Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and ripe bananas, making them perfect for any occasion. Their thick and cakey texture is complemented by the addition of oats and chocolate chips, creating a cookie that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a snack for the kids or a sweet addition to your dessert table, these cookies are sure to stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of peanut butter and banana creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for lunch boxes, after-school snacks, or as a dessert at family gatherings.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and bananas, these cookies offer some nutritional benefits along with their sweetness.
- Kid-Friendly: Children love the taste and they can even help in the kitchen, making baking a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make the experience enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps in creaming the butter and peanut butter smoothly, ensuring even texture in the cookies.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess; having multiple bowls allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients
In the bowl of your mixer, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Ensure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then add in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly so that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture. Beat until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Add Bananas and Chocolate Chips
Fold in the mashed ripe bananas and semisweet chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon until they are well incorporated into the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough
Use a large cookie scoop to drop generous scoops of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about two inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned and cookies look set on top.
Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack
Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your fresh-baked Peanut Butter Banana Cookies!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These delicious Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a snack, there are many creative ways to present these cookies.
With Milk
- Pair your cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that complements the rich flavors of peanut butter and banana.
As Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create delightful ice cream sandwiches. Add your favorite ice cream flavor in between for a refreshing treat.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors of peanut butter and banana enhance your beverage experience.
Crumbled Over Yogurt
- For a healthy twist, crumble the cookies over yogurt. This adds texture and sweetness to your morning or afternoon snack.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with fresh fruits like bananas and strawberries. This makes for an attractive presentation at parties.
Gift Them in a Jar
- Layer the cookies in a mason jar for a cute gift idea. Add a ribbon and tag for an extra special touch.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To ensure your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The more ripe the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and cakey.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them in the oven; every oven is different. Bake until edges are lightly browned.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or coconut flakes for added flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some delightful options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Serve with mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a savory contrast.
- Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that goes well with cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces in warm chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.
- Nut Butter Dip: Pair with another nut butter dip (like almond) for extra nutty goodness.
- Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix of nuts and dried fruits adds texture and makes for snacking fun alongside the cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can compromise your delicious results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas add flavor, overly mushy ones can alter the cookie texture. Use bananas that are ripe but not excessively soft.
- Skipping the Creaming Step: Failing to cream the butter and sugars properly can lead to dense cookies. Take the time to mix until light and fluffy for a better texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cookie dough. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Overbaking can result in dry cookies. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as they should be set but not hard.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect how well the ingredients combine. Allow them to come to room temperature before starting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Peanut Butter Banana Cookies that might help you with your baking experience.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer extra texture in your cookies. Just keep in mind it may alter the overall consistency slightly.
Are Peanut Butter Banana Cookies healthy?
These cookies contain bananas and oats, which provide some nutritional benefits, but they are still a treat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How do I make gluten-free Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit according to your preference.
How do I store leftover cookie dough?
You can store leftover cookie dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please everyone in the family. They are versatile too; you can easily customize them by adding nuts or swapping ingredients based on what you have at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these warm, comforting treats!
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a perfect treat that combines creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas for a unique twist on traditional cookies. With their thick, cakey texture and the added goodness of oats and chocolate chips, these cookies are not only satisfying but also nutritious. Ideal for lunch boxes, family gatherings, or as a sweet snack, they offer a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. Plus, they’re simple enough for novice bakers to whip up with ease. Get ready to enjoy warm cookies that bring comfort and joy to any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, oats, baking soda, and salt; mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in mashed bananas and chocolate chips gently.
- Drop rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 106mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
