Name: Banana Bread Cookies: Soft, Chewy Treats for Every Craving
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 cups unsalted butter (softened); 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 0.5 cups brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas; 1 cup chocolate chips; 0.5 cups chopped walnuts (optional); 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; splash milk (to adjust consistency)

As autumn leaves dance in the crisp air, the lingering aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies wafts through my kitchen, igniting both nostalgia and warmth. There’s something magical about embracing this season with vibrant flavors, and these cookies embody the essence of fall! With just a handful of ingredients, these treats come together in a breeze, making them a perfect choice for both bustling family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. They serve as a delightful antidote to fast food, connecting you to the joy of homemade goodness that everyone cherishes. And trust me, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, you’ll find that these cookies are not just simple to whip up; they also create a soft, chewy texture that will have you coming back for more. Curious about how to bring this festive indulgence to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Banana Bread Cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Fusion: The marriage of banana bread and cookie textures results in a treat that is both soft and chewy, while the chocolate chips add pockets of gooey delight.
Autumn Nostalgia: With each bite, you’ll experience the warm flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin, capturing the essence of fall in a fun, handheld treat.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is designed for everyone; even novice bakers can impress their loved ones in no time.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these cookies will be the star of any gathering, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional snacks.
Versatile Options: Feel free to personalize them by adding nuts, or even drizzling a delightful cream cheese glaze for an extra touch! For more baking inspiration, check out my other easy cookie recipes.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delicious fall favorite!

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability for the cookies.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the cookies rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness, making each bite delightful.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, seasonal spice that evokes the feeling of autumn.
Unsalted Butter – Brings richness and moisture to create a soft cookie texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough while contributing to a slightly crisp edge.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, amplifying the taste.
Large Egg – Binds all ingredients together for a cohesive cookie structure.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile, making them irresistible.
Mashed Ripe Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; a key ingredient for these delightful cookie flavors!
Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor for an extra layer of enjoyment.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze (optional)

Cream Cheese – Offers creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor to elevate your cookies.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and helps create a smooth texture.
Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the cream cheese glaze for easy drizzling.

Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies that are sure to become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Prep Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the dry mixture, setting a strong foundation for your delicious Banana Bread Cookies.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, taking about 2-3 minutes. The butter should be creamy with no lumps, creating a rich base that adds moisture and flavor to your cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas to the butter-sugar blend until fully combined. This will introduce moisture and a natural sweetness to your Banana Bread Cookies, binding all the ingredients together beautifully. The mixture should be smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. You want your Banana Bread Cookies to remain soft and chewy, so stop mixing as soon as you no longer see any dry flour.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and ½ cup of chopped walnuts (if using) using a rubber spatula. This will create delightful pockets of chocolate and a crunchy texture in your cookies. Make sure the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough for the ultimate indulgence.

Step 6: Portion Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the cookie dough and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scoop. This will allow the cookies to spread while baking, creating perfectly shaped Banana Bread Cookies with soft interiors.

Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers appear set. Keep an eye on them, as the cookies may look slightly underbaked in the center; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the texture to develop, ensuring each Banana Bread Cookie is as delicious as possible.

Step 9: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze
In a small bowl, beat together 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. This optional cream cheese glaze adds a luscious finish to your cookies, enhancing their flavor profile and making your Banana Bread Cookies even more irresistible when drizzled on top.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

As the cozy aroma of freshly baked cookies fills your home, let’s explore some delightful pairings to complete your autumn dessert experience!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies, making for a comforting fall meal.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices harmonize with the pumpkin flavors while providing a festive touch to your dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful coolness that contrasts the warm, chewy cookies, elevating the entire experience.
Roasted Pumpkin Soup: This savory dish provides a perfect balance to the sweetness of the cookies, initiating a delightful flavor interplay.
Chocolate Milk: Rich and indulgent, this beloved classic not only complements the chocolate chips but adds an element of nostalgia to your meal.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness paired with a hint of maple echoes the flavors of your cookies, creating a harmonious plate.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some over your cookies for a crunchy texture, making each bite even more delightful and satisfying.
Warm Spiced Tea: This soothing drink pairs well with the rich flavors of chocolate and pumpkin, making it a perfect warm addition.
Caramel Drizzle: Add a touch of caramel over your cookies for an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly enhances every bite!

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies

Soften Butter Properly: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature; this helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough.
Don’t Overmix: After adding dry ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as combined.
Use Ripe Bananas: Choose overly ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture, enhancing the flavor of your Banana Bread Cookies.
Watch Baking Time: Cookies may appear soft when you take them out; they’ll firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking for that perfect chewy texture.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by swapping chocolate chips for butterscotch or adding raisins for a fun twist!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 10 days, though this may slightly alter their chewy texture.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months—perfect for enjoying later!

Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, microwave for 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. The Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies will be just as delightful as the day you baked them!

Variations & Substitutions for Banana Bread Cookies

Feel free to get creative and customize these cookies to your taste—your kitchen will smell divine!

Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts if you want a nut-free version. You won’t miss the crunch, as the cookies remain delightfully chewy!
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten sensitivities while retaining the delicious flavors.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and opt for non-dairy milk in the cream cheese glaze for a vegan twist.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spiced variation that gives a little extra warmth to the existing fall flavors.
Fruity Twist: Toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the bananas.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a fun flavor twist. The gooey centers will be a tasty surprise!
Cream Cheese Glaze Alternative: Instead of the cream cheese glaze, drizzle a simple powdered sugar icing mixed with lemon juice for a refreshing citrus contrast.
Pumpkin Addition: Mix in ½ cup of pumpkin puree for an added layer of flavor and moisture that makes these cookies a true fall favorite!

These variations are just the beginning! Remember, cooking is an adventure—feel free to experiment to find your perfect cookie combination. And if you’re in the mood for more delightful baking, check out my irresistible easy cookie recipes to inspire more homemade goodies!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to combine the wet and dry ingredients, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before placing in a preheated oven. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and maintain their delicious, soft texture. For those who want to enjoy fresh cookies later on, baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe bananas for the recipe?
Absolutely! When picking bananas for this recipe, choose ones that are overly ripe with lots of brown spots. These bananas will be sweeter and provide the moisture you need for perfect cookies. If you already have bananas that are starting to turn black, don’t worry—they’re even sweeter and perfect for baking.

How should I store these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?
The best way to keep your cookies fresh is to store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you need them to last longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for about 10 days, although this may change their chewy texture slightly.

Can these cookies be frozen for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, first cool them completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven!

What do I do if my cookies are too flat?
If your cookies come out too flat, it might be due to a few common reasons. First, make sure your butter is softened but not melted; melted butter can lead to spreading. Also, check if your baking soda is fresh and active. If the dough is too warm when you portion it onto the baking sheet, try chilling it for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these cookies are not safe for pets due to ingredients like chocolate, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. Be sure to keep them out of reach from our furry friends. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly alternative, consider making a simple banana dog treat with just mashed bananas and oats!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Very! You can easily modify this recipe based on your dietary needs or preferences. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds. If you’d like a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil in place of butter and a dairy-free chocolate substitute.