Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of peanut butter and ripe bananas, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, looking for a quick snack, or baking with kids, these cookies offer a unique twist on the classic cookie experience. Their thick and cakey texture, combined with oats and chocolate chips, ensures each bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cookies
• Dry Ingredients
• Add-Ins
• How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
• Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
• Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
• Step 6: Add Bananas and Chocolate Chips
• Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet
• Step 8: Bake
• Step 9: Cool
• How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• With a Glass of Milk
• Crumbled Over Yogurt
• Warmed with Ice Cream
• As a Lunchbox Treat
• Paired with Fruit
• How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
• How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
• What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
• Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time.
• Kid-Friendly: These cookies are easy to make with little hands helping out in the kitchen.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with bananas and oats, they provide a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert, snacks, or even breakfast on-the-go!
• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips creates an irresistible taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of baking these Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture by easily blending ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for your cookies while they bake evenly.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and presentation.

Ingredients

These cookies are thick and cakey, loaded with peanut butter, bananas, oats, and chocolate chips.

For the Cookies

• 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

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Add-Ins

• 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. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In the bowl of your mixer, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture. Beat until just combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Add Bananas and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mashed bananas and semisweet chocolate chips until everything is well incorporated.

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a large cookie scoop, drop scoops of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop as they will spread during baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for about 12 minutes or until the edges are browned and cookies are set.

Step 9: Cool

Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack before enjoying!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Serving Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy these delicious treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies. The cold milk balances the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Add some crumbled cookies on top of your favorite yogurt for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. This makes for a tasty breakfast or snack.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, warm up the cookies and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination is heavenly!

As a Lunchbox Treat

• Pack these cookies into lunchboxes for a sweet surprise. They are nutritious and filling, making them perfect for kids’ lunches.

Paired with Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like banana slices or strawberries. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

To make sure your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies, enhancing their flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender and cakey.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes can improve texture and prevent spreading while baking.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; ovens vary, so check them a minute or two early to avoid overbaking.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that provides a bright contrast to the sweet cookie flavors.
2. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar to balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Nut Butter Dip: Serve with additional nut butters for dipping, which adds an extra layer of flavor.
4. Smoothies: A creamy smoothie made with bananas and peanut butter pairs well and creates a delicious treat.
5. Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars can complement the soft texture of the cookies while adding more fiber.
6. Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits makes for a healthy snack option alongside your cookies.
7. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty-sweet bites create an enjoyable contrast when enjoyed with peanut butter banana goodness.
8. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the experience, making it cozy and delightful during snack time or dessert.

Enjoy creating memorable pairings with your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas add sweetness, overly brown ones can make your cookies mushy. Aim for bananas that are spotty but still firm.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of guessing to ensure consistency.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest helps flavors meld together. Don’t rush this step; let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes if possible.
• Baking at Incorrect Temperatures: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cookies. Always preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and cakey.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds until warm, but be cautious not to overdo it.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet on low heat, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Banana Cookies:

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies extra texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Make sure not to overbake them. They should look slightly underdone when you take them out of the oven.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as egg substitutes. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruits for added flavor and crunch.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various add-ins like nuts or spices. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner or a snack during the day, they are sure to satisfy cravings and bring joy. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe!