Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors with these banana chocolate chip cookies! Ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgence of chocolate chips, creating a treat that’s both comforting and delicious. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own, these cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional baking time of 12-15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 1g fiber. These values are based on a standard cookie size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly.
Add the softened butter and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts, if using.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Alternative Ingredients

For a healthier version, consider using oat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or substitute coconut oil for butter. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan option.

Serving and Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Cooking Mistakes

Using unripe bananas can result in less flavor.
Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
Not measuring flour accurately may affect the dough consistency.
Skipping the cooling step can make the cookies fall apart.
Baking at too high of a temperature can burn the edges.

Helpful Tips

Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
Experiment with different types of chocolate chips.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Can I add nuts to the cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and flavor.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to a week at room temperature.

What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Conclusion

Banana chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with rich chocolate. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious recipe!