Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 27-30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
When you think of indulgent treats that are both comforting and delicious, banana bread and chocolate chip cookies often rise to the top of the list. Now imagine combining those two classics into one irresistible dessert. That’s exactly what the Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies bring to your kitchen. They are easy to make, incredibly soft, and gooey in the center. Whether you are a busy parent looking for something to whip up during the week or a novice baker wanting to impress your friends and family, this recipe is for you. You’ll be delighted by their wonderful aroma as they bake and how perfectly they blend the rich flavors of bananas and chocolate.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about making these delightful cookies. From selecting the best ingredients to baking tips that guarantee success, you will turn out cookies that are not just good but amazing. Get ready to explore variations that suit your dietary needs and learn how to store leftovers so that nothing goes to waste. Let’s dive in!
What Is Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe – Easy Soft & Gooey Treats?
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful mash-up of two beloved baked goods, pulling the soft, moist texture of banana bread into cookie form while adding the gooey goodness of chocolate chips. Originating from the trend of reinventing classic recipes, these cookies capture the essence of what makes banana bread special: its rich banana flavor and tender crumb.
Texture-wise, they are soft and chewy, with a hint of a crispy exterior that gives way to a satisfyingly gooey center. The key ingredients, ripe bananas and chocolate chips, elevate these cookies into a vibrant treat full of flavor and richness. The wonderful thing about this recipe is it makes excellent use of overripe bananas, which not only adds sweetness but also moisture, creating an incredible melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s a win-win, especially for those who dread discarding those brown bananas sitting on the countertop.
The marrying of flavors is what truly makes this treat sing. The bananas offer a naturally sweet and fruity taste that harmonizes beautifully with the rich bitterness of chocolate. Because these components blend so well, each bite is a little piece of heaven. So, if you’re looking for a comforting yet trendy treat, look no further than this Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe.
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons to love these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. Firstly, they are packed with flavor and comfort, making them an absolute treat for any occasion. The combination of banana and chocolate not only elevates the taste but also makes you feel good about indulging. These cookies are perfect for kids and adults alike, whether it’s for a birthday, a cozy family movie night, or simply a relaxing afternoon snack.
In terms of ease, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it suitable for both beginner and seasoned bakers. You won’t need fancy equipment; all you need is a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and the right ingredients. On top of that, they are economical to make, especially if you utilize those overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste.
Another benefit is their versatility. You can easily customize them with your favorite nuts, spices, or even add a dash of peanut butter for an additional flavor twist. Many people worry about cookies being loaded with sugar and calories, but using ripe bananas offers natural sweetness, allowing you to cut back on added sugars for a slightly healthier alternative.
These cookies also store exceptionally well, making them a convenient option for meal prep or easy treats throughout the week. The moistness from the bananas helps keep the cookies soft even after a few days, leaving you with bakery-quality treats at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ripe Bananas: About 2-3 medium-sized bananas, mashed. The riper, the better, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, for structure and body. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup, to balance the flavors and enhance sweetness.
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, adds moisture and a rich caramel-like flavor to the cookies.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened for a creamy texture. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Egg: 1 large, this helps in binding the cookies together and adds richness.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, acts as a leavening agent for a light cookie.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, for aromatic depth.
- Chocolate Chips: 1 cup, use semisweet or dark chocolate for an extra rich finish. Feel free to substitute with white chocolate or nuts for a different texture.
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in bringing the texture, flavor, and overall deliciousness to the cookies. Understanding the role of each ingredient ensures that you can troubleshoot and make substitutions whenever necessary.
How to Make
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and gives you that lovely warm smell of baked goods filling your kitchen.
- Mash the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth, leaving few small chunks for texture. The bananas should be well mashed to incorporate easily into the dough.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process allows the sugars to aerate the butter, resulting in a lighter cookie. It could take about 2-3 minutes of mixing.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Once creamed, add in the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Continue to mix until fully combined. You’ll notice the texture will become creamier at this stage.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the mashed bananas to the creamed mixture and mix until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Add the Chocolate Chips: Once the dough is mixed, gently fold in the chocolate chips. This is where you can also add nuts or other extras. The batter will be thick but sticky, helping to create that gooey texture in the finished cookies.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For better flavor and texture, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling also helps the cookies maintain shape while baking. However, you can bake immediately if you are pressed for time.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Scoop the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to allow for spreading. You should aim for 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You will want to take them out when the edges are golden, while the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later!
This step-by-step guide should make the baking process straightforward and enjoyable. Remember to take your time with each step for the best results, especially in mixing and baking times.
Variations & Substitutions
Nutty Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies: If you’re a nut lover, adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can give these cookies an extra crunch and a layer of flavor. The nuttiness goes well with the soft texture of the cookie and complements the banana taste beautifully. Just add a half cup of nuts to the dough when you fold in the chocolate chips.
Dairy-Free Version: For those who are lactose intolerant or simply prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Additionally, opt for dairy-free chocolate chips to maintain the cookie’s texture and taste while ensuring it remains dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Cookies: If you need a gluten-free version, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to verify that all the ingredient labels are gluten-free, especially when it comes to chocolate chips and baking soda.
Spiced Banana Cookies: For a warm, cozy flavor profile, consider adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger to the dough. About 1 teaspoon of cinnamon can add a delightful warmth and complement the sweetness of the bananas. Just be aware that adding spices might slightly alter the overall flavor, so adjust according to your preference!
Each variation allows for creativity in the kitchen, making this recipe versatile and suitable for a range of diets and taste preferences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes people make when baking cookies is not properly measuring the ingredients, especially the flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. It’s essential to spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly.
Another mistake is over-baking. Cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on their edges; once they turn golden brown, remove them from the oven.
Additionally, not allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them can cause them to break apart. Give them a few minutes to firm up. This small step can significantly impact the final texture and shape of the cookies.
Lastly, be mindful of the ingredients’ temperature. Using cold butter or eggs can affect the mixing process. Make sure they are at room temperature for the best results, as they will incorporate better and yield a superior texture.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
For optimal storage, keep your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, try freezing them. To freeze, ensure the cookies are completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the cookies again, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. This process usually takes about 30 minutes. You can also warm them up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked experience!
Remember to practice food safety by ensuring any leftovers are stored properly to prevent spoilage. The soft texture of these cookies makes them particularly sensitive to moisture, so avoid leaving them in overly humid environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe? Yes, you can absolutely use frozen bananas! This option is great if you have bananas that are too ripe or if you want to bake these cookies on a whim. Just thaw the frozen bananas completely and drain any excess moisture before mashing.
How can I make my cookies chewier? If you prefer chewier cookies, consider adding an extra egg yolk to the mix and reducing the baking time slightly. The extra fat from the yolk will help retain moisture and contribute to a chewier texture.
Can I add oatmeal to the cookie dough? Yes, you can add rolled oats for a heartier cookie! About 1 cup of rolled oats can be stirred into the dough. Just keep in mind this will alter the texture slightly, making them a bit more rustic but still delicious.
What do I do if my cookies are flat? Flat cookies can often be a result of melted butter or using too little flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly, and if your butter is too soft, try chilling the dough before baking for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
How long do these cookies last? When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months without losing their taste or texture.
Conclusion:
These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are a standout treat that combines comfort, flavor, and versatility. With easy-to-follow steps and the opportunity to customize, you’re going to love how rewarding the entire process feels. So why wait? Try your hand at these cookies and enjoy their delightful flavors. You’ll be captivated by their gooey texture and the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen. Share them with loved ones or keep them all for yourself—either way, they’re sure to be a hit! Happy baking!
