Banana Bread Cookies

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Plate of soft banana bread cookies, freshly baked.

Banana bread cookies combine the rich, comforting flavors of banana bread with the chewy goodness of cookies. These soft, moist treats are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. They’re an excellent way to use overripe bananas, preventing waste while creating something delicious.

If you love banana bread but want a more portable, bite-sized version, these cookies are the answer. They capture the essence of banana bread—sweet, spiced, and irresistibly soft—while offering the convenience of a cookie.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making banana bread cookies, from choosing the right bananas to baking tips, storage, and fun variations. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll find plenty of useful information to create the perfect batch.

Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Cookies

Banana bread cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional loaf, offering the same cozy flavors in a convenient, handheld treat. If you’re still wondering whether to try them, here are a few reasons why these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

1. Soft and Chewy Texture

Unlike crispy or crunchy cookies, banana bread cookies are incredibly soft and moist, thanks to the natural moisture from mashed bananas. They have a cake-like texture that makes them feel like little bites of banana bread goodness.

2. Rich Banana Flavor

If you’re a banana lover, these cookies are perfect for you. They highlight the deep, caramelized sweetness of ripe bananas while balancing it with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

3. Great for Using Overripe Bananas

Have bananas sitting on the counter turning brown? Instead of tossing them, transform them into something delicious. Overripe bananas are actually ideal for baking because they bring out the best flavor and sweetness in these cookies.

4. Quick and Easy to Make

Banana bread cookies come together in just a few simple steps—mix, scoop, and bake. No complicated techniques or special equipment needed!

5. Customizable with Add-Ins

You can easily personalize banana bread cookies to match your taste. Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, oats, or even peanut butter for extra flavor and texture.

6. Perfect for Breakfast, Snacks, or Dessert

Since these cookies are soft and naturally sweet, they make a great breakfast-on-the-go, a midday snack, or a sweet treat after dinner. Pair them with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the ultimate comforting experience.

7. Kid-Friendly and Healthy Options

Kids love these cookies, and you can make them healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or adding protein-packed ingredients like Greek yogurt or nut butter.

These reasons make banana bread cookies an irresistible treat for any occasion. Ready to learn how to make them? Let’s start with the key ingredients you’ll need!

Enjoy these cookies as a quick breakfast, snack, or dessert! If you love banana-based treats, you might also want to try our Banana Brownies for a rich and fudgy twist.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Banana Bread Cookies

A plate with flour, surrounded by ripe bananas, eggs, butter, and milk—key ingredients for banana bread cookies.

To make the best banana bread cookies, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the right flavor and texture. Let’s break down what you need and why it’s important.

1. Bananas (The Star Ingredient!)

  • The key to flavorful banana bread cookies is using overripe bananas. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots or fully darkened peels for the best results.

2. Flour (For Structure)

  • All-purpose flour is the most commonly used, but you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
  • For gluten-free options, try almond flour or oat flour.

3. Sugar (For Sweetness and Texture)

  • Brown sugar is ideal because it adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
  • You can also use a mix of white sugar and brown sugar for balance.
  • If you want a healthier alternative, honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar can work as substitutes.

4. Butter or Oil (For Softness)

  • Unsalted butter gives these cookies a rich, buttery taste.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut oil, vegetable oil, or vegan butter.

5. Eggs (For Binding and Moisture)

  • Eggs help hold everything together and contribute to a soft, tender cookie texture.
  • For an egg-free version, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce.

6. Baking Powder and Baking Soda (For Rise and Texture)

  • A mix of baking powder and baking soda helps these cookies puff up slightly while keeping them soft and chewy.

7. Cinnamon and Nutmeg (For Warmth and Depth)

  • These spices enhance the banana flavor and give the cookies a comforting, bakery-style taste.
  • Feel free to add a dash of vanilla extract for extra richness.

8. Optional Add-Ins (For Extra Flavor and Texture)

  • Chocolate chips – For a sweet, melty addition.
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
  • Shredded coconut – Brings a tropical touch.
  • Oats – Makes them heartier and adds fiber.
  • Raisins or dried cranberries – Gives a chewy, fruity contrast.

Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to choosing the best bananas for baking!

For a simpler take on banana bread, check out our 3-Ingredient Banana Bread or 4-Ingredient Banana Bread for quick, delicious alternatives.

Choosing the Right Bananas for Banana Bread Cookies

The key to making the best banana bread cookies is using the right bananas. The ripeness of your bananas affects both the flavor and texture of your cookies. Let’s go over how to pick the perfect bananas for baking and what to do if they aren’t quite ready yet.

1. The Best Bananas for Baking

  • The ideal bananas for banana bread cookies are very ripe, soft, and covered in brown spots.
  • The darker the peel, the sweeter the banana! As bananas ripen, their starches break down into natural sugars, which enhances the flavor of your cookies.
  • Fully blackened bananas (as long as they are not moldy) are even better for baking, as they provide the most sweetness.

2. How to Ripen Bananas Faster

If your bananas aren’t ripe yet but you need them for baking, here are a few quick ways to speed up the ripening process:

Method 1: Brown Paper Bag Trick

  • Place bananas in a brown paper bag and fold the top closed.
  • Add an apple or ripe banana to the bag to release ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening.
  • Leave it at room temperature for 12-24 hours.

Method 2: Oven Ripening

  • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Place unpeeled bananas on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the skins turn black.
  • Let them cool before using.

Method 3: Microwave Quick Fix

  • Peel the bananas and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Microwave in 30-second intervals until soft and mashable.
  • This method works in a pinch but won’t develop as much natural sweetness.

3. How to Store Ripe Bananas for Later

If you have extra ripe bananas but aren’t ready to bake, freeze them for future use:

  • Peel the bananas before freezing (the peels turn black and become difficult to remove if frozen).
  • Place them in a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to use, thaw them at room temperature or microwave for 30 seconds.

Now that you know how to pick and prep the perfect bananas, let’s move on to the step-by-step banana bread cookie recipe!

Step-by-Step Recipe for Banana Bread Cookies

A plate with freshly mixed banana bread cookie dough, soft and ready for baking.

Now that we have the perfect bananas and ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making soft, chewy, and flavorful banana bread cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
  • ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
  • ¼ cup butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

  • ½ cup chocolate chips
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • ½ cup oats (for a heartier texture)
  • ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

  • In a mixing bowl, mash two ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  • A few small lumps are fine, but the bananas should be mostly pureed.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • Add brown sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas.
  • Whisk everything together until fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture.
  • Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.

Step 6: Add Your Mix-Ins (Optional)

  • If using chocolate chips, nuts, oats, or dried fruit, fold them into the batter at this stage.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough Onto the Baking Sheet

  • Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • Leave about 1 inch of space between each cookie.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops look set.
  • The cookies should be soft but not wet in the center.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!

  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  • Enjoy warm, or store them for later!

Bonus Tip: How to Make These Cookies Extra Special

  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an elegant finish.
  • Spread peanut butter on a cooled cookie for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Make sandwich cookies by spreading Nutella or cream cheese frosting between two cookies.

Now that you have the perfect recipe, let’s talk about ingredient swaps and variations!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about banana bread cookies is how versatile they are. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether you want a healthier version, a gluten-free option, or extra indulgence, here are some great swaps and variations to try!

1. Healthier Ingredient Swaps

If you’re looking to make your banana bread cookies more nutritious, try these substitutions:

  • Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or oat flour to add fiber.
  • Sugar: Use coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a more natural sweetener.
  • Butter: Replace butter with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt to reduce fat.
  • Egg: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan-friendly option.

2. Gluten-Free Banana Bread Cookies

For those avoiding gluten, try these substitutions:

  • Use almond flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
  • Make sure baking powder and baking soda are labeled gluten-free.

3. Vegan Banana Bread Cookies

To make these cookies completely plant-based, try this:

  • Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Use a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce instead of a regular egg.
  • Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips if adding chocolate.

4. Fun Flavor Variations

Want to get creative? Here are some fun ways to mix up your banana bread cookies!

Chocolate Lovers’ Banana Bread Cookies

  • Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate-banana twist.
  • Use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for extra indulgence.

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

  • Swirl in ¼ cup peanut butter to the wet ingredients for a nutty flavor.
  • Top with crushed peanuts for a crunchy texture.

Nutty Banana Bread Cookies

  • Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
  • Sprinkle toasted coconut on top before baking for a tropical twist.

Oatmeal Banana Bread Cookies

  • Replace ½ cup of flour with rolled oats for a chewier texture.
  • Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity contrast.

Fall-Inspired Spiced Banana Cookies

  • Add ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice for extra warmth.
  • Drizzle with maple glaze after baking for a cozy fall treat.

5. Low-Sugar or No-Sugar Options

Want to cut down on sugar? Try these tips:

  • Replace sugar with mashed dates or extra-ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
  • Use monk fruit sweetener or erythritol for a low-carb alternative.

With all these variations, you can customize banana bread cookies to suit your cravings and dietary needs! Now, let’s move on to some expert baking tips to make sure your cookies turn out perfect every time.

Baking Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Cookies

Baking banana bread cookies is easy, but a few expert tips can take them from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tricks and techniques to get soft, moist, and flavorful cookies every time!

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough

  • Why? Overmixing develops too much gluten, making cookies dense instead of soft.
  • Tip: Stir just until the ingredients are combined. A few streaks of flour are okay!

2. Use Super Ripe Bananas for the Best Flavor

  • The more brown spots or blackened the bananas, the better!
  • Tip: If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, bake them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes to bring out their sweetness.

3. Chill the Dough for Better Texture

  • Chilling helps prevent spreading and makes cookies chewier.
  • Tip: Let the dough rest in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking.

4. Keep an Eye on Baking Time

  • Banana bread cookies should be soft and slightly underbaked in the center.
  • Tip: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, but check at 10 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  • This ensures they all bake at the same rate.
  • Tip: A tablespoon-sized cookie scoop is perfect for uniform cookies.

6. Add Extra Texture on Top

  • Before baking, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, chopped nuts, or oats on top for extra crunch and flavor.

7. Let Cookies Cool on the Baking Sheet First

  • Banana bread cookies are soft when hot, so moving them too soon can break them.
  • Tip: Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

8. Store Properly to Keep Them Fresh

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate: Keeps fresh for a week in an airtight container.
  • Freeze: Store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months!

By following these baking tips, you’ll get soft, chewy banana bread cookies every single time. Now, let’s talk about how to store and reheat them properly!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Snoop Dogg cookies?

Snoop Dogg cookies typically refer to cookies inspired by the rapper Snoop Dogg, who is known for his love of cannabis-infused edibles. They may be cannabis-infused cookies or just flavorful homemade cookies from his cookbook From Crook to Cook. His recipes often include rich, indulgent ingredients like butter, vanilla, and chocolate chips, making them deliciously soft and chewy.

2. Is banana bread healthy or unhealthy?

Banana bread can be both healthy and unhealthy, depending on the ingredients used.

  • Healthier Banana Bread: Made with whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners (honey, maple syrup), and healthier fats like coconut oil or Greek yogurt, it can be a nutritious snack.
  • Unhealthy Banana Bread: Traditional banana bread recipes often include refined sugar, white flour, and butter, which increase calories and sugar content, making it more of a dessert than a health food.

To make banana bread healthier, try reducing sugar, using whole grains, and adding nuts or seeds for extra fiber and protein.

3. Why did my banana cookies turn green?

Banana cookies can turn green due to a reaction between baking soda and chlorogenic acid, a natural compound found in bananas. This is more common when using very ripe bananas and a higher amount of baking soda.

How to Prevent It:

  • Reduce baking soda slightly.
  • Add a little lemon juice or vinegar to balance the pH.
  • Use less ripe bananas if green coloring bothers you (though it’s harmless to eat!).

4. What is the secret ingredient to keep cookies soft?

The secret ingredient to keeping cookies soft is moisture-retaining ingredients, such as:

  • Brown sugar (contains more moisture than white sugar)
  • Cornstarch (helps create a softer texture)
  • Honey or molasses (adds natural moisture)
  • Extra egg yolk (fat from the yolk keeps cookies chewy)
  • Chilling the dough (prevents spreading and keeps cookies thick and soft)

For longer-lasting softness, store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread—the bread helps retain moisture without making the cookies soggy.

5. Can I use frozen bananas for baking?

Yes! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding to your dough.

6. How can I make banana bread cookies healthier?

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of white flour.
  • Swap butter for applesauce or Greek yogurt.
  • Reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Conclusion

Banana bread cookies are the perfect blend of soft, chewy, and full of banana flavor. They are a quick and easy way to enjoy the comforting taste of banana bread in bite-sized form. Whether you keep them classic, make them healthy, or load them with chocolate chips and nuts, they are guaranteed to be a hit!

Now that you have the perfect recipe, grab those ripe bananas and start baking!