Description

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie bursting with delightful flavors of ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and the sweet touch of chocolate or nuts, depending on your preference. Our Banana Bread Cookies offer an inviting twist to the traditional banana bread. They embody the essence of comfort baking while being incredibly easy to whip up. This recipe is not just about cookies; it’s about reviving childhood memories of stealing a slice of warm banana bread fresh out of the oven. The combination of wholesome ingredients transforms overripe bananas into delightful little bites of heaven, making these cookies not only delicious but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste.

Perfect for any occasion—be it a casual afternoon snack, a sweet addition to your breakfast table, or a delightful treat to share with friends—these cookies are sure to please everyone. Not only do they have a soft and tender texture reminiscent of banana bread, but they also come packed with fiber-rich oats, making them a better-for-you option. With minimal steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers will find success in this delightful recipe. So grab those overripe bananas, and let’s embark on a baking adventure!

Ingredients

• *Dough Base*
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup mashed ripe bananas (approximately one large banana)
• *Add-Ins*
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
• *Substitutions and Variations*
• - For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• - If you’re out of bananas, unsweetened applesauce can work as a replacement, although the flavor will change slightly.
• - Consider substituting the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more caramel undertone.
• - Vegans can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a larger bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix well.
5. Fold in the mashed ripe bananas until just combined.
6. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
7. Fold in rolled oats, and optional chocolate chips or walnuts.
8. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers look slightly underbaked.
10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Conclusion

For those days when you need an extra boost or want to create a delightful treat platter, consider making mini banana bread muffins with this same recipe. Simply pour the batter into muffin tins instead of baking cookies—bake for approximately 15-18 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. You can also freeze any leftover cookies for future cravings—simply place them in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, pop them into the microwave for a few seconds or let them thaw at room temperature.
You've just created a batch of Banana Bread Cookies that are sure to become a household favorite! Savory, sweet, and packed with delightful flavors, these cookies are not just a treat but a warm hug in the form of baked goods. They perfectly encapsulate the essence of comfort food and the joy of baking. From the first smell wafting through your kitchen to the last delectable bite, these cookies are bound to spark conversation and smiles around the table.

Feeling inspired? Dive deeper into our delicious world of baking with our other popular recipes such as Chocolate Chip Cookies, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, or even Banana Bread Muffins. Each recipe is a journey of flavors just waiting for you to explore.

Have you baked your batch of Banana Bread Cookies yet? If so, don't forget to share your experience! Join our community, let us know your thoughts, and keep browsing for more scrumptious recipes and delightful baking tips! Happy baking!