These banana bread cookies are soft, chewy, and super easy to make! With just six simple ingredients, you won’t believe how delicious they can be.
I love how the sweet bananas make the cookies extra tasty, and they’re perfect for using up those ripe ones hanging out on your counter. A win-win! 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: Bananas are the star of these cookies! Use ones with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness. If you’re out of bananas, you can use 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce as a substitute to keep the moisture.
All-purpose Flour: Standard flour works great here, but if you need a gluten-free option, try substituting with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had good results with it!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is fine, but I usually opt for brown sugar for its rich flavor. You can cut back the sugar by a couple of tablespoons if you want them less sweet, or use honey or maple syrup instead—just adjust the flour slightly if you do!
Unsalted Butter: This adds fat and flavor. You can swap it out for coconut oil or a vegan butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just remember to melt the coconut oil first!
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Don’t Overmix?
A key thing with cookie dough is to mix gently after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing makes the cookies tough because it develops gluten in the flour. Here’s a quick tip:
- Mix until no flour streaks remain—this usually takes just a few folds.
- If adding extras like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently with a spatula after combining the wet and dry ingredients.
Taking your time here will ensure your banana bread cookies stay soft and chewy!
Easy Banana Bread Cookies with 6 Simple Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar (granulated or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of salt, cinnamon, or chopped nuts/chocolate chips for extra flavor
Time Needed:
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 12-15 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy treat to enjoy. Grab your ripe bananas and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you put your cookies in. While heating, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mash the Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them up until they’re smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cookies will be. A fork works great for this!
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add the softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. A whisk or a spoon will do just fine!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt (if you choose to use it). Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution before adding to the wet mixture.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Together:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Remember, we want soft cookies, so be careful not to overmix!
6. Add Extras (Optional):
If you like, fold in some cinnamon, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your cookies.
7. Scoop the Dough:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each scoop so the cookies have room to spread as they bake.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’re looking for golden edges and set centers—the smell will be amazing!
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your soft, chewy banana bread cookies made with just six simple ingredients!
Happy baking!
FAQ for Easy Banana Bread Cookies
Can I Use Overripe Bananas?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas work best as they are sweeter and have a softer texture, making them easier to mash. Just make sure they are still safe to eat, with no signs of mold.
Can I Substitute the Butter?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil, vegetable oil, or even a dairy-free butter alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. If using coconut oil, be sure to melt it first before mixing it with the other wet ingredients.
How to Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them! Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Just remember to adjust the flour slightly if you’re adding a lot of extra ingredients to keep the right texture!
Enjoy baking your delicious banana bread cookies! 😊
