If you love the sweet, comforting taste of bananas and the cozy, chewy texture of cookies, then you are in for a real treat with this Banana Cookies Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and flavorful, bursting with natural banana goodness, warming cinnamon, and a lightly crisp edge that will instantly become your go-to snack or breakfast companion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is an absolute winner that combines simple ingredients into a truly delightful baked delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Banana Cookies Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the ideal texture, taste, and appearance—making your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas: The star ingredient, bringing moistness, natural sweetness, and a lovely banana flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps the cookies hold their soft, cake-like texture.
- ¾ cup brown sugar: Provides deeper sweetness and moisture with its natural molasses content.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and gives structure to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the banana flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds the dough together with just the right chewiness.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and keeps them tender.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice note that pairs beautifully with banana.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights all flavors.
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats: Brings heartiness and texture, making the cookies more satisfying.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- ½ cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional): For a touch of indulgence and extra bursts of sweetness.
How to Make Banana Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is essential to ensure your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, giving you perfectly shaped treats every time.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process traps air in the batter, helping to create cookies that are soft with a tender crumb.
Step 3: Incorporate Bananas, Egg, and Vanilla
Add the mashed ripe bananas to the butter mixture, then crack in the egg and pour the vanilla extract. Mix everything until fully combined, making sure the banana flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening and spices are well blended, aiding in even flavor and texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies soft and tender.
Step 6: Add Oats and Optional Ingredients
Fold in the old-fashioned oats to provide that heartwarming chewy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the chopped nuts and chocolate chips or raisins to bring extra flavor and delightful surprises in every bite.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack to cool fully.
How to Serve Banana Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Banana cookies are charmingly simple on their own but can be elevated with a few thoughtful garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate turns these into a sweet, elegant treat perfect for sharing. Fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving also add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Side Dishes
These Banana Cookies Recipe beauties pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even a frothy latte. For a more substantial snack or breakfast, serve alongside Greek yogurt topped with honey and fresh fruit. They’re also fantastic with a glass of cold milk, making the experience nostalgic and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn these cookies into mini ice cream sandwiches? Simply sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor between two cookies for an irresistible summer treat. Another fun idea is to crumble them over a bowl of vanilla pudding or yogurt for added texture and banana goodness in every spoonful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover banana cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay soft and chewy for up to four days. Keeping them sealed tightly helps maintain their moisture and prevents them from becoming dry or stale.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep beautifully for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven.
Reheating
To revive that freshly baked feeling, pop your banana cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This step refreshes their softness and delicious aroma without drying them out. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may make them a bit chewy.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this Banana Cookies Recipe?
Yes, overripe bananas are actually perfect for this recipe! Their natural sweetness and soft texture enhance the flavor and moisture of the cookies, making each bite a delightful experience.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free by default. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make these banana cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing taste.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make this Banana Cookies Recipe vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg, and ensure your add-ins like chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy them!
What can I substitute for nuts or chocolate chips?
If you’re avoiding nuts or chocolate, raisins, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut make great alternatives that add texture and flavor while keeping the recipe just as tasty.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should come out with just lightly golden edges and a tender center. Also, storing them in an airtight container quickly helps retain their softness over time.
Final Thoughts
Baking these Banana Cookies Recipe is like welcoming a warm hug from the oven. They are easy, comforting, and packed with flavor in every bite. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again to brighten your day or satisfy any sweet craving. Give this recipe a go—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make banana cookies sooner!
Print
Banana Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously soft and cake-like banana cookies made with ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack, these cookies combine wholesome ingredients like mashed bananas, oats, and optional nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Easy to prepare and bake, they offer a comforting American treat that freezes well for convenient enjoyment later.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Additional Mix-ins
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter 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 ripe bananas, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined, adding moisture and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the banana mixture, stirring gently to form a uniform dough without overmixing.
- Add Oats and Optional Mix-ins: Stir in the old-fashioned oats, and if desired, fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips or raisins for extra texture and taste.
- Form Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are done.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring optimal texture and taste.
Notes
- These cookies have a soft, cake-like texture ideal for breakfast or snacking.
- For a healthier variation, replace half the butter with applesauce or substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.
- The cookies freeze well for up to 2 months; store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for best results.
