As a passionate home cook, I find joy in transforming simple ingredients into delightful treats. One of my favorite creations is Chewy Banana Bread Cookies. These cookies are a nostalgic nod to my childhood, where the aroma of freshly baked banana bread filled our home. Imagine biting into a warm cookie that’s soft, chewy, and bursting with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas. Each bite is like a hug from the past, reminding me of family gatherings and cozy afternoons. With Chewy Banana Bread Cookies, you can enjoy the comforting essence of banana bread in a fun, portable form that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

What is Chewy Banana Bread Cookies?

Chewy Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful blend of two beloved treats: the moist, comforting banana bread and the convenient, portable cookie. This recipe emerged from the need to use overripe bananas, transforming them into a sweet, chewy delight that captures the essence of banana bread in every bite. With their rich flavor and soft texture, these cookies are a perfect example of how global influences can inspire home cooking, making them a favorite in many kitchens.

These cookies not only reduce food waste but also evoke warm memories of home baking. The combination of ripe bananas, butter, and sugar creates a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Plus, they can be easily customized with various mix-ins, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Deliciously chewy texture that satisfies your sweet cravings.
Healthier than traditional cookies, thanks to the natural sweetness of bananas.
Family-friendly recipe that kids will love to help bake.

Who It’s For

These cookies are perfect for busy families looking for a quick dessert, health-conscious cooks wanting to incorporate fruit into their treats, and food lovers who appreciate a unique twist on classic recipes. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable and enjoyable for everyone.

When to Cook It

Chewy Banana Bread Cookies are ideal for various occasions, including weeknight dinners, casual celebrations, or simply as a sweet snack at home. They also make a delightful addition to lunchboxes or a tasty treat for after-school snacks, ensuring that there’s always something delicious on hand for family and friends.

2 ripe bananas, mashed (provides natural sweetness and moisture)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (adds richness and flavor)
1 cup brown sugar (for deep caramel notes; can substitute with coconut sugar)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (balances sweetness; can use all brown sugar if preferred)
1 large egg (binds ingredients together; can substitute with a flax egg for vegan option)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances flavor; optional but recommended)
1 teaspoon baking soda (helps cookies rise; can substitute with baking powder)
1/2 teaspoon salt (balances sweetness; essential for flavor)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (provides structure; can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional; adds crunch and flavor)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional; for a sweet, indulgent touch)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix until well combined, creating a smooth batter.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories; use sparingly as it is much sweeter than sugar.
Monk fruit: A zero-calorie sweetener that doesn’t raise blood sugar levels; can be used in equal amounts to sugar.
Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste and texture of sugar; use in a 1:1 ratio.

It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can still impact blood sugar levels significantly.

Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Wire rack for cooling

Use Overripe Bananas: Chef Julia Child always emphasized the importance of using very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness. The darker the banana, the better!
Chill the Dough: Renowned pastry chef Pierre Hermé suggests chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
Don’t Overmix: Chef Ina Garten advises mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle with your dough.
Experiment with Spices: Chef Yotam Ottolenghi loves adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile. A little spice can make a big difference!
Use Quality Chocolate: Pastry chef Jacques Torres recommends using high-quality chocolate chips for a richer taste. It’s worth the investment for that indulgent touch.

Room Temperature: Store Chewy Banana Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Using Underripe Bananas: Avoid using bananas that are not fully ripe, as they won’t provide the necessary sweetness and moisture for your cookies.
Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with your measurements. Use a kitchen scale for the best results.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. Baking at too high or too low can affect the texture and doneness of your cookies.
Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them helps them set properly. Rushing this step can lead to a crumbly texture.

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for Chewy Banana Bread Cookies?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Q: Are Chewy Banana Bread Cookies healthy?
It depends on your definition of healthy. They contain bananas, which add natural sweetness and nutrients, but they still have sugar and butter.

Q: Can I make Chewy Banana Bread Cookies without nuts?
Yes, you can easily omit the nuts or substitute them with other mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds.

Q: Do Chewy Banana Bread Cookies freeze well?
Yes, they freeze well! Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I add spices to my Chewy Banana Bread Cookies?
Yes, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor and make them even more delicious!

In conclusion, Chewy Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of banana bread in a fun, cookie form. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and can be customized to suit your taste. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your kitchen. If you loved these cookies, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share this recipe with your friends and family!

Chewy Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

Author: Goldie Clark
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Deliciously chewy cookies that combine the flavors of banana bread with the convenience of a cookie.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Feel free to substitute the walnuts and chocolate chips with your favorite mix-ins.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Chewy Banana Bread Cookies, Banana Cookies, Chewy Cookies