The Best Banana Bread Cookies (6 Ingredients!)

Banana bread cookies are the perfect blend of soft, chewy, and sweet, combining the comforting flavors of banana bread into a convenient cookie form. With just six simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible treats in no time. Whether you’re craving something sweet or looking for a snack to share with friends and family, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These banana bread cookies are a unique twist on classic banana bread, offering all the same delicious flavors in a cookie form. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make with only six ingredients! With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the comforting texture of banana bread, these cookies are soft, chewy, and satisfying. Plus, they’re great for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup of oats
• 1/2 cup of peanut butter (or your favorite nut butter)
• 1/4 cup of chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp of cinnamon (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add the oats, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-15 cookies
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Bake time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

1. Add-ins: Feel free to get creative by adding in your favorite mix-ins, such as raisins, chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans), or shredded coconut.
2. Flavor Twist: Swap the peanut butter for almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
3. Vegan Option: To make these cookies vegan, ensure you use a dairy-free chocolate chip and opt for a plant-based peanut butter.
4. Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to add a warm, aromatic touch to your cookies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store these banana bread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them up in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots on the peel. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful the cookies will be.

Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, you can substitute instant oats, though old-fashioned oats will give the cookies a slightly chewier texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Use certified gluten-free oats to make these cookies gluten-free.

What can I use if I don’t have peanut butter?

You can substitute any nut butter, such as almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies will be golden brown around the edges when they are done. They should still feel soft to the touch but will firm up as they cool.

Can I add more sugar to the recipe?

Since the bananas are naturally sweet, there’s no need to add extra sugar. However, if you prefer sweeter cookies, feel free to add a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Yes, these cookies are a great snack for kids, especially with their simple, wholesome ingredients.

Can I use almond flour instead of oats?

Unfortunately, almond flour won’t provide the same texture as oats. Oats are necessary for the cookie’s structure, so it’s best to stick with them for this recipe.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and follow the same directions for baking.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop out the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze it before transferring the dough balls to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, place them directly on a baking sheet and bake as usual.

Conclusion

These banana bread cookies are the perfect way to enjoy the comforting taste of banana bread in a fun and easy-to-make cookie form. With just six simple ingredients, they come together in a flash and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen

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