Why Make This Recipe
Banana Bread Cookies bring a delightful twist to traditional cookies. They are soft, chewy, and full of banana flavor. If you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, this is the perfect recipe to use them. Not only are these cookies delicious, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Plus, who doesn’t love a sweet treat that’s easy to make?
How to Make Banana Bread Cookies
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter flavored shortening
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed overripe bananas
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 6 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
- Pinch of salt for frosting
- 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking sheet and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening and granulated sugar together.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat the mixture for another 2 minutes.
- Fold in the mashed bananas until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until everything is combined.
- Grease a cookie scoop with nonstick cooking spray.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy.
- Add the remaining ingredients for the frosting and beat until smooth.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the frosting.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies
These cookies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain or with the delicious cream cheese frosting on top. Serve them as a snack or dessert. They also make a great addition to any gathering or party!
How to Store Banana Bread Cookies
To keep your Banana Bread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and tasty for several days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and they can be kept for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips to Make Banana Bread Cookies
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Make sure to measure your flour correctly to avoid dry cookies.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the dough.
- If you prefer a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can make these cookies with peanut butter instead of shortening and add chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them completely and mash them before adding them to the mix.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based shortening for a vegan version.
