Banana cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies that capitalize on the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas. The combination of their soft, chewy texture and rich flavor makes them irresistible! As a home cook who has experimented with cookie recipes for years, I can confidently say these banana cookies are a new favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
- Flavorful and Unique: These cookies offer a deliciously different taste compared to standard chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies. The banana flavor shines through, making them a hit with both children and adults.
- Healthier Alternative: Packed with bananas, this recipe uses less sugar and butter than many traditional cookies, making them a great option for a guilt-free treat.
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in no time, perfect for a last-minute dessert or snack.
- Versatile and Customizable: Whether you want to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, the options are endless!
- Great for Overripe Bananas: This is my go-to recipe whenever I have overripe bananas—no waste here!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Baking
These banana cookies are made by blending mashed bananas with simple cookie ingredients and baking until golden brown.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tried this banana cookie recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to bring everything together. I did run into a challenge with measuring my bananas; remember, about 2-3 medium bananas should yield one cup of mashed banana. The first time, I ended up with too much batter and had to adjust the flour!
How to Make Banana Cookies
Making banana cookies is a straightforward process. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, mash ripe bananas until smooth, then blend in melted butter, sugar, an egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually fold in flour, baking soda, and your choice of mix-ins. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is expected. Use a spoon to drop generous portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake until edges are golden.
Expert Tips for Success
- Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies will be. Look for bananas with dark spots for maximum flavor.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can make them dry.
- Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, walnuts, or even coconut for added flavor and texture.
- Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies; they’ll continue to cook slightly after being taken out of the oven.
How to Serve Banana Cookies
Serve these cookies warm for an extra treat, perhaps alongside a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a special occasion, consider stacking them on a decorative plate for an inviting presentation.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store your banana cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a dairy-free chocolate chip for a delicious dairy-free cookie.
- Nutty Banana Cookies: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to enhance texture and flavor.
- Spiced Version: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced cookie.
Nutritional Highlights
Banana cookies are a great source of dietary fiber thanks to the bananas. They also offer potassium, which is essential for heart health. However, be mindful of the sugar content, especially if you add additional mix-ins. These cookies are not nut-free, so adjust your portions based on your dietary needs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cookies Spread Too Much: If your cookies spread excessively, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking; this can help them hold their shape.
- Too Dry or Crumbly: This could be due to over-measuring your flour. If they do turn out dry, try reducing the flour next time or adding an extra banana for moisture.
- Not Sweet Enough: Adjust the sugar according to your taste preference. Remember, overripe bananas add natural sweetness, so keep that in mind!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing. -
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, simply halve all the ingredients, and you’ll have fewer cookies—perfect for smaller gatherings! -
What can I do with leftover cookies?
You can freeze them or make cookie sandwiches with icing or cream cheese for a fun twist! -
How do I tell when the cookies are done?
Look for golden edges and a set center. They may look soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, perfect for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
- 2-3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Your choice of mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Blend in melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in flour and baking soda with your choice of mix-ins.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake until edges are golden, about 12-15 minutes.
Notes
For softer cookies, do not overbake. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American