What are banana cookies made of?

by
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Introduction

Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked banana cookies wafting through the kitchen? These delightful treats are more than just cookies—they’re a comforting reminder of home, childhood, and the joy of simple pleasures. The inspiration behind this recipe comes from my love of turning overripe bananas into something magical. Instead of the usual banana bread, why not try something a little different? These banana cookies are perfect for busy parents, students, and anyone looking for a quick, delicious snack that’s easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Banana cookies

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These banana cookies are everything you could want in a cookie—soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. The natural sweetness of the bananas shines through, complemented by the perfect blend of spices. Whether you like your cookies crispy on the edges or soft all the way through, this recipe can do it all. Best of all, they come together in no time, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or a quick snack.

  • Taste: The banana flavor is rich and naturally sweet.
  • Texture: Depending on how you bake them, they can be soft and chewy or crispy.
  • Ease: With just a few simple steps, these cookies are ready in under 30 minutes.

 

3. What Are Banana Cookies Made Of?

Banana cookies are made from simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The key ingredients include ripe bananas, butter, sugar, flour, and a few spices. Here’s a closer look at what goes into making these delightful cookies:

  • Bananas: The star of the show, ripe bananas add moisture and natural sweetness.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps the cookies spread perfectly.
  • Sugar: A mix of brown and white sugar creates a balanced sweetness.
  • Flour: The base that gives the cookies their structure.
  • Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to the flavor.
  • Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These leavening agents give the cookies a light, fluffy texture.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of the cookies, making them irresistibly delicious.

 

4. The Best Bananas for Baking

When it comes to baking banana cookies, the riper the bananas, the better. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots or even fully brown. These bananas are not only easier to mash but also sweeter, which enhances the flavor of your cookies. If your bananas aren’t ripe yet, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or storing them in a warm place.

Pro Tip: Freeze overripe bananas to use later. Just thaw them before using them in your recipe!

 

5. Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make these banana cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

 

6. Recommended Tools For Banana Cookies

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (optional)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper

These tools will make the process smooth and ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

 

7. How to Make Banana Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to create your banana cookies:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Bring It All Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the walnuts or chocolate chips if using.
  5. Scoop and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  6. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

8. Variations and Add-Ins

Here are some fun ways to customize your banana cookies:

  • Chocolate Lovers: Add a cup of chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a deeper, more complex flavor.
  • Healthy Twist: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a fiber boost.

 

9. Tips for Success For Banana Cookies

Here are a few tips to help you make the best banana cookies possible:

  • Measure Accurately: Too much flour can make your cookies dense. Spoon and level your flour for the best results.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor. They should be soft and heavily spotted.

 

10. Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Should cookies made with bananas be refrigerated? No, store them at room temperature in an airtight container.
  • What else can I do with overripe bananas? Try making banana chocolate chip cookies, muffins, or even pancakes.

 

11. How to Store and Freeze Banana Cookies

  • Storing: Store your banana cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

 

12. Full Recipe Card

Here’s a quick reference for your banana cookies recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream butter and sugars, add eggs, bananas, and vanilla.
  3. Mix dry ingredients separately, then combine with wet ingredients.
  4. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
  5. Scoop dough onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Cool on wire racks.

13. Nutrition Information

Each cookie contains approximately:

  • 200 calories
  • 10g fat
  • 27g carbohydrates
  • 2g protein
  • 15g sugar

These cookies are a sweet treat that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

14. Conclusion

Banana cookies are a delightful way to start your morning or enjoy as a snack throughout the day. With their rich banana flavor and soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out more breakfast ideas on Tonya Recipes. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media and subscribe for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

 

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