Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

These Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Combining the rich flavors of peanut butter and ripe bananas, these cookies are not only delicious but also packed with oats and chocolate chips. Their thick and cakey texture makes them a favorite among kids and adults alike. Whether you need a quick snack, a dessert for a gathering, or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with bananas and oats, these cookies offer a healthier twist on traditional desserts.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavor of chocolate chips mixed with peanut butter appeals to children, making them an excellent choice for family treats.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand; you can substitute different nuts or add dried fruits for variety.
• Perfect for Batch Cooking: With 24 servings, you can easily make these cookies in bulk for gatherings or to freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, ensure you have the right tools ready. These will help streamline the process and guarantee great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to cream ingredients together quickly, ensuring light and fluffy cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Having several mixing bowls allows for organized mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately before combining.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution during baking.
• Cookie scoop: This tool helps portion out cookie dough uniformly, ensuring even baking.

Ingredients

These cookies are thick and cakey, loaded with peanut butter, bananas, oats, and chocolate chips.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dry Mix

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Flavor Boost

• 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your mixer, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in two large eggs one at a time along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, stir together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the creamed mixture. Beat until just combined—do not overmix!

Step 6: Incorporate Bananas and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 3 mashed ripe bananas and 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips until they are well incorporated into the dough.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a large cookie scoop, drop scoops of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about two inches apart.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and set.

Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack

Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Banana Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with a few serving suggestions. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, these ideas will elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the richness of peanut butter and chocolate.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and sandwich your favorite ice cream in between for a delicious treat.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside banana slices or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds an extra touch of sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the flavors.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can turn these cookies into a more festive dessert option.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange them on a platter with other desserts for parties or gatherings to impress guests.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

To ensure your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

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  Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.

  
  
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  Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender and cakey.

  
  
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  Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help improve texture and prevent spreading during baking.

  
  
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  Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.

  
  
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  Experiment with add-ins: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for variety in flavor and texture.

  
  

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Pairing sides with your Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can enhance the overall experience. Here are some great options to consider:

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   Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness that balances the richness of the cookies.

   
   
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   Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy contrast that complements the cookies well.

   
   
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   Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide a savory balance to the sweet flavors.

   
   
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   Nut Trail Mix: A crunchy mix of assorted nuts adds texture and protein, making it a satisfying side.

   
   
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   Chocolate Milkshake: This indulgent drink pairs perfectly with cookies, creating a nostalgic dessert experience.

   
   
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   Carrot Sticks with Hummus: For a healthier option, serve crunchy carrots with hummus for dipping—it’s nutritious and delicious!

   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not using ripe bananas: Using unripe bananas may result in less flavor and sweetness. Make sure to use medium ripe bananas for the best taste.
• Incorrect measuring of ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and cakey.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack helps maintain their texture. Skipping this can leave them soggy.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect cookie consistency. Always preheat before placing your cookies inside.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last up to one week.

Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then bake cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Peanut Butter Banana Cookies unique?

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies combine creamy peanut butter with sweet bananas, creating a deliciously unique flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! If you prefer a bit of crunch, feel free to substitute crunchy peanut butter in the recipe.

Are these cookies healthy?

While they contain sugar and butter, they also include oats and bananas, which add nutrients. Moderation is key!

Can I customize my Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap chocolate chips for dried fruit, or even try different nut butters based on your preference.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly browned and set while the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. These cookies are perfect for family gatherings or when you want a cozy treat at home. Try making them today!

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