Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert, these cookies are not only easy to make but also gluten-free, vegan, and low in sugar. With just four main ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them an ideal option for busy days or unexpected guests. Plus, their rich flavor will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you can indulge in delicious cookies with minimal effort.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Made with natural peanut butter and bananas, these cookies pack a healthy punch.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut for added flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy these cookies knowing they fit into a vegan diet without sacrificing taste.
- Gluten-Free: Suitable for those who avoid gluten; these cookies are made without any flour.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, you will need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily and helps keep your workspace organized.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing bananas and pressing down cookie balls before baking.
- Baking sheet: An essential tool for baking your cookies evenly and preventing sticking when lined with parchment paper.
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)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- unsweetened shredded coconut
- hemp seeds
How to Make Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until there are no clumps remaining. This helps create a smooth batter.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until combined. The dough will gradually form into one big ball.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll or scoop the batter into 10 balls using your hands or a spoon. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and press each cookie ball down lightly with a fork.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned on the bottom. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 7: Add Sea Salt (Optional)
Once out of the oven, sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of sea salt if desired. This enhances their flavor.
Step 8: Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a plate. Enjoy your homemade Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a quick snack or something to enjoy with your morning coffee, these cookies can be easily paired with various options.
With a Glass of Almond Milk
- Pair these cookies with a cold glass of almond milk for a refreshing and nutritious treat.
As a Breakfast Option
- Enjoy them alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast that fuels your day.
In a Lunchbox
- Perfect for kids and adults alike, these cookies make an ideal addition to lunchboxes, adding a healthy sweet treat.
With Nut Butter Spread
- Spread a little extra peanut butter or almond butter on top for an extra boost of flavor and protein.
As a Post-Workout Snack
- After your workout, enjoy these cookies alongside some fruit or a protein shake to replenish energy levels.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, consider the following tips:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep cookies soft and chewy.
- Experiment with add-ins: Try adding dark chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Keep an eye on baking time: Cookies should be lightly browned on the bottom; overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Cool completely before serving: This helps the cookies firm up and enhances their flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some suggestions:
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy contrast that adds protein and tanginess.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits provide sweetness and brightness to balance the flavors.
- Oatmeal: Serve alongside oatmeal for a hearty breakfast option packed with fiber.
- Cheese Slices: A savory cheese can offer an interesting contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Trail Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts and dried fruits adds variety in texture and flavor.
- Smoothie Bowl: Top your smoothie bowl with cookie crumbles for added crunch and sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These tips will help you perfect your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Always choose natural peanut butter that contains just peanuts and salt. Avoid brands with added sugars or oils for a healthier cookie.
- Not mashing the banana enough: Ensure the banana is mashed until smooth, with no clumps. This helps bind the ingredients better and creates a uniform texture.
- Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on them while baking. They should be lightly browned on the bottom but still soft in the center to maintain that chewy texture.
- Skipping the sea salt: Adding a pinch of sea salt enhances flavor. Don’t skip it, as it brings out the sweetness from the banana and peanut butter.
- Not letting them cool: Allowing the cookies to cool completely before eating prevents them from falling apart and improves their taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They can last for up to 5 days.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick pan over low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.
Can I use other nut butters?
Yes! Feel free to swap almond butter or any nut butter you prefer. Just ensure it’s natural and unsweetened for health benefits.
How do I make these cookies vegan?
This recipe is already vegan since it uses plant-based ingredients like peanut butter and bananas without any animal products.
How can I customize my Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
You can add mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or even protein powder to enhance flavor and nutrition based on your preferences.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
If your bananas aren’t ripe, they won’t be sweet enough. Consider letting them sit at room temperature until they turn brown or use slightly overripe ones from your pantry.
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins, ensuring everyone enjoys this delightful treat. Try making these cookies today, and savor their wholesome goodness!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a must-try for anyone seeking a quick, guilt-free treat. Made with just four wholesome ingredients—natural peanut butter, almond butter, ripe bananas, and a dash of cinnamon—these cookies are both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy days or unexpected guests, they come together in just 15 minutes and are gluten-free, vegan, and low in sugar. The rich, delightful flavor will satisfy your sweet cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals. Customize them with mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut for an extra burst of flavor. Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of your breakfast, these cookies are sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all-natural almond butter (or additional peanut butter)
- 1 small banana (mashed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, almond butter, and cinnamon; mix until combined.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough into 10 balls; press each down lightly with a fork.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly browned on the bottom.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (22g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
