Picture this: you’re sitting in your cozy kitchen, the sun shining through the window, and the sweet aroma of warm cookies fills the air. It’s one of those moments where time slows down, and everything feels just right. That’s exactly what happens when you whip up a batch of Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. I discovered this delightful recipe when I had a few overripe bananas staring at me from the countertop, urging me to create something new.
These cookies effortlessly blend the comforting flavors of classic banana bread with the joy of chocolate chip treats. Even better, they’re made in just one bowl and can be ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for anyone looking to skip the drive-thru and indulge in homemade goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your kitchen adventures, these soft and chewy cookies are bound to impress. Grab those ripe bananas and let’s dive into a world of flavor that hugs you back!
Why are Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies irresistible?
Delightful aroma: The moment they bake, your kitchen fills with an enticing scent that beckons everyone to gather.
One-bowl simplicity: With minimal cleanup, these cookies are perfect for busy days or spontaneous baking sessions.
Moist, chewy goodness: Each bite is a balance of soft texture and gooey chocolate, reminiscent of your favorite banana bread.
Versatile flavors: Want to get creative? Substitute chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits for a personalized twist.
Quick indulgence: In under 30 minutes, you can satisfy your sweet tooth and leave fast food in the dust! Try these delightful cookies, and you’ll soon find yourself making them time and again.
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Small overripe banana (1, mashed) – This sweet, moist ingredient ensures your cookies are flavorful; discard excess to measure 1/4 cup properly.
- Vegetable oil or melted butter (1/2 cup) – Adds rich flavor and softness; try melted coconut oil for a unique taste twist.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed) – Provides moisture and a hint of caramel; granulated sugar can substitute for a milder sweetness.
- Egg yolk (1) – Acts as a binding agent for structure; for vegan adaptation, replace with 1.5 tsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tbsp water.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor, bringing warmth to each bite; no substitutes needed for this essential ingredient.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/3 cups) – This key ingredient provides structure; you can use gluten-free flour if preferred.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp) – A leavening agent that helps your cookies rise to perfection.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tsp) – Adds warmth and enhances the banana flavor; adjust to suit your taste or omit if desired.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances sweetness, making each bite more flavorful.
- Chocolate chips (2/3 cup) – Adds indulgence and texture; dark or semi-sweet chips pair exceptionally well for these cookies.
These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to embrace the joy of homemade delights in a matter of minutes!
How to Make Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine melted butter (or oil), packed brown sugar, and mashed banana. Stir until well blended and creamy, allowing all the ingredients to come together beautifully.
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Add the wet ingredients: Next, incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and everything is evenly distributed.
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Combine the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently until no dry flour remains, ensuring a perfectly mixed dough without overworking it.
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Fold in chocolate chips: Carefully fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Then, let the dough rest for about 15 minutes while the oven preheats.
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Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.
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Scoop and space: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop approximately one-inch spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart for even baking.
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Bake to perfection: Bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes. They should puff up slightly and set around the edges while remaining a little gooey in the center for that soft, chewy texture.
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Cool down: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Serve warm alongside a glass of milk for the ultimate comfort treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these cookies to suit your taste buds!
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Nuts & Seeds: Replace chocolate chips with chopped walnuts or pecans for delightful crunch and flavor.
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Dried Fruits: Swap chocolate chips for dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist that complements the banana.
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Peanut Butter: Stir in 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter for added richness and a delicious nutty flavor. Perfect for peanut butter lovers!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over baked cookies for an indulgent touch that elevates the flavor profile.
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Coconut Flakes: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the dough for an exotic twist and added chewiness that harmonizes beautifully with banana.
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Oatmeal Texture: Incorporate 1/2 cup of rolled oats into the mix for a heartier cookie with a wonderful texture.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness.
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Cacao Nibs: For a rich chocolate experience, substitute half the chocolate chips with cacao nibs for a little bitterness and crunch.
With these delightful variations, each batch of Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies can be an exciting new experience!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Picture the enchanting moment when warm cookies fill your home with their sweet aroma—now let’s complete this cozy experience with perfect pairings!
- Glass of Milk: The classic combination that enhances the cookies’ sweetness and balances their rich chocolate flavor.
- Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of berries and citrus adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ richness.
- Hot Cup of Coffee: The bitterness of a good brew complements the sweetness of the cookies, making every bite even more satisfying.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a warm drizzle of melted chocolate on top creates an indulgent experience you won’t forget.
- Peanut Butter Dip: A simple peanut butter dip offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the banana and chocolate in each cookie.
- Chocolate Milkshake: A thick and creamy shake brings together all the flavors for a nostalgic treat that will take you right back to childhood.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some homemade caramel sauce over the cookies creates a decadent dessert worth sharing (or keeping for yourself!).
- Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunchy texture, serve alongside a mix of nuts and dried fruits to contrast the softness of the cookies.
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, place cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week; just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze individual cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to indulge.
Reheating: To revive the soft texture, microwave frozen cookies for about 15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the warm goodness of your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Watch the Bake Time: Underbake slightly for chewy centers. Aim for the edges to set while keeping the middle soft to achieve the perfect texture.
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Rest the Dough: Let the dough sit for about 15 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a better cookie structure.
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Storage Suggestions: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer-lasting freshness while maintaining their delightful taste.
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Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to switch up ingredients! Try substituting chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruit based on your personal preferences.
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Vegan Options: For a vegan version of these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, simply replace the egg yolk with a flax egg for moisture and binding.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix everything together, then cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and add a couple of minutes to the baking time if needed. For cookies that stay fresh, store any baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat whenever you need a sweet moment!
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for in a ripe banana?
Absolutely! The best bananas for this recipe are overripe ones that are mostly yellow with brown spots. The darker the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Aim for a banana that measures about 1/4 cup when mashed, discarding any excess.
How should I store my Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, they can also be refrigerated for up to a week. Just make sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 15 seconds.
What if my cookie dough is too dry?
If you find your dough is too dry, it might be due to over-measuring the flour. To troubleshoot, simply add a teaspoon of water or an extra splash of oil to the dough until it comes together. Mix gently until combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the dough.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Very! For a vegan adaptation, replace the egg yolk with 1.5 teaspoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before adding it to your batter. This will help bind the ingredients and keep your cookies moist.
How long do these cookies take to bake?
The baking time is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Bake your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies for 10-11 minutes at 350°F. The cookies should puff up and set at the edges while still being slightly underbaked in the center. Letting them cool on the baking sheet will help them firm up beautifully!
Irresistibly Soft Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter (or oil), packed brown sugar, and mashed banana. Stir until well blended and creamy.
- Next, incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually add the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently until no dry flour remains.
- Carefully fold in the chocolate chips, then let the dough rest for about 15 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop approximately one-inch spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes until puffed and slightly set around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.