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If you are a fan of banana bread and cookies, then you will love the combination of the two in banana bread cookies. This recipe takes the classic flavors of banana bread and turns them into a portable and delicious treat that you can enjoy any time of day.
Banana bread cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with banana flavor. They are made with mashed bananas, butter, sugar, flour, and a few other pantry staples. Some recipes also include chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins to add even more texture and flavor.
Making banana bread cookies is easy and requires only a few simple steps. You can have a batch of warm, fresh cookies ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you are looking for a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to share with friends and family, banana bread cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
When it comes to making banana bread cookies, there are a few essential ingredients that you will need to have on hand. In this section, we will break down the necessary wet and dry ingredients, as well as some optional add-ins that can help take your cookies to the next level.
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients are responsible for adding moisture and flavor to your cookies. The following are the essential wet ingredients you will need:
- Ripe bananas: The star ingredient of banana bread cookies, mashed ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to your cookies.
- Butter: Softened unsalted butter adds richness and flavor to your cookies.
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind the ingredients together and add structure to your cookies.
- Vanilla extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a warm and comforting flavor to your cookies.
Dry Ingredients
The dry ingredients are responsible for providing structure and texture to your cookies. The following are the essential dry ingredients you will need:
- All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour is the base of your cookie dough and provides structure.
- Baking powder: Baking powder helps your cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
If you want to add some extra flavor and texture to your banana bread cookies, you can try adding some of the following optional add-ins:
- Chocolate chips: Chocolate chips add a sweet and decadent touch to your cookies.
- Walnuts or pecans: Chopped nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to your cookies.
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon can add warmth and depth to your cookies.
By using the right combination of wet and dry ingredients, as well as some optional add-ins, you can create delicious and satisfying banana bread cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
To make these delicious banana bread cookies, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. Here is a list of the equipment you will need:
- Mixing bowls: You will need at least two mixing bowls – one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients. It is important to keep them separate to ensure even mixing.
- Electric mixer: You can use either a stand mixer or a hand mixer to mix the ingredients. An electric mixer will make the process faster and easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons: It is important to measure the ingredients accurately to get the perfect texture and taste.
- Baking sheet: You will need a baking sheet to bake the cookies. Make sure it is lined with parchment paper or a non-stick spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Oven: You will need an oven to bake the cookies. Preheat the oven to the required temperature before baking.
- Cooling rack: After baking the cookies, you will need a cooling rack to cool them down. This will prevent them from getting soggy.
Overall, the equipment needed to make banana bread cookies is basic and can be found in most kitchens. Make sure to gather all the necessary equipment before starting to make the cookies to ensure a smooth baking process.
Preparation Steps
Mixing Instructions
To make delicious banana bread cookies, you will need to follow these easy mixing instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat shortening and white sugar with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Beat in banana, eggs, and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Fold in any additional ingredients such as chocolate chips or nuts.
Baking Guidelines
After you have mixed your ingredients, it’s time to bake your banana bread cookies. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
By following these simple mixing and baking instructions, you can make delicious banana bread cookies that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread cookies are a delicious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. They are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy your cookies:
- Serve with a glass of milk for a classic combination.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- Pack them in a lunchbox for a delicious and nutritious snack.
Storage Tips
To keep your banana bread cookies fresh and delicious, it is important to store them properly. Here are some tips for storing your cookies:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place in an airtight container or freezer bag and label with the date.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your banana bread cookies whenever you want, and they will always be fresh and delicious.
Nutritional Information
If you’re looking for a healthier version of cookies, then banana bread cookies are a great option. They are made with natural ingredients and are free from refined sugars, making them a healthier snack choice.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for banana bread cookies:
- Calories: Depending on the recipe, each cookie can range from 100-200 calories.
- Fat: Banana bread cookies are typically low in fat, with most recipes containing less than 10 grams of fat per serving.
- Carbohydrates: The main source of carbohydrates in banana bread cookies comes from the bananas and any added sweeteners. Most recipes contain around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
- Fiber: Banana bread cookies are a good source of fiber, with most recipes containing at least 2-3 grams per serving.
- Protein: While not a significant source of protein, banana bread cookies do contain some protein from the flour and any added nuts or seeds.
Overall, banana bread cookies can be a healthy snack option when made with natural ingredients and consumed in moderation. They can be a great alternative to traditional cookies that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to ensure banana bread cookies stay moist?
To ensure that your banana bread cookies stay moist, you should store them in an airtight container. You can also add an extra banana or a tablespoon of applesauce to the recipe to increase the moisture content.
How can I adapt a traditional banana bread recipe to make cookies?
To adapt a traditional banana bread recipe to make cookies, you will need to adjust the cooking time and temperature. Cookies cook faster than bread, so you will need to reduce the cooking time and increase the temperature. You may also need to adjust the ratio of wet to dry ingredients to get the right consistency.
What are the key ingredients for a simple banana bread cookie recipe?
The key ingredients for a simple banana bread cookie recipe are bananas, oats, and peanut butter. These three ingredients are all you need to make a delicious and healthy cookie.
How do I incorporate chocolate chips into banana bread cookies?
To incorporate chocolate chips into banana bread cookies, simply fold them into the batter before baking. You can also sprinkle them on top of the cookies before baking for a more decorative effect.
Can banana bread cookies be made with just three ingredients?
Yes, banana bread cookies can be made with just three ingredients: bananas, oats, and peanut butter. This simple recipe is perfect for those who want a healthy and easy-to-make snack.
What are some tips for making healthier banana bread cookies?
To make healthier banana bread cookies, you can substitute some of the ingredients for healthier options. For example, you can use almond butter instead of peanut butter, and add some chopped nuts or seeds for extra protein. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.