Grandma used to turn overripe bananas into magic, and these Banana Bread Cookies are proof!

Banana Bread Cookies : There’s something incredibly special about baked goods that remind us of our childhood. For many, the scent of freshly baked cookies can transport us back to a warm kitchen filled with laughter and love. One such delightful treat that holds a special place in our hearts (and bellies!) is the Banana Bread Cookie. These cookies have a magical way of transforming overly ripe bananas into a sweet, soft, and comforting delight. Today, we will walk you through the process of making these delicious Banana Bread Cookies, just like Grandma used to make.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Banana Bread Cookies are not just a variation of the classic cookie; they are an experience! The combination of soft, ripe bananas with warm spices creates a warm and inviting flavor. Here are a few reasons why you will fall in love with this recipe:

1. Simplicity: This recipe uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes!
2. Repurposing Bananas: If you often find yourself with overripe bananas that are too mushy to eat, this recipe is a fantastic solution. It reduces waste and turns those sad-looking bananas into something magical.
3. Soft and Chewy Texture: Banana Bread Cookies are deliciously soft with a slight chew, similar to traditional banana bread but in a handheld cookie version. They melt in your mouth with every bite.
4. Versatility: These cookies can be customized with various mix-ins, like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste.
5. Family-Friendly: This is a perfect recipe for baking with kids. They will enjoy mashing the bananas and stirring the mixture, and the cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Now, let’s dive into how to prepare these delightful Banana Bread Cookies!

How to Prepare Banana Bread Cookies

Ingredients:

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to make these delicious Banana Bread Cookies:

• Wet Ingredients:
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 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 chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions:

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s make some delicious Banana Bread Cookies!

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, take the ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they are smooth. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. A stand mixer or hand mixer will make this job easier.
4. Mix in the Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Beat until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the mashed bananas into the butter mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing; this will keep your cookies soft.
6. Add Optional Ingredients: If you are adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits, now is the time! Gently fold them into the cookie dough.
7. Scoop the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie as they will spread a little while baking.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look underbaked, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them fresh out of the oven, accompanied by a glass of milk or a cup of coffee or tea. They are perfect for snack time, dessert, or even breakfast if you want to start your day with something sweet and wholesome.

For an added touch, consider drizzling a little melted chocolate over the cookies or dusting them with powdered sugar before serving. You can also pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

How to Store Banana Bread Cookies

To keep your Banana Bread Cookies fresh, follow these simple storage tips:

1. Room Temperature: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
2. Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, be sure to use an airtight container to avoid them becoming dry.
3. Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tips for Preparing Banana Bread Cookies

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor! Look for bananas with brown spots as they are sweeter and easier to mash.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.
3. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices, like nutmeg or ginger, for a different flavor profile.
4. Chill the Dough: If your dough is very soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before scooping. This will make it easier to handle and help the cookies hold their shape.
5. Test for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be light golden on the edges and slightly soft in the middle.

Variations

If you want to switch things up, here are a few variations you can try:

• Peanut Butter Banana Cookies: Stir in some creamy peanut butter for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with bananas.
• Oatmeal Banana Cookies: Incorporate quick oats into the dough for added texture and nutrition.
• Chocolate Banana Cookies: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips for an extra treat.
• Healthy Banana Cookies: Substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar for a healthier version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
   • Yes! Frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
2. What can I use instead of butter?
   • You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative if you need a dairy-free option.
3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
   • The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set but may still appear soft. They will firm up as they cool.
4. Can I add other fruits to the cookies?
   • Absolutely! You can mix in dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, for an interesting twist.
5. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   • Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Through this simple and delightful recipe, you can bring a little magic into your kitchen and create delicious Banana Bread Cookies that will surely remind you of Grandma’s love and warmth. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of making these heartwarming treats! Happy baking!