Walking through my kitchen, the sweet, comforting aroma of baked goods often wraps around me like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies, a delightful treat that perfectly marries the rich taste of ripe bananas with decadent chocolate chips. Not only are these cookies quick and simple to whip up, but they also make the most of those brown-spotted bananas that often languish in the fruit bowl. Imagine cozy evenings spent with a cookie in hand, its soft center melting into your favorite cup of tea. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a well-deserved treat after a long day, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. Are you ready to bake some joy into your day?
Why Are Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies a Must?
Comforting and full of flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips creates a deliciously satisfying treat that’s hard to resist.
Quick to make: Less than 30 minutes from start to finish means you can enjoy these cookies even on busy days.
Versatile options: Customize them! Swap chocolate for nuts or dried fruits and tailor them to your taste.
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s with family, friends, or as an after-school snack, these cookies are sure to delight everyone.
Waste-not philosophy: Utilize those overripe bananas that often go to waste for a delicious outcome that helps reduce food waste.
If you love baked goods, check out my Chocolate Chips Cookies for another crowd-pleaser!
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to create some irresistible cookies with these simple ingredients!
For the Cookie Dough
- Ripe Bananas – Natural sweetness and moisture source; use bananas with brown spots for best results.
- Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; opt for vegetable oil for a dairy-free treat.
- Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; white sugar can substitute for a lighter flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; make sure it’s spooned and leveled for accurate measurement.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; keep it fresh for maximum lift.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and complexity; adjust to taste for a spicier kick.
- Salt – Balances flavors perfectly; consider using flaky sea salt for a gourmet finish.
- Chocolate Chips – Bring chocolatey goodness; feel free to swap for dark or semi-sweet chips based on preference.
Now you have everything you need to make these delightful Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies. Let’s get baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by mashing 2 to 3 ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until they are smooth and creamy. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of melted butter or vegetable oil along with 3/4 cup of light brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and well combined. Stir in 1 egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is mixed thoroughly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your banana and sugar combination, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies soft and chewy.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Now it’s time to add the fun! Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the cookie dough, ensuring even distribution. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for about 15 minutes. This brief hydration will help the flavors meld and improve the cookie texture.
Step 4: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough rests. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers look soft and slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
Step 5: Cool
Once baked, remove your Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for setting the cookies’ shape while keeping them soft. After they have slightly cooled, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and enjoy the delightful aroma as they finish their cooling process.
Storage Tips for Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Adding a slice of bread helps retain moisture, keeping them soft.
Fridge: If you prefer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re tightly sealed to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
Freezer: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months—perfect for future treats!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a couple of minutes until warmed through. Enjoy those delicious banana chocolate chip cookies!
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies is a wonderful experience, and pairing them with the right sides can elevate your treat even more.
- Cold Milk: A classic companion, the creaminess of cold milk perfectly complements the sweetness and flavors of the cookies.
- Espresso: The rich, bold taste of espresso contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s soft texture, making it a sophisticated pairing for adults.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Placing a warm cookie over a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a dreamy dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea enhance the warm flavors of the cinnamon in the cookies, offering a cozy, comforting touch.
- Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries like strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, adding a vibrant, fruity element to your snack.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your warm cookies gives an extra decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Trail Mix: For a crunchy texture, serve with a side of trail mix. The nuts and dried fruits add a delightful contrast to the cookie’s chewy softness.
- Caramel Sauce: A scoop of rich caramel sauce adds depth to each bite, enhancing the banana flavor and providing a delicious, gooey contrast.
Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas with brown spots offer the best natural sweetness and moisture. Avoid using green bananas to ensure flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain the soft and chewy texture of your cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Letting the dough rest for at least 15 minutes before baking helps enhance the flavors, leading to richer Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking; cookies should be slightly underbaked in the center to achieve that desirable chewiness.
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to swap in nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate chips for exciting variations in flavor and texture.
Variations & Substitutions for Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Feel free to get creative and personalize these cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Nutty Delight: Swap in your favorite nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of regular butter for a creamy, non-dairy version.
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Add More Spice: Sprinkle in some nutmeg or allspice for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile of these cookies.
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Swap Sweeteners: Try using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweet touch, transforming the cookies’ depth.
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Whole-Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture and extra nutrients.
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Fruity Fun: Mix in chocolate-dipped dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries for bursts of flavor and a chewy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising, spicy kick that pairs excitingly with sweet bananas.
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace chocolate chips with a combination of dark, milk, and white chocolate for a treat that pleases every chocolate fan.
If you want even more inspiration, explore other delightful recipes like Chocolate Chips Cookies or check out the heavenly flavors in the Swiss Chocolate Chalet. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your baking experience smoother during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. To maintain the cookies’ incredible quality, be sure to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking for the best texture. If you prefer, you can also freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months—just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for a freshly baked treat that tastes just as delicious!
Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These bananas are naturally sweeter, making your cookies extra delicious and chewy.
How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. I often add a slice of bread to the container; it helps retain moisture and keeps the cookies soft!
Can I freeze the cookies for later?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, first lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave!
What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
Very! If you find your cookies are a bit dry, it could be due to overmixing the dough or incorrect flour measurement. Make sure to mix just until the flour disappears. If you notice a dry texture, you can add a little extra mashed banana or a touch more oil to the dough next time for moisture.
Are these cookies safe for my pets?
No, chocolate can be toxic to pets. Ensure that any leftover cookies are kept out of reach from furry friends. If you’re looking for a treat your pets can enjoy, consider baking them a special pet-friendly recipe instead!
Can I make substitutions for dietary reasons?
Absolutely! If you need a dairy-free option, stick with vegetable oil instead of butter, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. For a gluten-free version, try replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, which generally works well in cookie recipes.
Perfectly Soft Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by mashing 2 to 3 ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until they are smooth and creamy. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of melted butter or vegetable oil along with 3/4 cup of light brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and well combined. Stir in 1 egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is mixed thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your banana and sugar combination, gently stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the cookie dough, ensuring even distribution. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough rests. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers look soft and slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
- Remove your Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
