A Cozy Twist on a Classic Treat Everyone Will Love!

Ready to transform a humble ripe banana into a batch of soft, cake-like cookies the whole family will adore? These Banana Bread Cookies are your new go-to treat when you’re craving something sweet, simple, and satisfying. They’re easy to make with just a few pantry staples, perfect for sharing, and bake up in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re a banana bread fan or just looking for a no-fuss cookie recipe, this one’s for you.

Let’s dive in and bake up something truly comforting and delicious!

Introduction

Banana bread is a beloved classic, known for its moist crumb and nostalgic flavor. But what if we told you that you could enjoy all the same warm, sweet flavors in a cookie form? That’s exactly what Banana Bread Cookies deliver—a portable, soft-baked version of your favorite banana bread.

These cookies are ideal for:

• Using up overripe bananas
• Quick baking sessions
• Lunchbox treats
• Afternoon coffee breaks

With a light golden crust and soft, tender center, they strike the perfect balance between cookie and cake. Plus, they require no eggs, just a handful of ingredients, and zero special equipment.

Tools, Serving Size & Cooking Time

Tools Needed:

• 1 medium mixing bowl
• 1 small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork (for mashing and mixing)
• Rubber spatula or spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Serves:

Makes approximately 12–14 cookies, depending on the size.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Bake Time:

8–10 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these delicious Banana Bread Cookies:

• 1 ripe banana (the riper, the better for natural sweetness and flavor)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup melted butter (unsalted is best)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional add-ins:

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• A handful of chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy and prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork or whisk until smooth. It should be lump-free and creamy.

Next, add the granulated sugar and melted butter to the banana mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and you have a smooth, slightly glossy batter.

Tip: If using vanilla extract or cinnamon, stir them in at this stage.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed, helping the cookies rise uniformly.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined.

Avoid overmixing. Overworking the dough can make your cookies tough. The batter should be soft and slightly sticky—similar to a thick cake batter.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes. The cookies are ready when the edges turn a light golden brown and the tops are just set. They should remain soft in the center.

Note: Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your cookies.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

These cookies are delicious as-is, but feel free to dust with a little powdered sugar for an extra-special touch.

Recommendations for Banana Bread Cookie Success

To make sure your Banana Bread Cookies turn out perfect every time, here are a few key tips:

1. Use a Very Ripe Banana

The more brown spots, the better! Overripe bananas add moisture, natural sweetness, and deep flavor.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together just until they’re combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cookie.

3. Mind the Bake Time

These cookies bake quickly. Keep an eye on them during the last couple minutes of baking. You want the edges lightly golden and the centers just set.

4. Customize with Add-ins

Enhance your cookies by adding:

• A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped walnuts or pecans
• Mini chocolate chips

These mix-ins give your cookies a personalized twist and additional texture.

5. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

If possible, let your melted butter cool slightly and avoid adding it while piping hot. This prevents cooking the banana and keeps your dough from getting greasy.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Ideas:

• Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist
• Pack in lunchboxes as a fun surprise

How to Store:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: They can last up to 5–6 days in the fridge. Warm them slightly before serving for the best texture.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Thaw the banana completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. This prevents the dough from being too wet.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

3. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to ⅓ cup if you prefer a less sweet cookie, especially if your banana is very ripe.

4. Why are my cookies flat?

If your cookies spread too much, your butter may have been too hot or your dough too wet. Try chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking next time.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! This recipe scales well. Simply double all ingredients and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cookies are the perfect way to bring the comforting flavor of banana bread into bite-sized, easy-to-enjoy treats. With minimal ingredients, quick prep, and a soft, tender bite every time, this recipe is a keeper—ideal for weekday baking, family treats, or using up that lonely ripe banana on your counter.

Whether you keep them classic or add your own flair, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Try baking a batch today and share the love with friends, family, or coworkers. Soft, sweet, and full of banana goodness—these cookies may just become your next go-to treat!