Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Deliciously soft and chewy cookies packed with ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips.
These Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgence of chocolate chips. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, they are soft, chewy, and will surely become a favorite in your household.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Soft and chewy texture with a hint of banana sweetness
- Rich chocolate chips that melt in your mouth
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
Banana chocolate chip cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas harmonizes beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of melted chocolate chips. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making these cookies irresistible to both banana and chocolate lovers alike. The unique combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a comforting, homey taste that evokes cherished memories of baking in the kitchen.
These cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The bananas add moisture and tenderness, while the chocolate chips provide a satisfying contrast in texture and taste. The result is a cookie that is both soft and chewy, making it the perfect companion for a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Versatile and Easy to Customize
One of the great things about banana chocolate chip cookies is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For a nutty twist, consider adding walnuts or pecans. If you prefer dark chocolate, substitute the semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm, aromatic quality to your cookies.
Additionally, these cookies can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This makes them accessible for those with dietary restrictions while still delivering on flavor and texture. No matter how you choose to customize them, the end result will always be a deliciously satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your banana chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful baking tips. First, make sure your bananas are ripe; the more brown spots they have, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. If you don't have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.
Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of the light and chewy texture we aim for. Lastly, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so it's best to check them a minute or two before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cookies:
For the Cookies
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Bake the Cookies
Drop tablespoonfuls 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.
Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your banana chocolate chip cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for several days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat whenever the craving strikes.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen cookie, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or you can warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that freshly baked taste.
Perfect Pairings
Banana chocolate chip cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various beverages. A tall glass of cold milk is a classic choice, perfectly complementing the rich flavors and soft texture of the cookies. For those who enjoy a warm drink, a cup of coffee or hot chocolate enhances the experience, adding a cozy touch to your snack time.
If you're looking for a creative twist, try serving these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream. The warm cookie combined with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. This indulgent treat is perfect for gatherings or a special dessert at home.
Serving Suggestions
These banana chocolate chip cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family gathering, a birthday party, or simply a cozy night in. Consider serving them on a festive platter, adorned with fresh fruit or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an added touch of elegance. You can also package them in a cute box with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
For a fun twist, try using these cookies as a base for ice cream sandwiches. Simply scoop your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delightful treat that is sure to impress family and friends. No matter how you choose to serve them, these cookies are bound to be a hit!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze in individual portions.
→ What can I substitute for butter?
You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute if you're looking for a dairy-free option.
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Deliciously soft and chewy cookies packed with ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Drop tablespoonfuls 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.
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g