Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your home. But if you’re like me, you might find yourself wanting to shake things up a bit. Enter the Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies—a delightful twist on a classic that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! These cookies are soft, cake-like, and irresistibly delicious, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: Combines the beloved taste of banana bread with the fun of cookies.
• Soft and Chewy: These cookies have a cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps that even beginners can follow.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Sauté pan
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Cookie sheets
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup mashed bananas
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 stick butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the butter in a small sauté pan until it turns brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and add the white and brown sugars. Let sit for about 5 minutes to cool.
2. Pour the butter and sugar mixture into a large mixing bowl and add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Stir in the mashed bananas and sour cream until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the banana mixture.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts if using. Feel free to get creative with other additions like raisins or toffee bits.
6. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop a 1-inch ball of dough onto cookie sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-13 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
• Chill the Dough: This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove from the oven when edges are just browned for a soft texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding toffee bits or raisins for a different flavor twist.
• If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider using pecans instead of walnuts.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approx. 120 | Fat: 6g | Carbs: 16g | Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mashing.

How should I store these cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! Freeze dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful way to use up those ripe bananas in your kitchen. With their soft texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and let me know how they turn out in the comments below. Happy baking!