Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the cozy, comforting flavor of banana bread but wanted something a little more snackable and fun, these Banana Bread Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Combining the tender, moist essence of banana bread with the delightful chew and crisp edges of a classic cookie, this treat hits all the right notes. With a luscious cream cheese glaze drizzled on top, every bite bursts with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making these cookies impossible to resist. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon with tea or a festive gathering, Banana Bread Cookies are the ideal way to share a warm hug in edible form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Banana Bread Cookies, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building that classic banana bread flavor and achieving the perfect cookie texture — from the creamy butter to the aromatic cinnamon and ripe bananas.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to your cookies.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft yet chewy bite.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the bananas beautifully.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates richness and moistness in the dough.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to a slight crisp edge.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds depth and chewiness thanks to its molasses content.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet notes with warm, mellow undertones.
• 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 small bananas): The star of the show, bringing natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
• For the Cream Cheese Glaze: 4 oz cream cheese softened, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking. Next, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. This blend of dry ingredients will gently infuse your cookies with warmth and lift.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light, fluffy, and almost whipped. This step is key to getting the perfect texture — it traps air so your cookies aren’t dense, and the brown sugar adds that toasty caramel flavor.

Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Mashed Bananas

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined to create a smooth batter. Then fold in the mashed bananas, making sure they are evenly distributed. These ripe bananas will give your cookies their signature moistness and a natural sweetness you can really savor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined — be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough. If you love a bit of texture, fold in the chopped walnuts now for a toasty crunch.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough about 2 inches apart onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes to set before gently transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze and Decorate

While your cookies cool, whip up the cream cheese glaze by beating softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until you have a silky, drizzle-able consistency. Once cookies are completely cool, generously drizzle the glaze over each one for that addictive sweet tang that brings these Banana Bread Cookies to the next level.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch or added texture, consider sprinkling chopped walnuts, toasted coconut flakes, or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the cream cheese glaze. These garnishes make every bite more interesting and elevate the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

Banana Bread Cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages like chai tea, coffee, or a creamy hot chocolate. For a brunch or snack spread, try serving alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance sweetness and add some freshness to your treat.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, create a dessert platter with Banana Bread Cookies stacked alongside mini muffins, fresh berries, and a small bowl of cream cheese glaze for dipping. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a light cream cheese filling for a fun twist that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Banana Bread Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Lining the container with a paper towel helps absorb moisture and keeps the cookies soft but not soggy.

Freezing

To enjoy these treats later, freeze the cookies without the glaze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm your Banana Bread Cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a low oven (300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes to revive that freshly baked softness. If glazed, reheat gently to avoid melting the cream cheese topping too much.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for these cookies?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for Banana Bread Cookies because their high sugar content adds natural sweetness and extra moisture, improving flavor and texture.

Do I have to add the cream cheese glaze?

The cream cheese glaze is what makes these cookies stand out, adding a tangy sweetness that balances the banana flavor. But if you prefer, you can enjoy them plain or dusted with powdered sugar instead.

Can I substitute the walnuts for another nut?

Yes! Pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts work great. If you have nut allergies, simply omit the nuts or try mixing in chocolate chips for a different but equally delicious twist.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free as is. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup to make these Banana Bread Cookies gluten-friendly.

How should I store the cookies if I’ve already glazed them?

Once glazed, store the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated if your kitchen is warm, as the cream cheese glaze can soften or become a bit runny at room temperature over time.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bread Cookies bring a warm, nostalgic flavor with a delightful cookie twist that’s too good not to share. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or solo indulgence, they are as versatile as they are delicious. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up a batch — your new favorite treat awaits with every bite of these absolutely irresistible Banana Bread Cookies!

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