Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips, and these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies truly capture that essence. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, soft cookie that bursts with the sweet aroma of bananas, while the chocolate melts in your mouth. This delightful treat is perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all on your own. Let’s dive into this warm and inviting recipe that combines the best of both worlds: banana bread and chocolate chip cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma as it comes together!
- Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth, creating a rich banana base.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to stay tender!
- Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using, until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating little pockets of joy in each bite.
- Using a tablespoon, drop portions of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and inviting. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma!
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and enjoy them at your leisure.
Notes or Tips
For an even richer flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of warmth. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, although I doubt they’ll last that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe offers a chance to practice your creaming technique, which is essential for creating light and fluffy baked goods. Remember to cream the butter and sugars until they are pale and fluffy, and always mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies. Folding in chocolate chips and nuts carefully ensures they are evenly distributed without deflating your dough.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes! You can freeze the raw cookie dough in portions. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for bananas? If you find yourself without ripe bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be a great alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only a delightful way to use up ripe bananas, but they also bring warmth and joy to every bite. Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for a sweet treat for the family, or just wanting something special for yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Enjoy baking and share the happiness that comes with these delicious cookies!