These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of gooey goodness and nutritious ingredients. Made with ripe bananas and wholesome whole wheat flour, these cookies are not only delicious but also a healthier option for dessert lovers. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies fit any occasion. Plus, they are quick to whip up, ready in just 20 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour and ripe bananas, these cookies are packed with nutrients.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, you can satisfy your cravings in no time.
- Vegan-Friendly: Using coconut oil and applesauce means everyone can enjoy them, regardless of dietary preferences.
- Versatile Recipe: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast on the go.
- Deliciously Gooey: The combination of chocolate chips and mashed bananas creates a delightful texture that is hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your delicious cookies, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients smoothly.
- Baking sheet: Provides the surface for baking your cookies evenly.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies:
For the Cookies
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus more for topping
How to Make Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies later.
Step 2: Cream the Coconut Oil and Brown Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the coconut oil and brown sugar until well combined. This step helps achieve a fluffy cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is nicely incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently into the dough. Scoop out approximately one tablespoon of dough per cookie onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Top with More Chips
Top each cookie with an additional 3-4 chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey finish.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Once baked, transfer them from the baking sheet to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying!
How to Serve Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
These delicious Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat, here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Plant-Based Milk
- Almond Milk: A refreshing and nutty complement that pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Coconut Milk: Adds a tropical twist and enhances the coconut flavor in the cookies.
Warmed Up with Dairy-Free Ice Cream
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The classic choice offers a creamy balance to the chewy cookies.
- Chocolate Coconut Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this rich option takes indulgence to the next level.
As a Dessert Platter
- Fresh Fruit: Slices of banana and strawberries add a fresh touch that complements the cookies.
- Nut Butter Dips: Serve with almond or peanut butter for an extra protein boost and a bit of creaminess.
With Coffee or Tea
- Hot Brewed Coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing choice, especially chamomile or mint, that complements the flavors nicely.
How to Perfect Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
To make your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies even better, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time.
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon whole wheat flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill dough if needed: If your cookie dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking for better shape.
- Watch baking time closely: Every oven is different; check your cookies around 10 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies
Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies make a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your enjoyment. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and mixed berries for a nutritious combination.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Nutty Trail Mix: Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a crunchy contrast that’s also healthy.
- Smoothie Bowl: Top your favorite smoothie with slices of banana and coconut flakes for added texture.
- Mini Vegan Cheesecakes: These bite-sized desserts provide a creamy element that pairs well with chocolate flavors.
- Chia Pudding: A light and healthy option that adds an interesting texture alongside your cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Using unripe bananas: Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. Unripe bananas will result in less sweet cookies.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Stir just until combined for a softer texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack helps them firm up. Don’t skip this step or they might fall apart.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients. Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right cookie consistency.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect the cooking time and overall texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- You can freeze them for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan over low heat for a couple of minutes, covered, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with gluten-free flour blends to make them gluten-free.
How do I make these cookies sweeter?
If you prefer sweeter cookies, you can add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or increase the amount of chocolate chips.
Can I replace coconut oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable oil or melted vegan butter if desired.
How long do these cookies last?
These cookies will last about 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen properly.
Are Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies healthy?
They are healthier than traditional cookies because they use whole wheat flour, ripe bananas, and coconut oil, making them nutritious and delicious!
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also offer a deliciously healthy twist on your classic cookie recipe. They are perfect as a snack or dessert, and you can customize them by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy guilt-free indulgence!
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