While rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a stash of overripe bananas, their sweet fragrance calling out to be transformed into something extraordinary. That’s when the idea of soft and chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies hit me. These delicious cookies blend the cozy charm of banana bread with the playful delight of chocolate chips, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s not just easy to make but also vegan and eggless. Beyond their simplicity, these cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With rich brown butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon, each bite offers a warm hug that feels just right. Ready to elevate your baking game and surprise your taste buds? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavor: These cookies blend the rich sweetness of ripe bananas with indulgent chocolate, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
Vegan Delight: Enjoy a guilt-free treat! Made without eggs, these cookies cater to vegan diets seamlessly.
Quick & Easy: With minimal steps and no complex techniques, even beginner bakers will find success.
Versatile Customization: Add your favorite nuts or swap in dried fruits to create a personalized twist—endless possibilities!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a last-minute potluck, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. Enjoy them freshly baked or paired with a hot drink for a delightful moment!
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these soft and chewy delights!
For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter (113 g) – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a completely vegan treat.
• Ripe Banana (80 g, approximately 1 small banana) – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; ensure bananas are very ripe for optimal flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Enhances warmth and depth of flavor, giving a cozy touch to your cookies.
• Light Brown Sugar (100 g) – Adds sweetness and caramel notes; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Granulated Sugar (50 g) – Contributes to sweetness and promotes cookie spread.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp) – Brings out the sweetness; feel free to omit if allergies are a concern.
• All-Purpose Flour (130 g) – Provides structure to the cookies; replace with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Rolled Oats (60 g) – Offers texture and heartiness, creating a satisfying bite.
• Baking Powder (½ tsp) & Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Essential leavening agents for a light, fluffy texture.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate (130 g) – Adds rich chocolate flavor; can substitute with dark or dairy-free chocolate for a different taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Continue to cook, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns a rich amber color and has a nutty aroma, about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, remove it from heat and let it cool in the fridge for 10 minutes to solidify slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Banana Base
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with the ground cinnamon until only a few lumps remain for texture. Pour in the cooled brown butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, then mix well until the sugars dissolve and the mixture becomes creamy, about 2-3 minutes of vigorous blending.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet banana mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie dough until they are evenly distributed. This step will ensure that each cookie is bursting with chocolate flavor, making these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies extra delightful with every bite.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only enhances the flavors but also improves the cookie texture, resulting in softer, chewier cookies after baking.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature when you’re ready to bake, allowing the cookies to rise perfectly and develop a beautifully golden color around the edges.
Step 7: Scoop Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out rounded mounds of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread during baking, creating that perfect soft and chewy texture.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. When the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft, remove them from the oven. This will keep them chewy and delicious in the middle, reminiscent of your favorite banana bread.
Step 9: Cool
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes after baking. This resting period will help them firm up before you transfer them to a wire rack. Once on the wire rack, let them cool completely for the best texture and flavor before indulging in your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Weigh Ingredients: Accurate measurements are key to success. Weighing flour especially can prevent dense cookies, ensuring a light and chewy texture.
- Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough; mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to tough Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Chill is Thrill: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and texture, resulting in softer, chewier cookies.
- Uniform Size: Use a 3 tbsp. scoop for consistent cookie sizes, ensuring even baking and a beautiful presentation.
- Oven Check: An oven thermometer can help confirm that your oven is calibrated correctly, preventing uneven baking and ensuring perfect results.
What to Serve with Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Imagine the comfort of soft, warm cookies paired with delightful side dishes that elevate your snack time to a cozy celebration.
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Glass of Cold Milk: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the delightful experience.
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Warm Coffee: The rich aroma and bitterness of coffee contrast beautifully with the sugary notes, creating a heartwarming afternoon treat.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a colorful medley of fruits adds a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cookies.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold ice cream melts into the warm cookies for a decadent twist on your dessert. A scoop of vanilla is truly the cherry on top!
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Nutty Chia Pudding: The nutty flavors and gel-like texture provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the cookies, making for an interesting textural experience.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, brings a soothing element, perfect for winding down after a long day.
Elevate your treat time by exploring these pairings, each offering a sensory journey that matches the delightful charm of your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft & Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings! You can prepare the cookie dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. If you want to prep even further in advance, you can portion the cookie dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the scoops, then transfer them to a zip-top bag after they’re frozen solid. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake straight from the freezer for a few extra minutes. Enjoy the convenience of fresh-baked cookies with minimal effort!
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore and customize these delightful cookies to elevate your baking experience!
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor. They work beautifully with the soft, chewy texture.
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Dried Fruit: Substitute chocolate chips with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy, sweet contrast. The combination of banana and fruit brings an extra fruity dimension.
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Spicy Kick: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor twist that will tantalize your taste buds with warmth. A sprinkle of nutmeg can make a world of difference!
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Coconut Delight: Fold in shredded coconut for an added tropical sweetness and chewiness. The coconut pairs beautifully with bananas for that extra flair!
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Maple Sugar: Swap light brown sugar with maple sugar for a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the bananas. It adds a delightful touch to the overall sweetness.
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Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie version. These tweaks let you indulge guilt-free!
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Higher Protein: Mix in protein powder of your choice, which can help keep you full longer. It’s an easy way to make these cookies a healthier snack!
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark or milk chocolate for a richness that chocolate lovers will adore. A combination of chocolates can also add complexity to flavors.
If you enjoy these banana-inspired creations, be sure to check out my other favorites like Chocolate Chip Cookies and Cinnamon Roll Cookies for more delicious inspiration!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy the best flavor within the first 1-3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their soft, chewy texture before enjoying again.
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, you’ll want your bananas to be very ripe. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or even blackened skin. This ripeness enhances the sweetness and moisture in your cookies, making them soft and chewy.
How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies nice and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They taste best within the first 1-3 days, so don’t wait too long to enjoy them! If you notice they’re getting a bit dry, consider adding a slice of bread to the container to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your cookies, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until they are solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, removing excess air before sealing. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are too dry, it may be due to overmixing or not using enough ripe banana in the dough. Make sure to mix only until combined to preserve moisture. And if you find yourself with slightly dry cookies, a drizzle of warm chocolate or some whipped cream can bring them back to life!
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! As written, the recipe is nut-free unless you decide to add nuts like walnuts or pecans. However, always check the labels if you’re using pre-packaged ingredients, as they may contain traces of nuts. Additionally, feel free to omit any nut-based ingredients if allergies are a concern!
Can I adjust the sugars for a healthier version?
Very much so! You can substitute the light brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option. Additionally, you might lessen the granulated sugar slightly since the ripe bananas already provide natural sweetness. Just remember, the flavor balance might change a little, so adjust to your liking!
Soft Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies for Cozy Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 113 g of unsalted butter, stirring until it turns golden amber and releases a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, mash 80 g of ripe banana with 1 tsp of ground cinnamon until chunky purée. Add cooled brown butter, 100 g light brown sugar, 50 g granulated sugar, and 0.5 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until smooth yet slightly chunky.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 130 g all-purpose flour, 60 g rolled oats, 0.5 tsp baking powder, 0.5 tsp baking soda, and 0.5 tsp salt. Fold this into the wet mixture gently until no flour streaks remain.
- Add 130 g semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough and fold them in gently until evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies light and chewy.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 48 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out rounded bits of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are golden brown. The aroma of banana and chocolate will fill the kitchen.
- Let cookies rest for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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