There’s something truly heartwarming about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, especially when they pay homage to a classic favorite like banana bread. In my quest to find a healthier sweet treat, I stumbled upon these Easy Paleo Banana Bread Cookies that perfectly blend nostalgia and nutrition. With just six simple ingredients, they transform overripe bananas into a scrumptious snack that fits seamlessly into any diet—gluten-free, vegan, or paleo!
On days when I crave that comforting taste of banana bread but want something easy to whip up, these cookies are my go-to solution. They are delightfully chewy and surprisingly soft, making them an instant crowd-pleaser, whether for an afternoon snack or dessert. Join me as we explore how to make this delightful recipe—it transforms the ordinary into something truly special without the hassle of refined sugars or complicated steps. Grab your bananas, and let’s get baking!
Why are Banana Bread Cookies a Must-Try?
Simple and Quick: These banana bread cookies require just six ingredients, making them an excellent choice for busy bakers. Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients, they offer a tasty alternative to sugary snacks. Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to tailor the flavors to your liking. Family-Friendly: Kid-approved, these treats will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy the comforting taste of classic banana bread in a healthy cookie form!
Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Almond Flour – This gluten-free flour provides a delightful nutty flavor and structure.
• Baking Soda – Ensure it’s fresh; this helps your banana bread cookies rise beautifully.
• Sea Salt – A pinch enhances flavors and brings out the sweetness perfectly.
• Cinnamon – For a warm, comforting spice note; feel free to add more for extra flavor.
For the Sweetness
• Pure Maple Syrup – This natural sweetener keeps your cookie refined-sugar free; honey works as a great alternative.
• Overripe Mashed Bananas – About 4 medium bananas needed; the riper, the sweeter—key for banana bread cookies!
Binding Agents
• Egg or Flax Egg – Use an egg for fluffiness or a flax egg for a vegan option; both bind your ingredients beautifully.
Optional Add-ins
• Chocolate Chips – A fantastic way to add decadence; dark chocolate makes the treats even healthier.
• Chopped Nuts – For crunch and added nutrients, walnuts or pecans are nutritious options.
• Nut Butter – A spoonful can enrich the flavor and texture significantly.
• Vanilla Extract – A splash elevates the overall cookie experience with a lovely aroma.
Feel free to mix and match these elements to craft your perfect batch of banana bread cookies!
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is key for even baking!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine almond flour, baking soda, sea salt, and cinnamon. Whisk together until well blended, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent.
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Prepare Bananas: Grab your overripe bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork. Mix this sweet banana goodness into your dry ingredients, creating a moist dough.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the pure maple syrup and add either an egg or a flax egg if you’re choosing the vegan route. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and well-incorporated.
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Scoop Dough: Using a 1.5 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between them, as they’ll slightly puff up while baking.
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Shape Cookies: Gently flatten each cookie portion with a fork or the back of a spoon to achieve a nicely shaped cookie, ensuring uniform thickness for even baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and allow the cookies to bake for 26-30 minutes. They should be set in the center and not wet—28 minutes often proves to be just right!
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Cool: Once baked, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain their texture, giving you the perfect bite when you’re ready to indulge!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra maple syrup before serving for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Banana Bread Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful ideas to switch things up and put your unique twist on these delicious cookies!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour to keep it nut-free while maintaining a lovely texture.
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Lower-Carb: Swap out pure maple syrup for a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol for a keto-friendly option.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Nut Buttery: Mix in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter into the dough for added creaminess that takes the cookie to the next level.
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Flavorful Zest: Incorporate citrus zest, like orange or lemon, into the batter for an invigorating burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
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Mixed Fruit: Beat the monotony by blending in chopped dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, that add texture and a hint of natural sweetness.
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Coconut Flakes: Toss in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair, bringing a delightful chewiness and rich nutty flavor.
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Protein Boost: Mix in protein powder for an extra nutritional boost, making these cookies a satisfying post-workout snack.
Experimenting with these variations lets you create a new favorite every time you bake!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Cookies?
Elevate your baking experience with delightful pairings that complement the flavors of your banana bread cookies.
- Classic Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee enhance the natural sweetness and comforting spices of the cookies.
- Smooth Almond Milk: A refreshing and creamy option, almond milk adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the cookies’ texture.
- Greek Yogurt with Honey: This adds a creamy, tangy dimension, and a drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness, making for a delightful contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A light and vibrant side, fresh fruit adds a burst of color and balances the richness of the cookies with its natural acidity.
- Nut Butter Dip: Serve the cookies with a side of almond or peanut butter for a protein boost and extra flavor, perfect for dipping!
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea offers a soothing complement, enhancing the overall cozy experience of your snack.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this adds a tropical twist, making each bite of cookie feel like a lush moment of indulgence.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A simple garnish that elevates the cookies with a hint of decadence—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Paleo Banana Bread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything together and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully while preventing the bananas from browning too quickly. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet and flatten them slightly before baking as instructed. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Enjoy a healthy sweet treat whenever you need a quick snack!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Cookies
Fridge: Keep your banana bread cookies in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain their freshness and chewiness.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes from the fridge or frozen state.
Make-Ahead: These cookies can be baked in advance and are perfect for grabbing as a quick snack or dessert.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies
- Choose Ripe Bananas: Use very overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture; the browner, the better!
- Sticky Dough Alert: Expect a stickier dough than traditional cookies; use a scoop and wet hands for easier handling.
- Oven Temperature Matters: Bake at 350°F, but be mindful of your oven’s accuracy; check cookies a few minutes early if unsure.
- Uniform Thickness: Flatten cookies evenly before baking to ensure they cook through uniformly and achieve a soft, chewy texture.
- Smart Storage: Store your banana bread cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Easy Paleo Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best results, use very overripe bananas, preferably those with dark brown spots all over. These bananas provide maximum sweetness and moisture, essential for that delicious banana bread flavor in your cookies.
How should I store the banana bread cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your banana bread cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them longer, keep reading about freezing options!
Can I freeze banana bread cookies? How?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! First, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After they’re frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5-6 minutes.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very common! If you find that your dough is stickier than expected, try dampening your hands before scooping and shaping the cookies. You can also lightly sprinkle some almond flour on your hands and the dough to help with handling. Remember, it’s okay if the dough is sticky; that’s part of what makes these cookies delightful!
Are these cookies safe to share with my pets?
Not at all! While bananas are safe for dogs in moderation, the other ingredients—such as almonds and maple syrup—can cause issues for pets. It’s best to avoid sharing these cookies with your furry friends. Always stick to pet-safe treats!
Can I adjust the sweetness if I want to reduce sugar?
Certainly! If you’re looking to cut down on sweetness, you can either reduce the amount of maple syrup or even omit it since the overripe bananas already provide natural sweetness. You could also try adding unsweetened applesauce as a lovely alternative for moisture without additional sugars.
Delightful Banana Bread Cookies for Healthy Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, baking soda, sea salt, and cinnamon.
- Prepare Bananas: Mash the overripe bananas thoroughly with a fork and mix into dry ingredients.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in maple syrup and add either an egg or a flax egg, mixing well.
- Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Shape Cookies: Flatten each cookie portion for even baking.
- Bake: Allow cookies to bake for 26-30 minutes until set in the center.
- Cool: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying.