- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Mix in the mashed banana, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- If using, fold in the chocolate chips and/or nuts.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). Chilling ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
- Shape Cookies:
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will still appear soft, which is perfect for that banana bread-like texture.
- Cool:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
These cookies are best enjoyed warm with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or tea. Their soft, banana bread texture and burst of flavor will have everyone asking for seconds!
Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Tips and Variations
- Riper Bananas Are Better: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Add a Drizzle: Top cooled cookies with a drizzle of melted chocolate or cream cheese glaze for an extra touch.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the egg with a flaxseed egg, and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
This Banana Bread Cookie recipe is a fun twist on a classic favorite. They’re perfect for sharing, snacking, or satisfying that sweet tooth with a touch of nostalgia. Enjoy baking!