Name: Banana Bread Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

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Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

These cookies offer the warm, nostalgic flavor of banana bread in a fun, handheld version. They’re quick to prepare, use everyday ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips. Whether you’re looking to use up ripe bananas or simply want a cozy, sweet treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

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

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if using.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per cookie

Variations

Nut-Free: Omit walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Vegan: Replace the butter with plant-based butter, the egg with a flax egg, and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more autumnal spice profile.
Frosted: Top cooled cookies with a light cream cheese glaze for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy warm, reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for these cookies?

The riper the bananas, the better. Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature slightly before scooping.

Are these cookies supposed to be soft?

Yes, they are soft and chewy, similar to the texture of banana bread.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

Can I substitute whole wheat flour?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

Try white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, dried cranberries, or raisins.

Why did my cookies come out flat?

Overmixing or using overly warm butter can cause cookies to spread. Make sure your butter is softened, not melted.

Can I make these without cinnamon or nutmeg?

Yes, but they enhance the flavor. You can reduce or omit them based on preference.

Are these cookies good for kids?

Definitely. They’re soft, mildly sweet, and easy for little hands to enjoy.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well if you’re baking for a crowd or want to freeze extra.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining everything you love about banana bread in a fun, easy-to-make cookie. Perfect for any season, they’re a sweet and satisfying treat that’s sure to become a go-to in your baking rotation.