If you’re searching for a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, this Banana Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine soft, moist cookies packed with the natural sweetness and comforting aroma of ripe bananas, complemented perfectly by the chewiness of oats and the occasional crunch of nuts or bursts of chocolate chips. Whether you’re after a wholesome breakfast bite or a cozy afternoon snack, these banana cookies bring simple ingredients together in a way that’s irresistibly delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun because each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of these banana cookies. From the creamy butter to the earthy cinnamon and hearty oats, let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas: Naturally sweet and moist, ripe bananas provide the base flavor and keep the cookies soft.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb, balancing moisture and flavor.
- ¾ cup brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes and helps with the chewy texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to a slight lift.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds warmth to the overall flavor.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the cookies soft.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Ensures lightness and slight rise for a tender cookie.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds subtle spice and depth that complements the bananas beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats: Gives the cookies heartiness and a delightful chew.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Introduces crunch and nutty flavor, elevating texture complexity.
- ½ cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional): Offers bursts of gooey chocolate or chewy fruit for extra indulgence.
How to Make Banana Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepping the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring it reaches the perfect baking temperature. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup—this simple step makes all the difference in the final presentation and ease of baking.
Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This aerates the butter, setting the stage for soft, tender cookies packed with flavor.
Step 3: Adding Bananas and Flavors
Mix in the mashed ripe bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. The bananas bring moistness and natural sweetness, while the egg and vanilla add richness and warmth—each stir blending these ingredients into a luscious batter.
Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed, so every cookie has a consistent taste and texture.
Step 5: Mixing Wet and Dry
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. This gentle combining prevents overmixing, which could toughen the cookies, resulting in a soft and tender crumb instead.
Step 6: Adding Oats and Extras
Stir in the old-fashioned oats for that comforting chewiness. If you’re opting for nuts and chocolate chips or raisins, fold them in now to incorporate those wonderful bursts of texture and flavor.
Step 7: Baking the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain tender. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here rewards you with perfect banana cookies.
How to Serve Banana Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Simple is often best when it comes to garnishing these banana cookies. A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top can add an elegant touch and extra flavor. Fresh banana slices served alongside add a visually appealing and tasty garnish.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy snack. For breakfasts, serve alongside yogurt or a fruit smoothie to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Their mild sweetness and soft texture make them wonderfully adaptable to many occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by stacking several cookies and securing with a rustic twine bow for a charming gift idea or a pantry centerpiece. For a playful twist, sandwich two cookies with a spread of peanut butter or cream cheese frosting in between. This Banana Cookies Recipe is versatile enough to fit any event or craving!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store your banana cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and tasty for up to 5 days, making them perfect for baking ahead to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
This Banana Cookies Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a quick treat, just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for a freshly baked feel.
Reheating
Reheat your banana cookies in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This step revives their soft, gooey texture, making every bite taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this Banana Cookies Recipe?
Yes! Overripe bananas are actually ideal because they are sweeter and softer, which enhances the sweetness and moistness of your cookies beautifully.
Are these banana cookies gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make a delicious gluten-free version that keeps the same great texture.
Can I replace the butter with a healthier alternative?
Absolutely! You can replace half or all of the butter with applesauce for a lower-fat version. This will slightly change the texture but will keep your cookies tender and moist.
Is it necessary to add nuts or chocolate chips?
No, these are optional ingredients. You can leave them out if desired, or swap them for dried fruit or seeds to customize the cookies to your taste.
How do I keep banana cookies soft for longer?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature with a slice of bread inside. The bread helps maintain moisture, keeping the cookies soft for up to a week.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Cookies Recipe is truly a cozy classic you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. Its simplicity, comforting flavors, and versatility make it a joy to bake and share. Once you’ve tasted these soft, comforting cookies, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. So preheat that oven and dive into a batch of your new favorite banana cookie indulgence!
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
These soft and cake-like Banana Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or snacking. Made with ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, they bring natural sweetness and wholesome texture in every bite. Optional additions like walnuts or chocolate chips add extra flavor and crunch, while the recipe can be easily adapted for a healthier twist. Enjoy a comforting American dessert that’s simple to prepare and freezes well for future enjoyment.
Ingredients
Main 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
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the mashed ripe bananas, the egg, and vanilla extract thoroughly until all wet ingredients are well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the banana mixture, stirring gently to form a consistent dough without overmixing.
- Add Oats and Optional Ingredients: Stir in the old-fashioned oats. If desired, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Form and Arrange Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they firm up without becoming soggy.
Notes
- These cookies have a soft, cake-like texture perfect for breakfast or a wholesome snack.
- For a healthier alternative, replace half the butter with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Cookies freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
