Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Discover the ultimate comfort treat with these Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies! Perfectly combining the rich taste of ripe bananas with the warm essence of vanilla, these cookies offer a delightful, chewy texture that will leave you craving more. Simple to make and ideal for sharing or enjoying on your own, they’re the perfect addition to your dessert repertoire.
Baking has always been a cherished moment in my kitchen, especially when it comes to cookies. These Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies have been a family favorite!
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies are not just your average cookie; they are a delightful treat that transcends seasons. Whether you're looking for a cozy snack during the chilly months or a sweet bite to enjoy at a summer picnic, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their banana flavor adds a unique twist that appeals to both young and old, making them a family favorite for gatherings, bake sales, and quiet evenings at home.
Furthermore, these cookies are incredibly versatile. You can adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste, and the optional chocolate chips bring an extra touch of indulgence. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, transforming your afternoon break into a gourmet experience.
Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas are not only delicious, but they also bring numerous health benefits to the table. Rich in potassium, they help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and support heart health. Additionally, bananas contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for your baking adventures. By incorporating ripe bananas into your cookie dough, you're not only enhancing flavor but also boosting the health quotient of your treats.
Moreover, the fiber content in bananas aids digestion, making these cookies a guilt-free indulgence. For those mindful of their health choices, these Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies can serve as a great alternative to more traditional, less nutritious desserts.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure that your Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to consider. First, make sure your bananas are at peak ripeness; they should be heavily speckled and soft to guarantee maximum flavor. Overripe bananas lend a rich sweetness that enhances the cookie's taste. Second, don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps maintain that soft and fluffy texture that you desire.
Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Every oven is different, so baking times may vary slightly. Look for a golden color around the edges, and remember that the cookies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack for total cooldown.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Cookie Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Scoop and Bake
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Storing your Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies properly can extend their shelf life, keeping them delicious for days. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can remain fresh for up to a week. If you're keen on enjoying them later, consider freezing them. Simply place cooled cookies in a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, just pull them out and let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them slightly. The chocolate chips will melt delightfully, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven taste!
Creative Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies recipe, feel free to get creative! Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with bananas. You could also experiment with different mix-ins, like dried fruits or coconut flakes, to personalize your treats further.
If you're in the mood for something different, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. These spices will complement the banana's natural sweetness and provide an extra layer of warmth to your cookies, perfect for those cozy evenings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies after baking. Just let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
→ How ripe should the bananas be?
For the best flavor, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots.
Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies
Discover the ultimate comfort treat with these Soft and Fluffy Banana Bread Cookies! Perfectly combining the rich taste of ripe bananas with the warm essence of vanilla, these cookies offer a delightful, chewy texture that will leave you craving more. Simple to make and ideal for sharing or enjoying on your own, they’re the perfect addition to your dessert repertoire.
Created by: Charity Bowen
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Cookie Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 1g