coffee. I was sold on the idea of making Banana Bread Cookies a regular feature in my baking repertoire. They’re not just a treat but a way to use up those bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
150 kcal
2g g
Vegan
6g g
Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl
The Best Thing About This Banana Bread Cookies
They’re So Easy to Make
Baking can feel intimidating, especially if you’re new to the kitchen. However, Banana Bread Cookies are incredibly forgiving and straightforward. There’s no need for complicated techniques or fancy equipment, just your basic mixing bowls and a baking sheet. You can whip these up in a flash, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute dessert craving.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a cozy night in, a birthday party, or a casual gathering with friends, these cookies fit right in. Everyone loves them, and they disappear quickly! They’re also a fantastic way to introduce kids to baking. Imagine their joy as they mash bananas and mix ingredients together. It’s a fun family activity that ends with delicious results.
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who likes to prepare in advance, these cookies are a great option. They store well in an airtight container for several days and freeze beautifully. You can make a double batch and have homemade treats ready anytime you need to satisfy a sweet tooth.
Nutritious Ingredients
What I love about Banana Bread Cookies is how you can incorporate healthier ingredients without sacrificing taste. Using whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar makes these cookies a bit healthier than traditional recipes. They provide a great balance of nutrients, making them a treat you can feel good about.
A Twist on a Classic
Everyone loves banana bread, but transforming it into cookies is a fun twist that adds variety. You can play around with the mix-ins as well—add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to customize your batch. It’s a versatile recipe that can evolve depending on the season or your cravings.
Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients
When it comes to baking Banana Bread Cookies, the ingredients you choose are essential in creating the perfect texture and flavor. The combination of ripe bananas, whole wheat flour, and coconut sugar not only enhances the taste but also brings a touch of nutrition to these delicious treats. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that soft, chewy texture we all love.
- Medium Banana (overly ripe): 1126g/4.5oz – The star of the show! Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making the cookies soft and flavorful.
- Coconut Oil (melted): 2 tablespoons – A healthier fat alternative that adds richness while keeping the cookies moist.
- Coconut Sugar: 1/3 cup – A natural sweetener with a lovely caramel flavor, making the cookies delightful without being overly sugary.
- Almond Milk (unsweetened): 1 tablespoon – Adds a hint of creaminess while keeping the recipe dairy-free.
- Whole Wheat Flour: 1 cup – A great source of fiber, it gives the cookies a nutty flavor and a heartier texture.
- Baking Powder: 3/4 teaspoon – This ensures your cookies rise perfectly, giving them a lovely soft texture.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon – A warm spice that enhances the sweetness of the bananas and adds depth to the flavor.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
- Walnuts (crushed): 1/2 cup – Adds a nice crunch and a lovely nutty flavor to complement the bananas.
The Method for Banana Bread Cookies
Let’s get started on making those delicious Banana Bread Cookies! Follow these easy steps to create a batch that fills your home with warmth and happiness.
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your cookies bake evenly. A properly heated oven helps achieve that golden brown crust we all love.
- Next, take your ripe banana and mash it in a bowl until you get a smooth consistency. The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies will be. You’ll want to ensure there are no large chunks remaining so it blends well with the other ingredients.
- In the same bowl, add the melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, almond milk, and a touch of vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You should have a lovely, creamy mixture.
- In another bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them to ensure there are no lumps. This dry mixture will provide structure to your cookies.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to combine until just incorporated. This ensures your cookies stay soft and tender.
- Once combined, fold in the crushed walnuts. They add a delightful crunch, and the nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the banana.
- Using a tablespoon, drop balls of cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. This allows them room to spread while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown. They should look slightly underbaked in the center, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Let the cookies sit for another 10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is vital for achieving the perfect texture, allowing them to set up just right.
Things Worth Knowing
Things Worth Knowing
- Ingredient Quality Matters: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined.
- Storage Tip: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit to customize your cookies.
Tips and Tricks about Banana Bread Cookies
To help you bake the best Banana Bread Cookies, here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze your cookie dough in balls for easy baking later. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Pairing: These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a lovely dessert after a light dinner.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you want a plant-based option, use a flax egg instead of any liquid egg.
- Baking Sheet Choice: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
How to Enjoy Banana Bread Cookies
The beauty of Banana Bread Cookies is their versatility in serving. Here are some delightful options:
- Warm out of the oven: There’s nothing quite like a warm cookie, especially with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of ice cream on top.
- With coffee: Perfect for a morning treat or afternoon snack, these cookies pair beautifully with your favorite brew.
- As an after-school snack: Kids will love these cookies as a healthy yet sweet option when they come home from school.
- For a party platter: These cookies make a fantastic addition to any dessert table, alongside other cookies and treats.
- Gift-giving: Pack them neatly in a box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
FAQ
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cookies truly encapsulate the heartwarming spirit of homemade treats. They’re simple to prepare, deliciously moist, and filled with delightful flavors that remind us of cozy days spent in the kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a sweet snack, a fun baking project with friends, or a special treat for yourself. Trust me, once you taste these cookies, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Banana Bread Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
- Mash the banana, then combine it with coconut oil, coconut sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually mix the flour mixture into the banana mixture, making sure to combine well and avoid clumps. Gently mix in the crushed walnuts.
- Drop 1-2 tablespoon sized balls of the dough on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden.
- Let sit for another 10 minutes or so to let firm before cooling on a wire rack.
