Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Name: Chewy Banana Bread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large very ripe banana, mashed (½ cup / 120 g); ½ cup unsalted butter, melted & cooled; ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1¼ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; Optional: ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg (very subtle)

Author: Lora

Published: January 19, 2026

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Introduction to Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house.

As a busy mom, I often find myself seeking easy, delicious desserts to whip up after a hectic day.

These Chewy Banana Bread Cookies are here to save the day!

Combining the rich, cozy flavors of classic banana bread with the delightful chewy texture of a cookie, they’re the perfect treat for dessert or snacking.

Whether you need a quick pick-me-up or a sweet surprise for loved ones, these cookies are sure to impress without taking all your time.

Why You’ll Love This Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Let’s be real – life can get busy, and sometimes you need a treat that’s as quick to make as it is delightful to eat.

These Chewy Banana Bread Cookies are soft, cozy, and bursting with flavor.

They come together in under an hour, from mixing to baking. Plus, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!

Each bite is like a warm hug, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals alike.

Ingredients for Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Now, let’s dive into the star players for these Chewy Banana Bread Cookies! Each ingredient has a role to play, ensuring that every bite is tantalizing and comforting.

Very ripe banana: The key to that sweet, moist texture. Aim for bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor.
Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the cookies. Let it cool before mixing in for the best results.
Light brown sugar: It gives a lovely caramel undertone and chewy texture. Brown sugar works buttery wonders in your cookies!
Large egg: This helps bind the ingredients together, giving the cookies structure while keeping them soft.
Vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla will elevate the flavor profile and add warmth.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cookie dough, it helps achieve that ideal chewy consistency.
Baking soda: This little agent provides the rise we need, while keeping the cookies delightfully soft and fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. It’s a small but mighty player!
Ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and coziness, evocative of classic banana bread.
Nutmeg (optional): A whisper of nutmeg can introduce a delightful complexity if you enjoy its subtle aroma.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article, where you’ll also find a handy print option. Happy baking!

How to Make Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Ready to bring the warmth of homemade Chewy Banana Bread Cookies into your kitchen? Follow these simple steps to create cookies that are as easy to make as they are to devour!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and perfectly.

While your oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed banana, melted butter, and brown sugar.

Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step is crucial because it helps lock in moisture and creates that delightful chewy texture we all crave.

Take about 3 minutes, and mix away!

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla

Now, it’s time to add the egg and vanilla extract to your banana mixture.

Whisk until fully combined and silky. This addition gives the cookies that rich flavor and keeps them oh-so-soft.

Just 2 minutes of mixing will make a big difference!

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Grab another bowl and whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg if you’re using it.

These dry ingredients are the secret weapons for achieving that chewy texture. The baking soda helps them rise, while the spices add warmth.

Stir for about 2 minutes until well mixed!

Step 5: Fold in Dry with Wet Ingredients

Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture.

Be careful not to overmix! You want the ingredients to be just combined; a loose and sticky dough is what you’re aiming for.

Take about 2 minutes to do this step gently.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Here’s where the magic happens! Chill the dough in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.

This helps control spreading during baking and enhances the cookie’s texture.

Trust me, this step is worth it for those perfectly chewy cookies!

Step 7: Scoop and Arrange the Dough

Once chilled, scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them on your prepared baking sheets.

Be sure to space them well apart, about 2 inches, to allow for spreading while baking.

This step should take around 5 minutes.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Now, pop those cookies in the oven and bake for 11–13 minutes.

You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden and the centers look soft and slightly sunken.

Resist the urge to open the oven door too soon; let them work their magic!

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Finally, let the cookies cool on the pan for about 10 minutes.

This allows them to set and develop those lovely wrinkles.

After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Tips for Success

Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it greatly improves texture and prevents spreading.
Mix gently to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
Keep an eye on your cookies while baking – they’re done once the edges turn golden!
Try different mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts, for added flavor.

Equipment Needed for Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Mixing bowls: Use one large mixing bowl for wet ingredients and another for dry. Any bowl will do!
Whisk: This helps mix everything together. A fork will work in a pinch!
Baking sheets: Line with parchment paper. You can also use a silicone baking mat.
Scoop or spoon: A cookie scoop is handy, but a regular spoon works just fine!
Cooling rack: Ideal for cooling cookies quickly; however, a plate can work too!

Variations of Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Nutty Banana Bread Cookies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. They pair beautifully with the soft texture!
Chocolate Chip Twist: Swap in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a decadent treat. Who can resist chocolate?
Coconut Delight: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical flair. It adds both texture and a hint of sweetness!
Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter for a nutty flavor that complements the bananas.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Your cookies will still be delightful!
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.

Serving Suggestions for Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

Milk: Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
Tea or Coffee: Enjoy them alongside your afternoon cup for a comforting snack.
Presentation: Serve cookies on a rustic plate or a colorful baking dish for a warm touch.
Ice Cream Sandwich: Use two cookies to create a delightful ice cream sandwich.
Fruit Platter: Accompany with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for a fruity balance.

FAQs about Chewy Banana Bread Cookies

As I’ve baked these Chewy Banana Bread Cookies countless times, I know you might have some questions swirling around in your mind.

Here are a few common queries, along with helpful answers for your baking adventure!

Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.

They’re perfect for a sweet treat any time you need a quick pick-me-up!

How do I know when they’re done baking? Watch for the edges to turn golden brown while the centers are still soft and slightly sunken.

If they look firm, they might be overbaked, so keep an eye on them!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can!

Just be aware that using whole wheat flour will make the cookies denser. You might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter texture!

What can I add to enhance the flavor? Get creative! Chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking can elevate the flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins!

Is there a way to make these cookies healthier? Sure! You can reduce sugar slightly or try swapping out half of the butter with applesauce.

This will keep them moist while cutting back on calories!

Final Thoughts

These Chewy Banana Bread Cookies hold a special place in my heart.

They’re a delightful reminder that even on the busiest days, a little homemade goodness can bring joy and warmth, whether for yourself or loved ones.

With each soft, chewy bite, you embrace comfort and happiness.

Baking these cookies creates not just treats but sweet memories of family gatherings and cozy nights at home.

So, dive into this recipe, and experience the joy that comes from sharing delightful cookies.

Believe me, you’ll wonder how you ever got along without them!