Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a batch of freshly baked cookies, especially when they are as delightful as these Banana Bread Cookies. Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie packed with the sweet, natural flavor of ripe bananas and hints of cinnamon. These cookies effortlessly blend the wonderful taste of banana bread with the crispiness and indulgence of a cookie, making them the perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet snack in the afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup oats
- 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: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, stirring until fully blended and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the oats along with the optional walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips, if using. The mixture should be thick and deliciously fragrant.
- Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are beautifully golden and the centers are set.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Notes or Tips
For a little extra flair, feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins, such as shredded coconut or dried fruit. If you prefer a softer cookie, you can slightly underbake them and allow them to set outside the oven. Store any leftovers in an airtight container; they won’t last long, but they can be kept for a few days!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering these Banana Bread Cookies requires no special techniques—just a touch of love and care! Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing, and remember to mash the bananas well for the best texture. Also, allow your cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet, as they will continue to firm up as they cool!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies? Yes! These Banana Bread Cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure to cool them completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What can I substitute for bananas? Applesauce can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly. For a vegan option, you might also try mashed avocados or pumpkin puree.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a hug in cookie form! Perfectly sweet with a delightful chewy texture, they make for an ideal snack or a comforting dessert. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy day at home, these cookies are sure to become a cherished favorite. Happy baking!