Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also a hit with both kids and adults. With their thick, cakey texture and chocolatey goodness, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 27 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and bananas, these cookies offer a healthier twist on traditional sweets.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies are great for baking with kids, making it a fun family activity!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a snack, dessert, or lunchbox treat, these cookies fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars effortless, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing ingredients separately before combining them.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for your cookies as they bake evenly.
Ingredients
These cookies are thick and cakey, loaded with peanut butter, bananas, oats, and chocolate chips.
For the Cookies
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of your mixer, cream together the butter, peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for even distribution of dry ingredients.
Step 5: Mix Dry Into Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture. Beat until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Incorporate Bananas and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mashed bananas and semisweet chocolate chips. This adds moisture and sweetness to your cookies.
Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Use a large cookie scoop to drop scoops of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each scoop.
Step 8: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned, and cookies are set.
Step 9: Cool Down
Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack before enjoying them!
Now you’re ready to indulge in these delicious Peanut Butter Banana Cookies! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These delicious Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that complements the flavors perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create an indulgent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. Chocolate or vanilla work especially well!
On a Dessert Platter
- Serve your cookies on a decorative platter alongside other treats like brownies and fruit for a delightful dessert spread at parties.
Warm from the Oven
- Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience that brings out the peanut butter and banana flavors.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a satisfying snack that gives you an energy boost.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To ensure your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
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Use ripe bananas: Choose bananas that are very ripe for the best sweetness and flavor in your cookies.
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Measure ingredients accurately: Using precise measurements can make a big difference in texture. Be sure to level off dry ingredients for consistency.
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Chill the dough: If time allows, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.
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Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and cakey rather than dense.
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Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; ovens vary. Bake until edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile enough to pair with various side dishes. Here are some great options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing complement that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that adds creaminess.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: An elegant treat that pairs well with the rich peanut butter flavor.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda for an interesting contrast to cookie sweetness.
- Nut Mix: A crunchy assortment of nuts provides texture and additional protein alongside your cookies.
- Granola Bars: For a more filling option, serve homemade granola bars that echo similar flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, it’s easy to get a few things wrong. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using unripe bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness. Overripe bananas work best in this recipe.
- Skipping the oats: Oats add texture and help bind the cookies. Don’t skip them; they’re essential for the cookie’s structure.
- Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and cakey ones.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements ensure consistent results.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and bake cookies for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm cookies for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.
Can I make Peanut Butter Banana Cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version.
How do I know when my Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are done?
Your cookies should have golden edges and look set in the middle. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and flavor to your cookies.
What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
You can use nuts, dried fruit, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a great snack or dessert option that the whole family will love. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or swapping chocolate chips with raisins! These cookies are worth a try!
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with these Peanut Butter Banana Cookies. These thick and cakey treats blend creamy peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, making them a hit for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a fun family baking activity, or a delicious dessert option, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. With their rich texture and chocolatey goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they come together in just 27 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in the mashed bananas and chocolate chips.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet with space between each scoop.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned and cookies are set.
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before enjoying!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (35g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
