Banana Bread Cookies
Table of Contents
Introduction : Banana Bread Cookies
There’s something magical about turning ripe bananas into something warm, soft, and irresistibly sweet. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at those overripe bananas on the counter, wondering what else you could do besides classic banana bread—this recipe is your answer. These banana bread cookies combine the comfort of banana bread with the joy of soft-baked cookies, and they might just become your new favorite treat.
With just six simple ingredients and one mixing bowl, you’re only 25 minutes away from cookies that taste like they came straight out of grandma’s kitchen—but with a modern twist. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner baker, or just someone who loves easy cookie recipes using bananas, this one’s for you.
So grab those bananas, preheat your oven, and get ready to fall in love with banana chocolate chip cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat. And hey—if you have a favorite mix-in or a story behind your own version, I’d love to hear it in the comments!
Why Choose This Banana Bread Cookie Recipe?
If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying treat that feels homemade and trendy, these banana bread cookies are the perfect fusion of both worlds. Picture the warm, soothing taste of classic banana bread transformed into a tender, chewy cookie. Each mouthful is studded with gooey chocolate chips that melt as you savor them. It’s this irresistible combination that makes this recipe truly special.
Whether you’re craving something cozy on a rainy afternoon or need a fast dessert for unexpected guests, this banana bread cookie recipe rises to the occasion—no mixer, no fuss, and no complicated techniques.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Only 6 ingredients – All pantry staples, no surprises.
- One bowl – Less cleanup, more baking joy.
- Naturally sweet – Thanks to those perfectly ripe bananas.
- Kid-friendly & lunchbox-ready – Soft, sweet, and just the right size.
- Flexible – Add nuts, swap chocolate chips, or go vegan with ease.
Perfect for:
- Finding a deliciously inventive way to make use of those overripe bananas
- Weekend baking projects with little ones
- Quick cookie cravings (ready in under 30 minutes)
- Anyone who loves the taste of banana bread chocolate chip cookies but wants something new
Imagine this: the best parts of banana bread and a classic chocolate chip cookie come together to create one irresistible treat. With a soft, tender center, perfectly golden edges, and that warm, comforting banana flavor in every bite, this is pure dessert bliss. It’s more than a cookie—it’s comfort, made simple.
Here’s a clean, well-organized recipe summary table for your Banana Bread Cookies recipe:
Recipe Details | |
Preparation Time: | 10 minutes |
Cooking Time: | 15 minutes |
Total Time: | 25 minutes |
Portions: | 12 cookies |
Calories (per cookie): | Approximately 120 kcal |
Categorization | |
Course: | Snack / Dessert |
Cooking Method: | Baking |
Difficulty: | Easy |
Cuisine: | American / Contemporary Baking |
Skill Level: | Beginner to Intermediate |
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Now, ready to gather your ingredients? Let’s do this together.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
Ready to bake these banana bread cookies in under ½ hour? Great! Let’s start by gathering everything you need. This is truly a no-stress recipe—the kind where simplicity shines, and every ingredient pulls its weight. You’ll likely have most of these on hand, especially if you’ve got a couple of ripe bananas waiting for their moment.
Ingredients (for approx. 12 cookies):
- 2 ripe bananas – The riper, the better! Soft, spotty bananas are ideal for sweetness and flavor.
- 1 cup rolled oats – Old-fashioned oats give great texture; you can pulse them slightly if you want a smoother cookie.
- ½ cup almond butter – Or any nut/seed butter you love. It adds richness and helps bind everything.
- ½ tsp cinnamon – A warm note that brings out the banana bread vibes.
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract – Not essential, but it enhances the flavor with a subtle layer of richness.
- ⅓ cup chocolate chips – Dark, semi-sweet, or even melted chocolate chunks—follow your cravings!
💡 Optional Add-ins: A handful of chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or a pinch of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Oven preheated to 180°C (350°F)
This recipe is so beginner-friendly, no mixer required—just one bowl and about 10 minutes of prep.
ChocoChefAI Tip: If you want those banana chocolate chip cookies to look picture-perfect, press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each cookie just before baking. It adds that “wow” factor without any effort.
Once everything’s laid out, you’ll be surprised how quickly this recipe comes together. In the next section, we’ll walk through the simple prep—step by step.
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies (Step-by-Step)
Making these banana bread cookies is so easy, it almost feels like magic. No fancy equipment, no chilling time, no hassle. Just a bowl, a fork, and a few pantry staples—and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with the cozy scent of warm bananas and chocolate.
Let’s walk through the process, step by step, so you can bake with confidence and joy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking tray by covering it with a sheet of parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies bake consistently and lift off effortlessly without sticking.
2. Mash the bananas
In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash 2 ripe bananas with a fork until smooth but slightly chunky. The natural sugars in the bananas act as the sweetener here—no need for added sugar!

3. Add wet ingredients
Stir in ½ cup of almond butter (or your nut butter of choice) and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. This forms a rich, flavorful mixture that holds all the ingredients together beautifully.
4. Mix in dry ingredients
Add 1 cup of rolled oats and ½ tsp cinnamon to the bowl. Stir gently until the mixture thickens and everything is evenly coated.


5. Fold in the chocolate
Gently fold in ⅓ cup of chocolate chips. Want an extra melty center? Try adding a spoonful of melted chocolate to the mix or save a few chips to press on top before baking.
6. Shape the cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop 12 equal portions of dough onto your lined baking sheet. Flatten each slightly with the back of the spoon—they won’t spread much on their own.


7. Bake to perfection
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges turn a light golden color and the centers are firm to the touch. For a softer texture, lean toward the 12-minute mark; for more chew, go closer to 15.

8. Cool and enjoy
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely. They’ll firm up as they cool—and the banana flavor deepens, making them even better the next day.

Tip from ChocoChefAI: Warm one of your cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds and drizzle with extra melted chocolate—you’ll thank me later.
These banana bread chocolate chip cookies are quick, comforting, and packed with goodness. And now that you’ve seen how easy they are to make, it’s time to get baking!
ChocoChefAI Tip: The Secret to Next-Level Banana Bread Cookies
Want your banana bread cookies to stand out like a bakery showstopper? This is where we take things up a notch. Here’s my personal (and tested) secret to transforming this simple recipe into something unforgettable—with just a few thoughtful tweaks.
1. Don’t Skip the Bananas’ Sweet Spot
Use very ripe bananas—we’re talking deeply speckled, almost-black skins. That’s when the natural sugars are at their peak and the flavor is most intense. You’ll notice the difference in every bite.
2. Play with Chocolate Texture
- Stir in a mix of chocolate chips and melted chocolate for layered richness. The chips give you texture, while the melted chocolate adds that gooey center everyone loves.
- Want bakery-style looks? Gently press 2 to 3 chocolate chips onto the top of each cookie before baking. This way, they’ll stay gooey and create that tempting, chocolatey look.
3. Add Crunch for Contrast
For those who enjoy texture, fold in:
- Toasted walnuts or pecans (about ¼ cup)
- Or even crushed banana chips for a double banana twist
These additions balance the softness of the cookie with a satisfying crunch.
4. Make It Vegan-Friendly (If Needed)
This recipe is naturally egg-free and dairy-free—perfect for a vegan banana bread cookie. Just double-check your chocolate chips are dairy-free, and you’re good to go.
5. A Sprinkle of Sea Salt
Right after baking, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each warm cookie. It enhances the banana and chocolate flavors in the best way—just like a gourmet dessert.
💡 ChocoChefAI Recommends: Serve your cookies warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of banana ice cream for a cozy dessert plate. Or enjoy with cold almond milk for the perfect afternoon treat.
With these thoughtful little upgrades, your cookies won’t just be good—they’ll be crave-worthy, shareable, and totally unforgettable. Ready to personalize them even more? Let’s get creative in the next section!
Creative Variations: Make These Banana Bread Cookies Uniquely Yours
One of the joys of baking is that banana bread cookies are incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered the basic banana bread cookie recipe, you can riff on it to suit your mood, the season, or what’s in your pantry. Let’s have some fun!
1. Double Chocolate Delight
Can’t get enough chocolate? Swap half the flour for unsweetened cocoa powder, and add extra melted chocolate for fudgy banana chocolate chip cookies with a brownie-like center.
2. Nut Butter Swirl
Before baking, swirl in a spoonful of:
- Peanut butter for a sweet-savory combo
- Almond butter for a mellow, nutty note
These add healthy fats and a rich twist—ideal for protein lovers.
3. Cookie Meets Cake
Turn your cookie dough into mini banana bread cookie muffins by scooping it into a mini muffin pan. Bake a few minutes longer, and you’ve got soft, cake-like bites!
4. Fruity Fusion
Add a handful of:
- Dried cranberries or raisins for chew
- Fresh blueberries for a juicy burst
Great for when you’re craving a banana chocolate chip cookie with a twist of tang.
5. Tropical Treat
Add:
- Shredded coconut
- A dash of vanilla extract
- And a few white chocolate chips : This variation brings a sunny, beachy vibe to your cookie jar.
6. Cozy Autumn Edition
Mix in:
- A dash of pumpkin spice
- Chopped walnuts
- Optional: a swirl of cream cheese : Perfect for fall baking or holiday gifting.
💡 ChocoChefAI’s Tip: Always keep the banana base intact—it’s the heart of the recipe. But don’t be afraid to play! These banana bread cookies are like a blank canvas for your flavor imagination.
From gooey and chocolatey to fruity and nutty, each variation offers a new way to fall in love with this crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re baking for a party or meal-prepping for the week, there’s a banana bread cookie for every occasion.
Conservation and Reuse: How to Keep Your Banana Bread Cookies Fresh
Let’s face it—banana bread cookies are hard to resist. But on the rare occasion you don’t finish the whole batch (or you’re saving them for later), proper storage makes all the difference in taste and texture.
Short-Term Storage (Up to 5 Days)
If you’re planning to enjoy your cookies within the week:
- Let them cool completely before storing—this prevents sogginess.
- Transfer them into a sealed container, making sure to line the bottom with parchment paper for extra protection.
- Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
🔸 Pro tip: Slip a slice of bread into the container to keep your banana bread cookies soft and chewy—it works wonders!
Freezing for Longer Shelf Life (Up to 3 Months)
Want to batch-bake and save some for future cravings? These cookies freeze beautifully:
- Allow the cookies to cool fully.
- Arrange in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze for 1 hour (this keeps them from sticking together).
- Transfer to a zip-lock freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date!
To enjoy later:
- Thaw at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.
- For a just-baked feel, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
Reuse Ideas: Delicious Leftover Upgrades
Stale cookie? Don’t toss it—repurpose it!
- Cookie crumbles: Crush and sprinkle over yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
- Ice cream sandwich: Sandwich softened vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies—freeze and enjoy!
- Layered parfait: Crumble cookies into jars with Greek yogurt and fruit for a sweet snack or breakfast.
ChocoChefAI’s Note: These cookies store better than most soft baked goods thanks to their naturally moist banana base. But fresher is always better—so plan to bake small batches often!
With smart storage and a few creative twists, you’ll never let a banana bread cookie go to waste. Whether fresh from the oven or repurposed into a treat, these cookies stay delicious day after day.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to These Banana Bread Cookies
There’s something truly magical about the humble banana bread cookie. With just six simple ingredients, you get a soft, chewy bite bursting with real banana flavor and the nostalgic comfort of homemade treats. Whether you’re craving a midweek pick-me-up or baking to share with friends, this easy banana bread cookies recipe never disappoints.
Let’s not forget how versatile they are:
- Want indulgence? Add melted chocolate or chocolate chips.
- Need a healthier twist? Go for oats, nuts, or whole wheat flour.
- No mixer? No problem. These cookies are one-bowl wonders—perfect for beginners and pros alike.
Every batch brings that balance of cookie texture with banana bread soul. And the best part? These are the kinds of cookies that invite creativity, encourage sharing, and make you feel right at home in your kitchen.
From ChocoChefAI to You: If this recipe brings a smile to your face, don’t hesitate to make it your own. Try it, tweak it, and tell us how it turned out—we love seeing how you bring these banana chocolate chip cookies to life.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ripe bananas, preheat the oven, and let the baking magic begin.
After all, the only thing that can top classic banana bread is transforming it into a deliciously soft banana bread cookie.
Related Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Loved these banana bread cookies? You’re definitely not the only one—and something delicious is coming your way. Here are some deliciously easy recipes that share the same comforting flavors, short prep times, and cozy vibes. Whether you’re working with overripe bananas or simply in the mood for something warm and sweet, these related recipes will keep your baking game strong.
1. Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
A twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie—add mashed bananas for a moist, chewy texture and a naturally sweet flavor.
2. Classic Banana Bread (Cookie and Kate Inspired)
If you’re a fan of that famous Cookie and Kate banana bread, this soft, dense loaf made with pantry staples will hit the spot.
3. Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Muffins
Same banana-chocolate combo, but in a grab-and-go format.Ideal for a quick breakfast or a tasty bite when you’re on the move.
4. Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies (Gluten-Free Version)
Crafted with almond flour and sweetened with coconut sugar, this treat is a delightful option for those who prefer to skip the gluten.
5. Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Add oats, cinnamon, and raisins or chocolate chips for a hearty, chewy cookie that feels almost like breakfast.
6. One-Bowl Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Just like our featured recipe, this one uses minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor. Peanut butter and banana? Always a win.
Whether you’re a loyal banana lover or just discovering the magic of baking with them, these recipes make sure you never run out of sweet ideas.
FAQs – Banana Bread Cookies
1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Be sure to let them thaw completely and pour off any extra liquid before you start mashing. Frozen bananas are often sweeter and perfect for baking.
2. What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
No problem—try:
Chopped dark chocolate
White chocolate chunks
Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins
A swirl of Nutella or peanut butter for extra richness
3. How ripe should my bananas be?
The riper, the better. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots. The natural sugars intensify, adding deep flavor and moisture to your cookies.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Of course! This is a great small-batch recipe, but doubling it works well if you’re baking for a crowd (or just planning ahead for snack time!).
5. How do I keep banana bread cookies from turning out too soft?
If your cookies are too soft or cakey:
Consider placing the dough in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes before baking for even better results.
Add a spoonful more flour for structure.
Make sure your bananas aren’t overly watery.
6. Can I freeze banana bread cookie dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls, flash freeze them on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes to your baking time.
7. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature, and they’ll stay deliciously fresh for about three days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, simply store them in the fridge or pop them in the freezer for extended freshness.