Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of gooey texture and rich chocolate flavor. These cookies are not only delicious but also healthy, making them a great option for snack time, dessert, or even breakfast! With ripe bananas providing natural sweetness, along with whole wheat flour for added fiber, they are nutritious and satisfying. Whip these up in just 20 minutes and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: Ready in just 20 minutes, these cookies are perfect for those busy days when you crave something sweet.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour and ripe bananas, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe uses coconut oil and applesauce instead of butter or eggs, making it suitable for vegan diets.
• Gooey and Delicious: The combination of melted chocolate chips and soft cookie texture creates an irresistible treat.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them warm from the oven or pack them for lunch as a tasty snack.

Tools and Preparation

To make Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify the process. Having the right equipment ensures that your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet promotes even baking, preventing burnt bottoms.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your cookies come out just right every time.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

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How to Make Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Coconut Oil and Brown Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the coconut oil and brown sugar until well combined. This will create a smooth base for your cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add the mashed banana, applesauce, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Stir until everything is blended smoothly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift in the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently stir to combine all ingredients until a dough forms.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Carefully fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the mixture. Use a spatula to ensure an even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop for spreading while baking.

Step 7: Add Extra Chocolate Chips

Top each cookie dough mound with an additional 3-4 chocolate chips before placing them in the oven.

Step 8: Bake & Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Once baked, transfer them from the baking sheet to a wire rack to cool before enjoying!

How to Serve Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert or a snack, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a chilled glass of almond milk for a refreshing treat.

Warmed with Peanut Butter

• Spread a layer of peanut butter on a warm cookie for an extra creamy texture.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich; simply add your favorite vegan ice cream in between.

On a Breakfast Platter

• Serve these cookies alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced breakfast option.

As Party Favors

• Package them individually in cute bags to give away at parties or gatherings.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your cookies with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, keep these tips in mind:

• 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 the whole wheat flour into the measuring cup and level it off. This helps prevent dense cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Add Extra Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top before baking for an appealing presentation and extra sweetness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations.
• Cool Before Serving: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before enjoying them. This helps set their structure and enhances taste.

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Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delicious cookies pair well with several side dishes, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast to the soft cookie texture.
3. Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars complement the soft, gooey nature of the cookies while providing extra nutrients.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The richness of chocolate-covered strawberries pairs beautifully with banana-flavored treats.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy chia pudding offers a nutritious side that’s also fun to eat alongside your cookies.
6. Trail Mix: A handful of trail mix provides crunch and is easy to prepare, enhancing your cookie experience.
7. Homemade Smoothies: Blend up your favorite fruits with plant-based milk for a refreshing drink that goes perfectly with cookies.
8. Coconut Chips: Toasted coconut chips add crunch and tropical flavors that complement the banana in these delightful treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few key elements. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Ripe Bananas: Using unripe bananas can lead to cookies lacking sweetness and flavor. Always choose ripe, spotty bananas for the best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the texture and taste. Use precise measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough instead of chewy. Gently fold ingredients until just combined for a softer texture.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking cookies for too long can result in dryness. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they’re golden brown at the edges.
• Forgetting to Cool Properly: Transferring hot cookies directly onto a cooling rack can cause them to break. Let them sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

• For longer storage, freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey texture.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet for 1-2 minutes, flipping occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter cookie, but whole wheat adds extra fiber and nutrition.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat flour.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts or dried fruit along with the chocolate chips.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your leftover Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile and nutritious. You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s ready in just 20 minutes!