Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of banana bread but want a fun, bite-sized twist, these Banana Bread Cookies are an absolute game-changer. Soft, chewy, and bursting with warm cinnamon and sweet banana goodness, these cookies capture everything you adore about classic banana bread in an easy-to-make, perfectly portable treat. Whether you’re craving an anytime snack or looking to impress friends with something a little different, these Banana Bread Cookies are pure magic out of the oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Banana Bread Cookies lies in their simple, wholesome ingredients—each one plays a crucial role in creating that delightful balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture, to the hearty flour and warm cinnamon that provide structure and depth, every component contributes to the cookie’s irresistible charm.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Choose bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture in the dough.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together, ensuring just the right chewiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives a gentle lift so the cookies stay soft but not cakey.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the banana flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, aromatic spice that’s a signature of banana bread vibes.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Imparts richness and keeps the cookies tender.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides deep caramel notes and extra moisture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of crunch and balances sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and creates a perfectly soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, floral aroma.
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans: For a delicious mix-in that adds texture and flavor punch.

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies that won’t stick and will have beautifully crisp edges.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices so every cookie has that signature banana bread flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, then mix in the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until everything melds into a luscious, uniform mixture.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Over-mixing here can make the cookies tough, so take it slow and stop as soon as the flour streaks disappear.

Step 5: Add Mix-Ins

If you’re using chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans, fold them in now for that delightful surprise in every bite. These extras elevate your Banana Bread Cookies from simple to spectacular.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the parchment-lined sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn golden and the centers set but remain soft and chewy.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let your Banana Bread Cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them firm up just right without losing moisture.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

Garnishes

Dress up your Banana Bread Cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an elegant touch. Toasted nuts sprinkled on top just before baking add a beautiful crunch and nutty aroma.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a warm mug of chai tea or a creamy latte. For a breakfast treat, enjoy them alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries—sweet, creamy, and totally satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Banana Bread Cookies into a dessert centerpiece by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies to create mini ice cream sandwiches. You can also crumble them over vanilla pudding or use as a topping for banana-flavored smoothies for extra texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy. If your kitchen is warm, keeping them in the fridge can extend freshness by a couple more days.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready for a sweet snack.

Reheating

To enjoy freshly warm Banana Bread Cookies anytime, pop them into the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm briefly in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This revives the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and makes them taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for Banana Bread Cookies?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas work perfectly since they’re often extra soft and sweet.

What if I don’t have cinnamon?

You can skip the cinnamon or substitute with warm spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just keep an eye on texture as gluten-free flours vary.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use a flax egg instead of the regular egg. The flavors will still be fantastic.

How long do Banana Bread Cookies keep fresh?

Stored properly, they stay soft and delicious for about 3 days at room temperature. Refrigerating or freezing can extend their shelf life as well.

Final Thoughts

Making these Banana Bread Cookies feels like a warm hug in cookie form. They bring all the best parts of banana bread into a fun, easy treat that’s perfect any time of day. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be reaching for them again and again—so go ahead and bake a batch, then share the love with family and friends. You’re going to adore every bite!

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