Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These delightful Banana Bread Cookies are like a warm hug on a plate, combining the beloved flavors of classic banana bread with the chewy goodness of cookies. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress everyone with their rich, sweet banana flavor and a hint of chocolate or walnut crunch. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate treat!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips or walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filled with sweetness.
- Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until everything is well combined, creating a luscious batter.
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, adding moisture and richness to your cookie dough.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This will be the dry mixture that gives your cookies structure.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want soft, tender cookies!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips or walnuts, if you’re using them, for an extra burst of flavor and texture in every bite.
- Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown, giving them that perfect crispy texture.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma will be irresistible!
Notes or Tips
For a completely gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re not a fan of chocolate chips, feel free to use dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a different flavor twist. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
When it comes to baking, the right technique can make all the difference. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugars; this ensures a light, airy texture in your cookies. Also, remember to measure your flour properly — fluff it up with a spoon before spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife for the perfect cookie consistency.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just thaw them beforehand and make sure to drain any excess liquid. They’ll work perfectly for this recipe!
What can I substitute for butter? You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute to make these cookies dairy-free.
How do I know when cookies are done? Look for firm edges and a lightly golden-brown color. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.
Conclusion
With their perfect blend of flavors and textures, these Banana Bread Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, sharing with friends, or treating yourself to a sweet snack, these cookies are a delightful choice. The combination of ripe bananas and chocolate or walnuts creates a cookie that is both comforting and satisfying. So roll up your sleeves and get ready for a baking adventure that will fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness!