Banana Bread Cookies – Soft, Moist Cookies with Classic Banana Bread Flavor

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup brown sugar

1 large egg, room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)

½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and creamy, about 2 minutes. This creates a soft cookie base.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Add the mashed bananas and mix gently until smooth and evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Variation

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Cookies: Add mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Oatmeal Banana Cookies: Replace ½ cup flour with rolled oats.

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies: Swirl peanut butter into the dough.

Glazed Banana Cookies: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze after cooling.

Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and a flax egg substitute.

Cooking Note

These cookies are meant to be soft and cake-like rather than crisp. Avoid overbaking, as they will continue to set while cooling and can dry out if left in the oven too long.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Bread Cookies warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or milk. They’re perfect for breakfast on the go, snack time, or a light dessert. For a special treat, sandwich two cookies with cream cheese frosting in between.

Tips

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for best flavor.

Measure mashed bananas carefully to avoid excess moisture.

Don’t overmix the dough once flour is added.

Line baking sheets for easy cleanup and even baking.

Store cookies covered to maintain softness.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

12 minutes

Total Time

27 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie)

Calories: 145

Protein: 2 g

Sodium: 120 mg

FAQs

Are banana bread cookies chewy or cakey?
They are soft and cake-like, similar to banana bread.

Can I freeze banana bread cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw completely and drain excess liquid before using.

Why are my cookies flat?
Too much banana or warm butter can cause spreading.

Can I add spices?
Absolutely—nutmeg or allspice works beautifully.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cookies are the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With their soft texture, rich banana flavor, and simple preparation, they bring the cozy taste of banana bread into an easy cookie form. Whether you’re using up ripe bananas or just craving something warm and nostalgic, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your baking rotation.