Banana bread has been a household favorite for decades, but what if you could enjoy the same comforting flavor in cookie form? That’s where these Best Banana Bread Cookies come in. They’re soft, chewy, slightly crisp on the edges, and carry that nostalgic sweetness and spice of classic banana bread. These cookies are the perfect solution for when you’ve got ripe bananas lying around and don’t feel like baking an entire loaf. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, versatile with endless mix-in options, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re enjoying them with coffee in the morning, packing them for a snack, or serving them as a casual dessert, these cookies fit every occasion.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 medium bananas)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• ½ cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking.

2. In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and set them aside. Riper bananas will provide more natural sweetness and better texture.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates the base of the dough and ensures your cookies have the right texture.

4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas to the butter mixture and stir until fully incorporated.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Combining dry ingredients separately ensures everything mixes evenly.

6. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until no flour streaks remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

7. Stir in the rolled oats, then add optional mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

8. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart as the cookies will spread slightly.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set.

10. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrients (per cookie, makes about 20 cookies)

• Calories: 140

• Protein: 2g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fat: 6g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 10g

• Potassium: 150mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with these banana bread cookies because they’re everything you want in a treat—moist, chewy, and naturally sweet from bananas. Unlike typical cookies that rely heavily on sugar, these strike the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. They’re easy to make, requiring just one bowl for mixing and simple pantry ingredients. Another reason they’re special? They’re endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer chocolate, nuts, or even dried fruits, you can make them suit your taste every single time. These cookies are also great for kids, adults, or anyone who loves the cozy flavor of banana bread in a grab-and-go form.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Banana bread itself has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1930s. During the Great Depression, resourceful home cooks refused to waste food, and ripe bananas became a baking star when combined with flour and sugar to create the first banana breads. Over the years, this comfort food transformed into a staple recipe across households worldwide. The idea of banana bread cookies was born from that same spirit of creativity—taking the familiar flavors of banana bread and reshaping them into something new, easy to share, and quicker to prepare. The inspiration for these cookies lies in merging tradition with modern convenience, creating a recipe that still honors its roots.

Ingredient Spotlight

The hero of this recipe is undoubtedly the ripe banana. Bananas not only provide sweetness but also act as a natural binder and moisture source, which keeps the cookies soft without needing too much fat. Oats are another key ingredient, bringing chewiness and adding fiber. Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, turning simple cookies into a cozy treat. Nuts like walnuts or pecans bring a nutty crunch that balances the softness of the dough. Chocolate chips or raisins give bursts of flavor that make each bite exciting. Every ingredient plays a role in creating balance—sweet, spiced, chewy, and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These cookies store exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep or snacking throughout the week. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week without losing their texture. If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. To reheat, simply pop one in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, and you’ll have that warm, fresh-baked taste all over again.

Common Variations to Try

This recipe is a blank canvas, and there are countless ways to switch it up. For a healthier twist, swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour. If you want them vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg and use plant-based butter. Love tropical flavors? Add shredded coconut and dried pineapple for a sunny variation. For spice enthusiasts, increase the cinnamon and add a pinch of cloves or cardamom. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cooled cookies for an indulgent finish. The flexibility of this recipe means you’ll never get bored.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana bread cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. They taste amazing alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat. For a lighter option, pair them with a glass of cold milk or a vanilla latte. If you’re serving them as dessert, try plating them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread, served next to fresh fruit and yogurt for balance. However you choose to pair them, these cookies hold their own beautifully.

Health Benefits

While these cookies feel indulgent, they carry several nutritional benefits. Bananas are rich in potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function. They also provide natural energy and vitamin B6. Oats add fiber that helps with digestion and can keep you feeling fuller longer. Nuts provide heart-healthy fats and protein, while cinnamon offers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Because bananas act as a natural sweetener, you can reduce the amount of refined sugar needed compared to traditional cookie recipes. That makes them a smarter choice when you’re craving something sweet but still want a bit of nourishment.

Conclusion

The Best Banana Bread Cookies are proof that sometimes the best recipes come from reimagining old favorites. They deliver all the comfort and warmth of banana bread but in a compact, shareable form that’s perfect for modern life. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and delicious every single time, these cookies are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking them to use up ripe bananas, share with friends, or enjoy as a cozy snack, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Next time you see bananas browning on your counter, skip the loaf pan and try these cookies—you won’t regret it.