As I rummaged through my pantry, the sight of a few overripe bananas caught my eye, hinting at an overdue treat—a batch of Soft and Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies was calling to me. This one-bowl recipe is a game changer, delivering the beloved flavor of banana bread in cookie form, with a dreamy, gooey center and tender edges—perfect for when you crave something sweet but want it quick and easy. With only 10 simple ingredients and minimal prep required, even novice bakers can whip these delights up effortlessly. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to utilize those extra bananas without any waste! Curious to see how these cookies capture the essence of banana bread? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Soft and Chewy: Each cookie showcases that beloved banana bread texture—soft, chewy, and absolutely satisfying.
Quick & Easy: This one-bowl recipe means minimal cleanup, perfect for those busy days when you crave a sweet treat!
Gooey Chocolate Surprise: The melted chocolate chips create delightful pockets of decadence in every bite.
Versatile Flavor: Feel free to play with flavors by adding nuts, or experimenting with other extracts to make them uniquely yours.
Waste Not, Want Not: Transform overripe bananas into a delicious dessert, showcasing your resourcefulness in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family or friends, these cookies are sure to impress, making them a staple for sharing!
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Get ready to indulge in these delightful cookies!
For the Cookies
- Overripe Banana – This key ingredient adds natural sweetness and moisture; aim for 1/4 cup without excess.
- Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Choose oil for a lighter cookie or butter for rich flavor and tenderness.
- Light Brown Sugar – Ideal for sweetness and that chewy texture; you can substitute with granulated sugar, but it will change the flavor profile.
- Egg Yolk – Essential for binding; use 1.5 teaspoons ground flaxseed and 2 tablespoons of water for a vegan swap.
- Vanilla Extract – Add this to enhance the overall flavor—no substitutions needed!
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; remember to spoon and level to avoid dense cookies.
- Baking Soda – This leavening agent is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture.
- Ground Cinnamon – Optional, but for those who love warmth in their cookies, it adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Salt – Just a pinch helps to balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Chocolate Chips – The star of the show! Feel free to swap with dark or white chocolate for a twist on the classic Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mashed overripe banana with 1/3 cup of melted butter or vegetable oil and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar. Mix thoroughly using a whisk or a fork until the ingredients are well blended and smooth, creating a cohesive batter that highlights the delightful banana flavor.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Stir in one egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the banana mixture. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, ensuring a rich and velvety texture. Take a moment to enjoy the irresistible aroma as the wet ingredients meld together, preparing the base for your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, if using. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined—take care not to overmix, as you want the cookies to remain tender and chewy.
Step 4: Incorporate the Chocolate Chips
Once the dough is ready, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough. Visualize the chocolate pockets that will create a gooey surprise in every bite of your finished Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, adding to the treat’s indulgent character.
Step 5: Rest the Dough
Let the cookie dough rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature. This step allows the flavors to meld and contributes to a moist cookie texture. While waiting, gather your parchment paper and prepare a cookie sheet, ensuring you’re ready for baking.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to achieve a perfect bake for your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. As it heats up, line your cookie sheet with parchment paper, which will help prevent sticking and ensure even baking for each cookie.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop 1-inch balls of dough and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread as they bake, giving them room to puff up and develop those delightful edges.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and they have a slight golden tint. The centers can remain soft, indicating they will have that chewy texture reminiscent of banana bread, crucial for your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the cookie sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them firm up a bit while retaining their gooey centers, making for an irresistibly enjoyable treat when ready to serve.
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?
These delightful cookies deserve a full spread of comforting accompaniments to enhance your treat experience.
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Cold Milk:
The classic pairing of cold milk elevates the cookie experience, washing down the sweet, gooey chocolate with each sip. -
Coffee or Espresso:
A rich, robust cup of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly, awakening your taste buds while complementing the soft cookies. -
Ice Cream Scoop:
A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a delicious contrast of temperature and creaminess, making every bite a decadent delight. -
Fresh Fruit Salad:
Bright, juicy pieces of fruit provide a refreshing contrast, adding a burst of flavor that lightens up the rich cookies. -
Homemade Whipped Cream:
Light and airy, whipped cream offers a delightful texture to pair with the cookies, perfect for a special occasion or evening treat. -
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle:
For those extra chocolate lovers, drizzling chocolate sauce over the warm cookies intensifies the indulgence—pure bliss! -
Nutty Granola:
Sprinkling some crunchy granola on top of your cookie adds texture and a healthful element, making your dessert feel less guilty. -
Chai Tea or Hot Cocoa:
Warming beverages like chai tea or hot cocoa envelop you in cozy vibes, enhancing the comfort of these familiar banana-inspired treats.
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect cookie experience!
-
Nutty Twist: Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and a rich flavor.
Nuts not only give a satisfying texture but also elevate the taste, making each bite even more interesting. -
Vegan Version: Substitute the egg yolk with 1.5 teaspoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.
This provides the necessary binding without compromising on that lovely, chewy texture. -
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with almond or rum extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor twist.
Each option adds a layer of complexity and warmth, making your cookies uniquely yours. -
Spiced Up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin spice for a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.
These spices work harmoniously with banana, enhancing the overall warmth of the cookies. -
Healthier Flour: Swap out all-purpose flour with spelt or whole wheat flour for a nutritious alternative.
Not only do these flours provide a nutty taste, but they also add fiber, making your cookies more wholesome. -
Chocolate Variety: Mix half of the chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate for a delicious twist on chocolatey goodness.
This simple swap provides a rich contrast of flavors and decadence that’s hard to resist! -
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over your cooled cookies for an extra indulgent touch.
This adds sweetness and a luxurious texture, turning your cookies into a dessert experience. -
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a festive, refreshing twist.
This unexpected flavor will brighten your cookies and make them perfect for holiday gatherings!
Ready to elevate those cookies? Check out these delicious ideas and make every batch a new adventure! You might also enjoy my recipe for Banana Upside Down or indulge in a comforting Whipped Hot Chocolate!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and moister your cookies will be. Aim for bananas that are heavily speckled or brown.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the flour and dry ingredients into the wet mixture to keep your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies tender and chewy—a crucial step!
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour to avoid dense cookies; too much flour will disrupt the perfect texture.
- Cool on a Rack: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack to maintain their gooey centers while preventing sogginess from steam.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or experiment with different types of chocolate chips to customize your cookies to your liking!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their lovely softness and flavor.
Fridge: For fresher cookies, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. They may become slightly firmer, but still delicious!
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw naturally for perfect texture.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies will be gooey and inviting once again!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This chilling process helps the flavors meld beautifully. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; scoop the dough balls onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time—it’s that easy! Enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime with minimal effort!
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best bananas to use are overripe ones, which are heavily speckled or even brown. They add natural sweetness and moisture. Aim for about 1/4 cup of mashed banana without any excess to ensure the perfect texture for your cookies.
How should I store my Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Very! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This preserves their soft and chewy texture perfectly! If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too wet?
The dough consistency will be slightly wet to keep the cookies chewy, so don’t worry! However, if it feels too sticky or unmanageable, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the desired texture. Just be cautious to avoid overmixing!
Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! For a vegan option, substitute the egg yolk with 1.5 teaspoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Additionally, ensure the chocolate chips you choose are dairy-free if needed. Always check labels for any allergens related to your dietary needs!
How long does it take to prepare the dough?
Absolutely! You can whip up the dough in about 15-20 minutes, and let it rest for another 15 to hydrate properly before baking. That means you can enjoy warm, gooey Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies in about 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Irresistibly Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mashed overripe banana with 1/3 cup of melted butter or vegetable oil and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar. Mix thoroughly using a whisk or a fork until the ingredients are well blended and smooth, creating a cohesive batter that highlights the delightful banana flavor.
- Stir in one egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the banana mixture. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, ensuring a rich and velvety texture.
- Gradually sift in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, if using. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined—take care not to overmix.
- Once the dough is ready, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Let the cookie dough rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to achieve a perfect bake.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop 1-inch balls of dough and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and they have a slight golden tint.
- Once baked, remove the cookie sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
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