Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comfort of banana bread with the fun of cookies, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies! These cookies are not just delicious; they bring a lovely warmth to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family celebration, these treats are sure to brighten up your day.

What I love most about this recipe is how it combines simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. The blend of ripe bananas and chocolate chips makes for an irresistible flavor that everyone adores. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be dreaming of these cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the soft texture and sweet flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you’re ready for a sweet treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of banana and chocolate is simply heavenly—it’s like having dessert for breakfast!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an after-school snack or serve them at parties; they’re always a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious cookie!

• 1 small overripe banana, mashed (it should measure 1/4 cup—if it’s more just discard the overflow)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup chocolate chips

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the Sweetener: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter (or vegetable oil), brown sugar, and mashed banana. Mixing these ingredients well is important because it ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully. The richness from the sugar combined with the sweetness of the banana sets the foundation for your cookies.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla

Next, add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. This step adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of your cookies. Mixing thoroughly helps them blend seamlessly into your batter.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in your dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. Stir until combined but be careful not to overmix! This helps develop those soft textures we all love without making them tough.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in those luscious chocolate chips! This step is key because it distributes that melty chocolate evenly throughout each cookie, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Cover your dough and let it sit while the oven preheats—this little pause allows the flour to hydrate fully.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 350°F. Once ready, scoop out about one-inch balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Remember, this dough will be slightly wet—that’s what makes these cookies so chewy!

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Bake your cookies for about 10 to 11 minutes until they puff up nicely but remain soft in the middle. They will continue cooking slightly as they cool on the baking sheet—this ensures that delightful chewy texture we’re after!

Step 7: Cool Down Before Enjoying

Allow your cookies to cool before diving in! It’s hard to wait when they smell so good, but letting them rest ensures they hold their shape perfectly while still being irresistibly soft.

And there you have it! You now have everything you need to create Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies that will warm hearts (and stomachs) everywhere! Enjoy every sweet moment!

Pro Tips for Making Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making the perfect soft and chewy banana chocolate chip cookies is all about a few simple tricks! Here are some pro tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, which makes cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and texture. It helps solidify the fats in the dough, leading to thicker cookies that spread less while baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them slightly underbaked in the center; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
• Store with Bread: To keep your cookies soft longer, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread helps maintain that delightful chewiness!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delicious cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or serving them at a gathering, here are some fun ways to present your banana chocolate chip cookies.

Garnishes

• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over each cookie adds an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans lightly on top for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cookie.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Almond Milk: A refreshing glass of vanilla almond milk pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
• Dairy-Free Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a dreamy dessert experience!
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a comforting pairing, perfect for afternoon snacks or cozy evenings.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be all set to enjoy your scrumptious Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent treat to have on hand for busy weeks or spontaneous cravings!

Storing Leftovers

• Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture.
• If you prefer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure you label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies again, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
• Enjoy that freshly baked taste anytime!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful cookies!

Can I use ripe bananas instead of overripe bananas for Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Using overripe bananas is best because they provide more natural sweetness and enhance the cookie’s moist texture. If your bananas are ripe but not overripe, you might want to add a bit more sugar.

How do I make sure my Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out soft?

To achieve that soft and chewy texture, make sure not to overbake them. The edges should be set while the middles remain slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.

Can I substitute ingredients in Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil or melted butter. For an egg-free version, try using unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg as a substitute.

How long do Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If frozen, they can stay fresh for about 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Soft and Chewy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies! Their delightful flavors and textures make them a special treat that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or savoring them later, I’m sure they’ll bring warmth and happiness into your home. Happy baking!