Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion! With just four simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies that are vegan, low in sugar, and gluten-free. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a tasty dessert, these cookies deliver on flavor and nutrition without compromising on taste. Plus, they are easy to make and ideal for both kids and adults!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: These cookies require minimal prep time, making them perfect for busy days.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with peanut butter and bananas, they’re packed with nutrients.
- Versatile Options: Customize with chocolate chips or coconut for extra flavor.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Enjoy without worrying about dietary restrictions.
- Irresistibly Delicious: A sweet treat that satisfies your cravings while being good for you.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to mash bananas and combine ingredients easily.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking for perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
These delicious and healthy cookies are made with just 4-ingredients and come together in a flash for a healthy, vegan, low sugar, gluten free treat!
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all natural almond butter (or swap for peanut butter)
- 1 small banana, mashed until no clumps remain
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips, unsweetened shredded coconut, or hemp seeds
How to Make Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly throughout.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until no clumps remain. This forms a smooth base for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Mix in Nut Butters & Cinnamon
Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter (if using), and ground cinnamon to the mashed banana. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 4: Form the Dough
As you mix, you’ll notice the dough coming together into one big ball. It should not stick to the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cookies from sticking while baking.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands or a scoop, roll the dough into approximately 10 balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet and press each ball down lightly with a fork.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the bottom.
Step 8: Add Sea Salt
If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt onto each cookie immediately after removing them from the oven.
Step 9: Cool & Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying this delightful healthy snack!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These healthy peanut butter banana cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a delightful addition to breakfast, these cookies can be paired with various options.
With Fruit
- Sliced Bananas – Pair your cookies with fresh banana slices for an extra boost of flavor.
- Berries – Add a side of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Apple Slices – Crisp apple slices complement the softness of the cookies perfectly.
As a Breakfast Option
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer the cookies with yogurt and granola for a delicious parfait.
- Smoothie Bowl Topping – Crumble the cookies on top of your smoothie bowl for added crunch.
With Dips
- Nut Butter Dip – Serve alongside almond or cashew butter for an indulgent treat.
- Chocolate Hummus – Enjoy dipping the cookies into chocolate hummus for a unique twist.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To ensure your healthy peanut butter banana cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Adjust Sweetness – If you prefer sweeter cookies, feel free to add a bit more maple syrup to taste.
- Mix Thoroughly – Make sure all ingredients are well combined to achieve uniform texture throughout.
- Experiment with Mix-ins – Try adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to customize your cookie experience.
- Check Baking Time – Keep an eye on them as ovens vary; you want them lightly browned but not overcooked.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These healthy peanut butter banana cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to enhance your snack time:
- Greek Yogurt – Creamy and tangy, it adds protein and pairs nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cottage Cheese – A great source of protein that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
- Oatmeal – Serve alongside a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits for a hearty meal.
- Chia Pudding – The texture contrast makes this healthful dessert an excellent companion for the cookies.
- Trail Mix – A crunchy side that’s perfect for those who love variety and texture in their snacks.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can elevate your cookie experience further.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch for.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Make sure to use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. This helps keep the cookies healthy.
- Not mashing the banana enough: Ensure the banana is thoroughly mashed with no clumps. This creates a smooth batter and improves texture.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and allows for easier cleanup.
- Baking for too long: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies; aim for a light golden bottom.
- Ignoring optional ingredients: Don’t skip adding a sprinkle of sea salt or chocolate chips. These can enhance flavor and make the cookies even more enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5 minutes to refresh their texture.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.
Can I use different nut butters?
Absolutely! You can swap almond butter with any nut butter you prefer, such as cashew or sunflower seed butter.
How do I make these cookies vegan?
These cookies are already vegan since they only contain plant-based ingredients. Enjoy guilt-free!
Can I add other ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to mix in nuts, dried fruit, or seeds for added texture and nutrition.
Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free oats or ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, these cookies are safe for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various add-ins like nuts or dried fruit. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a healthier dessert option, these cookies will satisfy your cravings. Try them today!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a guilt-free treat perfect for any occasion. With just four simple ingredients, these vegan, low-sugar, and gluten-free cookies are incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you need a quick snack or a nutritious dessert, they satisfy your cravings while keeping your health in check. The combination of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas creates a deliciously soft texture, while the option to customize with chocolate chips or coconut adds a fun twist. Enjoy them as a snack, breakfast option, or even as part of your favorite yogurt parfait!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all-natural almond butter (or extra peanut butter)
- 1 small banana, mashed until smooth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: pinch of sea salt, 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, mini dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, almond butter (if using), and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Form dough into about 10 balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Press down lightly with a fork.
- Bake for 10 minutes until lightly browned on the bottom.
- If desired, sprinkle with sea salt after baking. Let cool before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
