If you adore the comforting warmth of classic banana bread but crave something a little more portable and snackable, you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Banana Bread Cookies Recipe. These soft, cake-like cookies capture every bit of that familiar banana flavor with a delightful cinnamon hint, a touch of vanilla, and the perfect balance of sweetness. Imagine biting into a cookie with the familiar moistness of banana bread, plus the inviting pop of walnuts or chocolate chips if you choose to add them. It’s like your favorite loaf transformed into enchanting little bites of pure joy that you can share, gift, or stash for yourself without any guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Banana Bread Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance. Whether it’s the ripeness of the banana adding natural sweetness and moisture, or the cinnamon giving a gentle warmth, every component contributes to a balanced and delicious cookie.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives richness and a tender crumb for soft cookies.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Provides sweetness and helps create that lightly golden edge.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor enhancing depth.
- Ripe banana (1 large, mashed, about 1/2 cup): The star ingredient delivering moisture, sweetness, and unmistakable banana taste.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lifts the banana flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides the necessary structure for the cookies to hold shape.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly to keep them soft and tender.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures a light texture and delicate crumb.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a cozy spice note, perfect with banana.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Introduces crunch and a nutty contrast if you like extra texture.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For a melty, sweet surprise in every bite.
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the tray without a fuss, so clean edges and clean-up friendly—always a win!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it aerates the mixture, helping give the cookies their lovely soft texture and gentle rise.
Step 3: Mix in Banana, Egg, and Vanilla
Next, incorporate your ripe mashed banana, egg, and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar blend. Mix just until everything is combined to keep the batter light and easy to work with—this is the heart of your banana flavor shine.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; a tender cookie is born from gentle folding.
Step 6: Fold in Nuts or Chocolate Chips
If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now to evenly distribute those delightful bites throughout the batter without breaking their shape.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Keep them about two inches apart to give the cookies room to spread without merging. Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a gentle golden shade and the centers look set but soft.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes—this helps them firm up just enough before transferring them onto a wire rack to reach room temperature. Now, brace yourself for irresistible bites of banana bread in cookie form!
How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful snowy effect that invites you to dive in. Alternatively, a thin layer of cream cheese frosting drizzled or spread atop makes these cookies decadently indulgent and perfect for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair your Banana Bread Cookies Recipe with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the cinnamon and banana notes. If you want to keep it simple, a glass of cold milk is a timeless, comforting duo that always hits the spot.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking several cookies tied with a rustic piece of twine for a charming gift idea. Another fun way is to sandwich a dollop of cream cheese frosting or peanut butter between two cookies to create a lush banana bread cookie sandwich that will wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Banana Bread Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh and soft for up to three days. The sealed environment keeps moisture in to maintain that wonderful soft texture.
Freezing
If you want to save these cookies for later, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a tray to freeze first, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to two months, perfect for when you need a quick sweet fix.
Reheating
To enjoy your frozen cookies like freshly baked, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. You’ll be greeted with soft, warm banana bread cookie goodness in no time.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this Banana Bread Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect because they are sweeter and mash easily, which enhances the flavor and moistness of your cookies.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
You can try whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but expect a slightly denser cookie. Gluten-free blends usually work too, but results may vary slightly.
Are walnuts or chocolate chips necessary?
Not at all! They’re optional add-ins. If you prefer plain cookies, just skip them—they’re delicious on their own as well.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a flax or chia egg in place of the chicken egg. The texture may be a bit different but still tasty!
How long should I bake if I want softer cookies?
Baking for around 10 minutes usually yields soft cookies, but if you want them extra soft, check at the 9-minute mark and remove as soon as the edges set but centers look slightly undercooked.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Cookies Recipe is a delightful twist on a beloved classic that effortlessly blends comfort and convenience. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a breakfast on-the-go, or a tasty treat to impress guests, these cookies deliver all the warm, cozy flavors with none of the fuss. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these as much as I love baking them!
Print
Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Bread Cookies combine the soft, moist texture of classic banana bread with the convenience and bite-sized pleasure of cookies. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they feature ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and optional walnuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Banana, Egg, and Vanilla: Mix in the mashed banana, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined, imparting moisture and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensuring a tender cookie.
- Fold in Optional Nuts or Chocolate Chips: If desired, gently fold in the chopped walnuts, pecans, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- Shape Cookies: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers have set, to achieve the perfect soft, banana bread-like texture.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- These cookies have a soft and cake-like texture, similar to banana bread.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- For an indulgent twist, try adding a glaze or cream cheese frosting on top of cooled cookies.
