Are you craving a delightful snack that's not just tasty but also incredibly easy to make? This easy banana cookie recipe is perfect for those looking to bake simple yet delicious treats without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, these banana cookies will impress with their moist texture and sweet, rich flavor. Let's delve into the steps of preparing these delightful morsels!
Ingredients
To embark on this culinary adventure, gather these essential ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
- 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Take the ripe bananas and mash them well in a medium-sized bowl. Ensure they’re quite smooth, though small lumps are fine as they add a nice texture to the banana cookies.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. This mixture will provide the structure to your cookies.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the texture of your cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the mashed banana, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra treat.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is still a bit soft.
Step 8: Cooling
Let the banana cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps to set the cookies and ensures they won’t crumble.
💡 Note: If the cookies are too soft when they come out of the oven, they will firm up as they cool.
Tips for Perfect Banana Cookies
- Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor. The riper, the better!
- Do not overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the desired soft, chewy texture.
- Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes if you have time. This helps to prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick and chewy.
In wrapping up, this banana cookie recipe offers a fantastic opportunity to turn overripe bananas into a delightful baking experience. Not only are these cookies easy to make, but they also offer a unique taste that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the comforting warmth of a traditional cookie. Whether it's for a snack, a treat for guests, or just because you deserve a little indulgence, these cookies are sure to satisfy.
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas, but ensure to mash them well to remove any excess liquid, which might make the dough too wet.
What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
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You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even leave them plain for a classic taste. The possibilities are endless!
How long do these banana cookies last?
+When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will last for about 3-4 days. Refrigeration can extend their freshness.
