Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies combine the best of both worlds: the softness and flavor of banana bread with the convenience of a cookie. These cookies are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, bringing a delightful banana and oat flavor in each bite. The addition of walnuts and chocolate chips gives them a delightful crunch and sweetness, making them a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 1 large banana)
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix in the mashed banana until everything is well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the oats, walnuts, and chocolate chips, if using.
7. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and plant-based butter instead of the egg and dairy butter.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or plant-based butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: For a fresh-from-the-oven experience, warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats? Yes, but the texture might be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats will make the cookies softer.
2. What can I substitute for bananas? Applesauce or pumpkin puree can be used, but it will alter the flavor. Use the same amount as the mashed banana.
3. Can I make these cookies sugar-free? Yes, you can substitute granulated and brown sugar with sugar-free alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
4. Can I omit the cinnamon? Yes, but it adds a nice warm flavor. Feel free to leave it out or replace it with nutmeg or allspice.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done? The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. They continue to set as they cool.
6. Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Double the ingredients, and bake in batches as needed.
7. Can I make these cookies without butter? Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
8. How do I make the cookies crispier? Bake them for an extra 1-2 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers are firm.
9. Can I add other mix-ins? Yes, feel free to add dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even a dash of espresso powder for a different twist.
10. Why did my cookies turn out flat? This could be due to overmixing the dough or using overly ripe bananas. Ensure the butter is not melted and the dough is chilled for 15 minutes if needed.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful treat that bring the comforting taste of banana bread in a cookie form. Perfect for those who love soft, chewy cookies with a hint of banana and a touch of crunch from oats, nuts, and chocolate chips. Easy to customize and store, these cookies are a versatile and delicious option for any time of day. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, and don’t forget to try the variations for different flavor experiences!

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