Introduction
Banana chocolate chip cookies are the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, combining the best of banana bread and classic chocolate chip cookies. These soft, chewy treats are versatile enough to enjoy as a breakfast option or as a satisfying snack any time of the day. At Tonya Recipes, we believe in making cooking simple, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone, and this recipe embodies that philosophy. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who loves a delicious homemade treat, these banana chocolate chip cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies?
The combination of bananas and chocolate chips in baking is a match made in heaven. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with the rich, decadent flavor of chocolate, creating a cookie that’s both satisfying and delightful. Bananas are also packed with nutritional benefits, offering a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamins. The result is a cookie that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and texture—crispy on the outside, yet soft and moist on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (115g) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120g) mashed ripe bananas (about 1 medium banana)
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (175g) semisweet chocolate chips
Substitutions and Variations:
- For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Gather all ingredients and equipment.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
Forming the Dough
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling and Serving
- Let the cookies cool completely for the best texture.
- Serve with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea for a perfect pairing.
Tips for Perfect Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
- To keep the cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread.
- Adjust the sweetness by using more or less ripe bananas. The riper the banana, the sweeter the cookie.
- Experiment with extra flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chopped nuts for a personalized twist.
Variations of the Recipe
- Banana Bread-Style Cookies: Add an extra 1/4 cup of mashed bananas and reduce the flour by 1/4 cup for a more banana bread-like texture.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Adaptations: Use the substitutions listed above to make these cookies suitable for any diet.
- Seasonal Variations: Incorporate pumpkin spice in the fall or citrus zest in the spring for a seasonal touch.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Storage: Keep the cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the dough in portioned scoops or the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake or enjoy as desired.
FAQs About Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Why does chocolate and banana go together?
Chocolate and banana are a classic combination because their flavors complement each other perfectly. The rich, sweet taste of chocolate enhances the natural sweetness and subtle tartness of bananas, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent.
What are banana cookies made of?
Banana cookies are typically made with ripe bananas, butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and chocolate chips. These ingredients create a soft, moist cookie with a rich banana flavor and the delightful addition of melted chocolate.
Are grandma cookies soft?
Yes, grandma-style cookies are often soft, chewy, and packed with nostalgic flavors. These cookies are typically made with simple, wholesome ingredients and have a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
What makes cookies soft vs. crispy?
The texture of cookies, whether soft or crispy, depends on the ratio of ingredients and baking time. Soft cookies usually have more moisture, achieved by using more brown sugar, butter, and a shorter baking time. Crispy cookies, on the other hand, have less moisture, often achieved by using more granulated sugar and baking for a longer time at a lower temperature.
Conclusion
These banana chocolate chip cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With their simplicity and versatility, they are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. We invite you to share your baking experience with us on social media, and don’t forget to explore more breakfast recipes on our blog!
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