Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe | Quick & Easy

Ever thought of using overripe bananas for a tasty treat? Learn how to make soft and chewy banana chocolate chip cookies in under 30 minutes. This recipe mixes the sweetness of bananas with chocolate chips, blending cookie and banana bread flavors.

These cookies are perfect for any home cook. They’re easy to make and help reduce food waste. You can quickly make a batch, bake them in under 16 minutes, and enjoy the amazing smell in your home!

Key Takeaways

• Make use of overripe bananas for a naturally sweet flavor.
• Prep time is only 10 minutes, making it quick and convenient.
• Baking these cookies at 350°F yields soft and chewy results.
• The recipe calls for just four main ingredients: bananas, butter, chocolate chips, and oats.
• Store cookies in an airtight container for freshness.
• Get creative with optional add-ins like nuts or raisins!
• This recipe is vegan and dairy-free.

The Best Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Discover the best banana chocolate chip cookies recipe you’ll ever try! It only needs a few simple ingredients. Ripe bananas make the cookies soft and chewy. The mix of banana sweetness and rich chocolate is a treat for every bite.

Overview of the Recipe

To make these cookies, start with ripe bananas, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, unsalted butter, and all-purpose flour. An egg helps the ingredients stick together. Vanilla extract adds a sweet touch that enhances the flavors.

Flavor Profile

The flavor of these cookies is amazing. You’ll taste the caramelized banana and chocolate together. Brown sugar adds a deep flavor, and nuts like pecans or walnuts add crunch. Baked at 350°F for 13 to 16 minutes, they’re soft and moist.

If you have extra ripe bananas on hand, you might also love our Quick Banana Bread Recipe with Cake Mix. It’s a super simple way to create a moist and delicious banana bread with minimal effort.

Why You Will Love These Cookies

Banana chocolate chip cookies are more than just a snack. They light up your taste buds and bring happiness with every bite. Their soft and chewy texture makes them a favorite for everyone. Let’s explore what makes these cookies so special!

Perfectly Soft and Chewy Texture

These cookies stand out for their soft and chewy texture. Using ½ cup of mashed ripe banana makes them moist and fluffy. After baking for less than 12 minutes, they become a comforting treat. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!

Balanced Sweetness from Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas add a natural delicious sweetness. They blend well with melted chocolate chips, enhancing the flavor. Since bananas have sugars, you don’t need to add too much. Each cookie has just 4g of sugar, making them a sweet treat without being too sweet.

Enjoying banana chocolate chip cookies is more than just satisfying your cravings. It’s about celebrating flavor and being mindful of what you eat. Keep a batch ready! They’re great for an after-school snack, an energy boost, or a cozy dessert at the end of the day.

Ingredients Needed for Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

To make delicious banana cookies, you need the right ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make these treats. You’ll also find some optional add-ins to make them even tastier.

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of softened butter: Choose high-quality butter for the best taste and texture.
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar: This adds the sweetness needed.
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar: Brown sugar makes the flavor richer.
• 1 large ripe banana: You’ll need about 1/2 cup of mashed banana. Choose bananas that are very ripe for more sweetness.
• 1 egg: Make sure it’s room temperature for better mixing.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: This adds a warm, comforting flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour: This is crucial for the right cookie texture.
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda: It’s important for making the cookies light.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Salt balances the sweetness.
• 3/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips: Good chocolate chips make the cookies taste better.

Optional Add-ins for Flavor Variations

The basic banana cookie recipe is great, but you can try some optional add-ins for different flavors:

• Chopped walnuts: They add a nice crunch and go well with banana.
• Cinnamon: A little ground cinnamon can make the cookies smell and taste better.
• Dark or white chocolate chips: Try different types of chocolate chips for a unique taste.
• Dried fruit: Raisins or cranberries can add sweetness and chewiness.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ingredients and add-ins. This way, you can make banana cookies that are truly your own!

How to Make Quick & Easy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking banana chocolate chip cookies is easy and fun. Let’s get started with the steps to make these tasty treats!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add 1/2 cup of softened plant-based butter, 1/2 cup of white granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of light brown sugar. Mix until creamy.
4. Include 1 egg yolk and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Blend well.
5. In another bowl, mix 1 1/3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp of baking soda, 2 tsp of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Add this dry mix to the wet ingredients.
6. Fold in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips until they’re spread out evenly.
7. Scoop the dough into balls of about 3 tablespoons each. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
8. Bake for 11-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Tips for Mixing and Baking

When making banana chocolate chip cookies, gently fold the ingredients. This keeps the cookies soft and chewy. Check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time. Remember, every oven is different, so you might need to adjust the baking time.

Here’s a fun tip: freeze extra cookie dough scoops. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want!

Preparing the Dough Ahead of Time

Want to enjoy tasty banana cookies without spending hours in the kitchen? Preparing the dough ahead of time is a great idea. It lets the flavors mix well and gives you the freedom to bake whenever you like. Let’s explore how to chill and freeze the cookie dough.

How to Chill Dough

Chilling the dough is key for the perfect texture. Let your banana cookie dough chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This step makes the cookies thicker and keeps their shape when baked. Just wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. You’ll see a big difference in the taste and texture!

Freezing the Cookie Dough

Freezing the dough is perfect if you want cookies anytime. You can freeze it for up to 6 months. This way, you can bake fresh cookies whenever you want! Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them, and then put them in a freezer bag. Make sure to label it so you know when you froze it.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies

Baking banana chocolate chip cookies requires careful attention. Choosing the right bananas and timing are crucial. Let’s dive into these tips for delicious cookies every time.

Choosing the Right Bananas

For the best cookies, pick bananas that are ripe but not too brown. Bananas with a few brown spots are perfect. They add sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.

Using ripe bananas improves the taste and texture. This balance is key for a great cookie with chocolate chips.

Timing for Baking

Getting the baking time right is essential. Bake for 13 to 16 minutes for a chewy center and golden edges. Rotate the baking sheets halfway to avoid hot spots.

Following these tips ensures your cookies are perfectly baked. They won’t be too dry or undercooked.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Baking banana cookies can be healthier without losing flavor. You can add gluten-free options and less sugar. This makes your treats tasty and good for you.

Making it Gluten-Free

It’s easy to make banana chocolate chip cookies gluten-free. Just swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps the cookies soft and healthy.

Quick-cooking oats are another great choice. They make the cookies chewy and are gluten-free. So, everyone can enjoy them.

Lowering Sugar Content

Try using honey or pure maple syrup instead of sugar. These natural sweeteners add flavor and nutrients. They’re a healthier alternative.

Also, use very ripe bananas for sweetness. They cut down the need for extra sugar. This way, your cookies are sweet and good for you.

Looking to add variety to your cookie lineup? Our Homemade Windmill Cookies are an ideal choice. With a spiced, crispy texture, they make a unique complement to these banana chocolate chip cookies.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Banana cookies are not just tasty; they’re also great for any event. With a few easy tips, you can make your treats even more special. Enjoy them alone or with other snacks, and you’ll find something you love.

Best Pairings for Your Cookies

Here are some ways to make your banana cookies even better:

• A tall glass of cold milk is a classic and refreshing choice.
• Warm vanilla ice cream adds a sweet touch.
• Chopped nuts or chocolate syrup add extra flavor and texture.
• Fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, offers a fruity contrast.

Storing and Reheating Cookies

Keeping your banana cookies fresh is easy. Just follow these steps:

• Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This keeps their texture perfect.
• Freeze cookies for up to three months. Wrap each one tightly before freezing.
• Thaw frozen cookies overnight in the fridge.

Reheating can make them taste like they just came out of the oven:

• Warm cookies in the microwave for about 30 seconds on high.
• Use an air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes for a warm treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baking chocolate chip cookies can be a fun experience. Let’s look at some common questions about them. We’ll share tips to get the perfect texture and keep them fresh.

What makes chocolate chip cookies not flat?

To stop cookies from spreading too much, use the right amount of flour. It’s important to measure it correctly. Too little flour can make cookies flat. Also, chilling the dough for at least 10 minutes helps keep their shape.

Why do chocolate chip cookies spread too much?

Cookies spread because of soft butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is at room temperature but not melted. Also, gently flatten the dough before baking to help keep its shape.

How long do homemade chocolate chip cookies stay fresh?

Homemade cookies can stay fresh for about five days at room temperature. To keep them fresh longer, store them in an airtight container. This can extend their freshness to a week in the fridge.

How do you keep chocolate chip cookies soft and fresh?

To keep cookies soft, store them in an airtight container. Adding a slice of bread can help keep them moist. Freezing the cookies or the dough can keep them fresh for up to four months!

Conclusion

Baking banana chocolate chip cookies is a joy like no other. This easy recipe lets you make delicious treats quickly. It’s great for spending time with family or friends.

With just a few ingredients, you’ll mix flavors that bring comfort and nostalgia. It’s perfect for any occasion.

These cookies have become a hit, even more so during the quarantine. The mix of ripe bananas and chocolate chips is irresistible. It will make everyone happy!

So, why not try this recipe? You’ll have fun baking and sharing these warm cookies with loved ones. They’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

For a quick and indulgent treat to pair with these cookies, try our The Best Oreo Mug Cake Recipe in 5 Minutes. It’s a single-serving dessert that’s rich and satisfying, perfect when you’re craving something sweet in a hurry.