You know that feeling when your bananas go a little too ripe and you’re not sure what to do with them? Enter these Banana Bread Cookies—the perfect fusion of classic banana bread flavor and the convenience of a cookie. Soft, cakey, and warmly spiced, these cookies feel like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re just in the mood for something simple and satisfying, this recipe makes it easy to turn those bananas into something unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Cookies Recipe
This Banana Bread Cookies recipe is bound to be a repeat favorite—and here’s why:
- Soft and pillowy – Like banana bread in cookie form, every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Easy ingredients – Uses basic pantry staples and overripe bananas.
- One bowl, no fuss – Minimal cleanup, fast prep.
- Perfect for sharing – Great for lunchboxes, potlucks, or after-school snacks.
These Banana Bread Cookies check all the boxes for beginner-friendly baking with big flavor payoff.
A Quick Peek at Banana Bread Cookie Origins
While banana bread has been a household staple since the Great Depression, Banana Bread Cookies are a modern spin that brings new life to overripe fruit. A few fun facts:
- Banana bread first appeared in American cookbooks during the 1930s as a no-waste recipe.
- Cookies inspired by cakes and breads are part of a growing dessert mashup trend.
- The addition of cinnamon makes this version especially cozy.
- These cookies bake faster than traditional banana bread and cool down in minutes.
Key Ingredients in Banana Bread Cookies
- Salted butter: Adds flavor and richness to the dough.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with light, crisp edges.
- Eggs: Create structure and keep the cookies tender.
- Mashed bananas: The star of the show—adds moisture, flavor, and natural sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the banana flavor with a warm note.
- All-purpose flour: Holds everything together for the perfect cookie texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses warm, comforting spice.
- Baking soda & baking powder: Help the cookies rise and stay soft.
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions for Banana Bread Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk the melted butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy—about 1 minute.
- Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined.
- Sprinkle in cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Stir gently—just until mixed. Don’t overwork the dough.
- Scoop out the dough using a spoon or small cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons per cookie) and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges.
- Cool on the pan for 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling before serving.
Banana Bread Cookies Tips and Twists
Make your Banana Bread Cookies even better with these ideas:
Pro Tips:
- Let your bananas get deeply speckled for the richest flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the cookies tender and fluffy.
- For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra spice depth.
- Let the cookies cool fully before storing to avoid sogginess.
Fun Twists:
- Chocolate Banana Cookies – Fold in chocolate chips for a gooey bite.
- Nutty Banana Bites – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Fruity Fun – Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for extra texture.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
These Banana Bread Cookies are ideal for prepping ahead:
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10 seconds to refresh their softness.
- Make-Ahead: Scoop raw dough onto a tray, freeze until firm, then store in bags. Bake straight from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Cookies
These cookies are delicious on their own, but here are some fun pairings:
- With coffee or chai – Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack.
- On a brunch platter – Serve alongside fruit and mini muffins.
- With ice cream – Sandwich a scoop of vanilla between two cookies.
- In a dessert box – Great for gifting or holiday cookie trays.
- As breakfast-on-the-go – Add a few to your morning routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsalted butter instead?
Yes—just add a small pinch of salt to the dough.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, but chilling for 20–30 minutes can give you thicker cookies.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce it, but the texture may change.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use two baking sheets or bake in batches.
Enjoy Your Banana Bread Cookies
These Banana Bread Cookies are everything you want in a quick-bake treat—warm, soft, and packed with real banana flavor. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up with ingredients you likely already have. Keep this recipe in your back pocket for when your bananas are just too ripe to eat, and your sweet tooth comes calling.
Explore More Recipes You’ll Love
If Banana Bread Cookies hit the sweet spot, check out these other cozy, beginner-friendly recipes:
- These Best Carrot Cake Cookies offer similar spice and softness in cookie form.
- Start your morning right with Simple Avocado Toast with Egg—savory, quick, and protein-packed.
- For another use of fruit in dessert, try the Blueberry Bread Pudding—warm and comforting.
- Craving something chocolaty? This Chocolate Zucchini Cake is rich and moist, yet surprisingly wholesome.
Banana Bread Cookies – Soft, Easy & Full of Flavor
Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter melted (1 stick)
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed bananas about 2 medium, overripe
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar for 1 minute until fluffy.
- Add eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla. Whisk to combine.
- Stir in cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and flour until just mixed.
- Drop 2 tbsp of dough per cookie onto prepared sheet.
- Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on the pan for 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Enjoy your fresh Banana Bread Cookies warm or store for later.