Table of Contents
Introduction
Ever find yourself with a couple of overripe bananas sitting on the counter, just waiting to be used? Instead of making the usual banana bread, why not try something different this Simple Banana Cookies Recipe! These soft, chewy cookies are packed with natural sweetness and a hint of warm spice, making them perfect for a quick snack, breakfast treat, or even a healthier dessert option.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or special skills just a mixing bowl, some ripe bananas, and a few pantry staples. Whether you love banana oatmeal cookies for a heartier texture or want to add chocolate chips for a banana chocolate chip cookies twist, this recipe is easy to customize to your taste.
So, if you’re craving a homemade treat that’s both delicious and effortless, keep reading. You’re about to discover the easiest way to turn those ripe bananas into something truly irresistible!
✔️ Quick & Easy: No fancy ingredients or complicated steps just mix, bake, and enjoy!
✔️ Naturally Sweetened: Ripe bananas add a rich, natural sweetness, reducing the need for excess sugar.
✔️ Soft & Chewy: Perfectly moist on the inside with a delicate crisp on the edges.
✔️ Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or oats to suit your taste.
✔️ Healthy Alternative: Make them with whole wheat flour or oats for a fiber-rich snack.
Ingredients for Simple Banana Cookies Recipe
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier version)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better!)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Mix-ins:
- ½ cup chocolate chips (for Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies variation)
- ½ cup rolled oats (for Banana Oatmeal Cookies twist)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for extra crunch)
How to Make Simple Banana Cookies Recipe
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the Simple Banana Cookies Recipe with ease!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing!
- Fold in any optional mix-ins, like chocolate chips or oats.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Pro Tips & Variations for the Best Simple Banana Cookies Recipe
✔️ Use Overripe Bananas: The more ripe and speckled, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
✔️ Chill the Dough: If you want a thicker cookie, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
✔️ Make it Vegan: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
✔️ Gluten-Free Option: Use oat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
✔️ Enhance the Flavor: A pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of honey can take these cookies to the next level.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Banana Cookies Recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways!
- With a cup of coffee or tea: Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack.
- As a breakfast treat: Pair with Greek yogurt for a wholesome start to the day.
- With ice cream: Turn them into banana cookie sandwiches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- On-the-go snack: Pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy, homemade option.
Conclusion
This Simple Banana Cookies Recipe is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated! With just a few pantry staples and some ripe bananas, you can create a batch of soft, chewy, and utterly delicious cookies. Whether you keep them classic or customize them with chocolate, oats, or nuts, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy every bite!
FAQs
1. Can I store these cookies for later?
Absolutely! Store your Simple Banana Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.
2. Can I freeze banana cookies?
Yes! Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
3. Why are my banana cookies too soft?
If they turn out too soft, they might have too much moisture. Try adding an extra tablespoon of flour or baking them a minute longer.
4. Can I make this recipe without sugar?
Yes! The bananas provide natural sweetness, but you can also use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative.
5. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in your Simple Banana Cookies Recipe.
Now it’s your turn! Bake a batch of this Simple Banana Cookies Recipe, and let me know how they turn out. Happy baking!