Introduction
There’s something simply magical about the combination of bananas and chocolate. Imagine the comforting aroma of warm banana bread wafting through your kitchen as you bake these delightful Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each bite is a perfect balance of soft, chewy cookie and the rich sweetness of chocolate, all while being infused with the nostalgic taste of homemade banana bread. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing with friends, these cookies are bound to bring smiles and a hint of indulgence to your day!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a perfect surface for your cookies to bake on.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with a hand mixer or a wooden spoon until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, stirring until everything is well combined and the aroma of banana fills your kitchen.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender!
- Now, fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set. The smell will be irresistible!
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes or Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor; the browner, the better!
- For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking to enhance the sweet and savory contrast.
- If you prefer a more chewy cookie, underbake them slightly—they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to three months; just seal them in an airtight container!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugars, you’ll want to make sure the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a lovely texture. This process is crucial for creating the perfect cookie. Also, folding in the chocolate chips gently is important to avoid over mixing. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so remember to be gentle! Baking at the right temperature is key, so an oven thermometer can help ensure your cookies bake perfectly every time.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted, but it may create a denser cookie. You may want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
What can I add to make these cookies extra special?
Consider adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch, or swap the chocolate chips for dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist!
Conclusion
Baking these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies is more than just a delightful treat; it’s about creating cherished memories in your kitchen. With their rich banana flavor and sweet chocolatey bursts, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Perfect for lunchboxes, afternoon snacks, or a cozy dessert, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your household. So grab those overripe bananas, and let’s get baking!