Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and ripe bananas. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also kid-friendly. The addition of oats and chocolate chips makes them chewy and satisfying, while their thick, cakey texture will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and bananas creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Healthy Ingredients: With oats and bananas as key components, these cookies offer nutritional benefits that make them a guilt-free snack.
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for busy bakers or last-minute dessert needs.
- Versatile Snack: These cookies are great for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or even as a sweet treat at gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having these essentials ready will make your cookie-making experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugars.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients keeps your mixing efficient and organized.
Ingredients
These cookies are thick and cakey, loaded with peanut butter, bananas, oats, and chocolate chips.
Wet 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
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add-Ins
- 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. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In the bowl of your mixer:
1. Combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in:
1. The two large eggs.
2. One teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Stir together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt.
2. Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Beat until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Chocolate Chips
Gently mix in:
1. The mashed bananas.
2. The semisweet chocolate chips until well incorporated.
Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet
Using a large cookie scoop:
1. Drop scoops of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes:
– Check for edges that are browned but still soft in the center.
Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack
Once baked:
– Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before enjoying!
With this simple guide, you can create irresistible Peanut Butter Banana Cookies that everyone will adore!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are deliciously thick and cakey, making them a perfect treat for any time of the day. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Creamy milk complements the rich flavors of the cookies and softens their texture.
As an Ice Cream Sandwich
- Place a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for a delightful dessert.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside sliced bananas or strawberries for a fresh contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Warmed with Nut Butter
- Drizzle warm cookies with extra peanut butter or almond butter for added richness.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter as part of a dessert spread for parties or gatherings.
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: The sweeter and softer the bananas, the better the flavor in your cookies.
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Don’t overmix: Mix your dough just until combined to keep the cookies tender and cakey.
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Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
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Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; oven temperatures can vary, so check for golden edges.
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Store properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Pairing side dishes with these sweet treats can enhance your overall snack experience. Here are some great options to consider.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and acidity that balances sweetness.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the cookie texture.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A rich shake adds indulgence, perfect for a dessert-like meal.
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Nutty Trail Mix: Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a crunchy side that enhances nutty flavors.
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Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses such as brie or gouda to create interesting flavor combinations.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with sweets, balancing flavors and enhancing your treat’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter Banana Cookies is a delightful experience, but certain pitfalls can affect your results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using Overripe Bananas: Using bananas that are too ripe can make your cookies mushy. Aim for medium-ripe bananas for the best texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the right amounts of flour and oats.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to retain a soft texture.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Baking without parchment paper can result in sticking. Always use parchment to ensure easy cookie removal.
- Underbaking the Cookies: Cookies should be slightly golden at the edges. If unsure, bake a minute longer for perfect results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Tip: Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Tip: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and separate cookies with parchment paper.
Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Banana Cookies that may help you.
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer extra texture in your cookies.
How do I make these cookies healthier?
Consider using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar. You can also add nuts or seeds for added nutrition.
Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to leave them out or substitute with dried fruit or nuts if desired.
How do I know when they are done baking?
The edges should be lightly browned, and the centers should look set but not overly firm.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They’re perfect as a snack or dessert and can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruit. Try making them today and enjoy their delightful taste!
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful goodness of Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas that will leave your taste buds craving more. These cookies are not only easy to whip up but also make for a healthy snack with the addition of oats and chocolate chips. Their thick, cakey texture combined with chewiness ensures that they are loved by kids and adults alike. Ideal for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or gatherings, these cookies are versatile treats that fit any occasion.
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 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in mashed bananas and chocolate chips.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
