Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds, let me introduce you to my cherished Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. Picture this: the warm, comforting flavor of banana bread meets the gooey goodness of chocolate chip cookies. It’s a match made in dessert heaven! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick sweet fix or family gatherings where everyone is eager to indulge.

These cookies are not just delicious; they also bring back fond memories of baking with my loved ones. The aroma that fills your home while they’re baking is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have these cookies ready in no time! With just 20 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of baking, they’re perfect for any occasion.
• Family Favorite: Everyone will love the combination of flavors. These cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Delight: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for a rainy day. They freeze beautifully too!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Using simple ingredients makes these cookies feel good to eat. You can enjoy them without any guilt!

Ingredients You’ll Need

We’re keeping it simple with wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. This makes preparing your Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies both fun and stress-free!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup (113g) butter, melted and cooled (should be creamy, not fully liquid)
• 3/4 cup (165g) tightly packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (80ml) mashed ripe banana (from one small banana; ensure accurate measurement)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (215g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (125g) dark chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup (50g) chopped walnuts

Variations

One of the best things about these cookies is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

• Add More Fruit: Swap in some chopped nuts or dried fruit like cranberries for added texture and flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: If you’re looking for nut-free cookies, simply leave out the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
• Different Chocolate: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips instead if dark chocolate isn’t your favorite.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a cozy twist that’s perfect for fall!

How to Make Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by melting your butter until it’s creamy but not fully liquid—this will give your cookies that chewy texture we all love. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. The molasses in brown sugar adds richness, which is key for flavor!

Step 2: Mix in the Bananas

Next, add in your mashed ripe banana, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined. The banana not only brings sweetness but also keeps our cookies moist and tender.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Mixing slowly helps ensure everything combines evenly without overworking the dough.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Now it’s time for some fun! Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped walnuts into your dough. This step is crucial as it ensures every cookie has those delightful bursts of chocolatey goodness.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake these beauties for about 10 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center—trust me; they’ll firm up as they cool!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies! Enjoy them warm from the oven or share with friends; either way, I promise they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking should be a joyful experience, and with a few handy tips, your cookies will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots; they are the key to achieving that rich banana flavor.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, while gentle mixing keeps them chewy.

• Chill the dough: Allowing your cookie dough to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking helps solidify the fats. This leads to thicker cookies that stay chewy in the center.

• Adjust baking time for chewiness: For cookies that remain chewy, take them out of the oven when they are slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet even after being removed from the oven.

• Use quality chocolate chips: Investing in good-quality dark chocolate chips enhances the overall taste of your cookies. Their rich flavor complements the sweetness of banana beautifully.

How to Serve Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delicious cookies can shine on their own, but with a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle adds a touch of sweetness and makes your cookies look extra inviting.
• Add a dollop of almond butter: A small scoop on top adds creaminess and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with banana and chocolate.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a vibrant contrast to the sweetness of your cookies while keeping things light.
• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream: The creamy texture and subtle vanilla flavor create an indulgent treat when paired with warm cookies.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea complements the sweet flavors beautifully, creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Coconut yogurt parfait: Layered coconut yogurt with granola and berries provides a satisfying crunch that balances out the softness of the cookies.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to enjoy your Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready to go whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up. Here’s how to store them effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a crispier texture, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful cookies.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and flavor. The cookies may have a slightly denser texture but will still be delicious!

What can I use instead of walnuts in Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, feel free to replace them with pecans, almonds, or simply omit them altogether. The cookies will still turn out beautifully!

How do I know when my Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add more chocolate chips to my Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! If you love chocolate, go ahead and add an extra half cup of dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen! These Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the best elements of both beloved treats into one delightful bite. They’re perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. Enjoy making these scrumptious cookies, and don’t hesitate to invite friends or family to join in on the fun! Happy baking!