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, paired with the sweetness of chocolate chips, creates a cookie that is not only satisfying but also kid-friendly. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick snack, these cookies stand out with their wholesome ingredients and comforting taste.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Wet Ingredients
• 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: Add Eggs and Vanilla
• Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients
• Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Chocolate Chips
• Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
• Step 8: Bake Cookies
• Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack
• How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• With a Glass of Milk
• Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Topped with Nutella
• Dusted with Powdered Sugar
• 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 natural peanut butter?
• How do I make these cookies healthier?
• Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
• What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps in this recipe ensure that even novice bakers can whip up delicious cookies in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of peanut butter, banana, and chocolate chips creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Healthy Twist: Incorporating oats adds fiber and nutrition, making these cookies a better option for snacking.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a dessert or a quick breakfast on-the-go, these cookies fit into any part of your day.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Enjoy baking together with kids; they will love mashing bananas and scooping dough!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools before you start. Having everything ready makes it easier to follow the recipe without interruptions.

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: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when blending butter and sugars.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating dry ingredients from wet ones to ensure even mixing.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.

Ingredients

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

Wet 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

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. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it 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 light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it introduces air into the mixture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract. Ensure each ingredient is well incorporated before adding the next.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agent evenly.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture. Beat until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your cookies soft.

Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Chocolate Chips

Gently mix in the mashed bananas and chocolate chips until well incorporated. This adds sweetness and texture to your cookies.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Use a large cookie scoop to drop scoops of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about two inches apart as they will spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake for approximately 12 minutes or until the edges are browned and cookies appear set. Remove them from the oven when done.

Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack

Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving. This helps them firm up nicely while enhancing their flavor!

Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter Banana Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious on their own but can also be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience:

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of peanut butter and banana.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream in between for a fun treat.

Topped with Nutella

• Spread a layer of Nutella on top of each cookie for an extra indulgent twist.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• A light sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a touch of sweetness and elegance to the cookies.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

To make your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper 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 time allows, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and texture.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast to the cookies’ texture.

3. Classic Milkshake: A creamy milkshake complements the flavors perfectly, making it a delightful treat.

4. Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses to provide a savory balance to the sweet cookies.

5. Nut Trail Mix: A crunchy nut mix can add texture and is perfect for snacking alongside cookies.

6. Hot Chocolate: This warm beverage pairs beautifully, especially during colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe but not overly mushy. This ensures the right sweetness and texture in your cookies.
• Skipping the Oats: Oats are essential for adding texture and chewiness. Don’t omit them; they balance the recipe beautifully.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for flour, sugar, and other ingredients to avoid uneven cookies.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Keep an eye on baking time. Pull them out when they’re just set to maintain a soft center.
• Too Much Mixing: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Freeze cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping after a minute until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well! Just ensure it’s creamy and well-mixed before using.

How do I make these cookies healthier?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use honey instead of sugar.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. They’re perfect for family gatherings or as an after-school snack. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll love how easy it is!