Introduction
There’s something quite magical about the combination of bananas and chocolate, isn’t there? This delightful recipe for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies brings together the warm, comforting flavors of ripe bananas and rich, melty chocolate chips for a treat that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these cookies will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma and your heart with joy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ripe mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, letting that sweet anticipation build as the oven warms up.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a wonderful base for your cookies.
- Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the sugary goodness, stirring until everything is well combined. The sweet banana scent will fill your kitchen!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, ensuring that your dry ingredients are evenly mixed for a perfectly textured cookie.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft, tender cookies!
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts, if you’re using them. Revel in the sight of those glorious chocolate morsels nestled into the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust us; a little cooling makes them even more delicious!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas; their natural sweetness enhances the cookies. You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans or leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free cookie. Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven, but they also store well in an airtight container for several days—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming butter and sugars together is a crucial step in baking that creates a light texture in your cookies. Be sure to beat them well, but don’t overwork the dough once you add the flour to maintain buttery softness. Folding in your chocolate chips and nuts gently helps keep air in the mixture, ensuring a delightful chewiness.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit until thickened) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup).
Conclusion
Baking these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies is not just about creating a delicious snack; it’s about indulging in the warm, cozy feelings that come with sharing sweet treats with loved ones. Each bite offers a burst of flavor and a nostalgic taste of home. So grab those ripe bananas and get baking; your taste buds are in for a real treat!