Embrace the sweetness of bananas in a new and exciting way with these delightful cookies. Packed with oats, chocolate chips, pecans, and of course, bananas, these cookies are a special treat that’s not only delicious but also easy to make. They are perfect for a quick snack, a school lunchbox surprise, or a sweet ending to any meal.
Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are commonly found in a home kitchen. However, if you don’t usually bake, you might need to buy baking essentials like baking powder and baking soda from a supermarket. Additionally, the recipe calls for large flake oats, which may not be a staple in every kitchen. When shopping, be sure to choose ripe bananas for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Banana Delight Cookies
All-purpose flour: This is the base for the cookies, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies.
Brown sugar: A type of sugar with a distinctive molasses flavor used to sweeten and moisten the cookies.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Baking powder: Another leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the cookies.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a comforting flavor.
Large flake oats: These oats give the cookies a chewy texture and hearty flavor.
Butter: It adds richness and helps in browning.
Egg: It binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla: Adds a subtle sweet, creamy flavor.
Mashed bananas: The star ingredient that gives the cookies their unique flavor and moistness.
Chocolate chips: They melt into the cookies, creating pockets of chocolatey goodness.
Chopped pecans: These add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
One reader, Goober Sheehan says:
These banana delight cookies are a game-changer! The combination of bananas, chocolate chips, and pecans creates a heavenly flavor. The texture is perfect, and they're so easy to make. I can't get enough of these delightful treats!
Essential Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Banana Delight Cookies
How to preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
How to whisk dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and oats until well combined.
How to cream butter and sugars: In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
How to mix wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, then mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla until well combined.
How to combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
How to fold in chocolate chips and nuts: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans until evenly distributed in the cookie dough.
How to drop cookie dough: Drop heaping tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
How to bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
How to cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How To Make Banana Cookies
The best thing about oatmeal cookies is its texture. Now you can enjoy the texture of oatmeal cookies with sweet flavor in this banana cookies recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1 ¾cupall-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ tsp.baking soda
- ½ tsp.baking powder
- ½ tsp.salt
- 1tspCinnamon
- 1 ¼cup large flake oats
- ⅔ cup buttersoftened
- 1egg
- 1tsp.vanilla
- 1cupmashed bananas
- 1cupChocolate Chips
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and oats together.
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Cream the butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in the egg.
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Mix in mashed bananas and vanilla. Add in the flour mixture a bit at a time until combined. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts.
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Drop by heaping tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets. Bake in preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 4808.99kcal
- Fat: 276.14g
- Saturated Fat: 126.38g
- Trans Fat: 7.45g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 95.74g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 34.97g
- Carbohydrates: 563.08g
- Fiber: 30.75g
- Sugar: 349.76g
- Protein: 51.88g
- Cholesterol: 493.43mg
- Sodium: 2290.73mg
- Calcium: 704.16mg
- Potassium: 1526.08mg
- Iron: 17.74mg
- Vitamin A: 1558.06µg
- Vitamin C: 1.78mg
Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Banana Delight Cookies
When mashing the bananas, ensure they are ripe for optimal sweetness and moisture. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they are easier to mash and have a stronger banana flavor. Also, when combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Instead, stir until just combined to keep your cookies light and tender.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Banana Delight Cookies
Plan: Before you start, gather all your ingredients and equipment. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute trips to the store.
Organize: Arrange your work station so that everything is easily accessible. This will streamline the cooking process and minimize time spent searching for items.
Prep: Chop, measure, and prepare all your ingredients before you begin. This will save time during the cooking process and keep you organized.
Multi-task: Look for opportunities to combine tasks, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering on the stove. This will help you make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Clean as you go: Wash utensils and dishes as you cook to avoid a big mess at the end. This will make the post-cooking cleanup much quicker and more manageable.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, blenders, and stand mixers to speed up prep work and cooking tasks.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could cost you time in the long run. Following the instructions carefully will help you achieve the best results efficiently.
Prioritize: Focus on the most time-sensitive tasks first, such as boiling water or preheating the oven, to ensure that everything comes together smoothly.
Substitute Ingredients For Banana Cookies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the cookies, making them a bit healthier.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies, and it also provides a unique flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor to brown sugar, making it a suitable substitute.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, but it may affect the texture and rise of the cookies.
baking powder - Substitute with yeast: Yeast can be used as a substitute for baking powder, but it requires proofing and may alter the flavor of the cookies.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor and enhance the overall taste of the cookies.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can add a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the cookies, complementing the bananas and chocolate.
large flake oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to the cookies, adding a unique twist.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor and moisture to the cookies, making them dairy-free.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cookies, making them suitable for a vegan diet.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a distinct nutty flavor and aroma to the cookies, enhancing their overall taste.
bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can add moisture and natural sweetness to the cookies, and it also complements the other ingredients well.
chocolate chips - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can add a tart and chewy texture to the cookies, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the cookies, making them a suitable alternative.
Creative Ways to Present This Delightful Treat
Elevate the cookie: Present the cookies on a beautiful platter or wooden board, garnished with fresh banana slices and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Artful arrangement: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, alternating with clusters of fresh berries and a drizzle of melted chocolate for a visually stunning presentation.
Gourmet plating: Serve the cookies on individual dessert plates, accompanied by a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream and a delicate caramel sauce for a sophisticated and indulgent dessert experience.
Edible garnishes: Garnish each cookie with a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans and a dusting of edible gold leaf for a luxurious and decadent touch.
Elevated serving vessel: Present the cookies on a tiered dessert stand, accompanied by a selection of gourmet teas or coffee for an elevated and refined serving experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Delicious Banana Cookies
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing them together.
- Baking sheets: Flat metal sheets used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
- Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets to prevent food from sticking.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and cooking food by exposing it to dry heat.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, and flipping foods.
- Cooling rack: A rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Banana Delight Cookies
Allow the banana delight cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. To maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out, you can place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies soft.
Store the container or bag of cookies at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent melting or spoilage.
If you want to freeze the banana delight cookies for later enjoyment, follow these steps:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the cookies are frozen solid. This initial freezing step prevents the cookies from sticking together when stored.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Store the cookies in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen banana delight cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up slightly before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Banana Delight Cookies
The best way to reheat leftover banana delight cookies is to preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they're warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method helps to restore the texture and flavor of the cookies, making them taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave, although this method may result in a softer, chewier texture. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. If they're not warm enough, continue heating them in 5-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the chocolate chips to melt and the cookies to become too soft.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat them for 2-3 minutes, or until they're warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is particularly useful if you only need to reheat a small batch of cookies.
If you want to add a touch of extra flavor and moisture to your leftover cookies, try wrapping them in a damp paper towel before microwaving them for 10-15 seconds. The steam from the paper towel will help to soften the cookies and infuse them with a subtle hint of moisture, making them taste fresher and more delicious.
Finally, if you have the time and patience, you can try reheating your leftover banana delight cookies in a pan on the stovetop. Place a non-stick pan over low heat and add the cookies in a single layer. Cover the pan with a lid and heat the cookies for 1-2 minutes, or until they're warmed through and slightly crispy on the bottom. Flip the cookies over and heat them for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until they're evenly warmed and crispy on both sides.
Fascinating Trivia About Banana Delight Cookies
The cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of bananas with the richness of chocolate chips and the crunch of pecans. They are a perfect way to use up overripe bananas and create a delicious snack.
Is Making Banana Delight Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
This banana delight cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and oats, are pantry staples and relatively inexpensive. The addition of bananas and chocolate chips may slightly increase the cost, but they are still affordable. With a rating of 9/10 for cost-effectiveness, this recipe offers a delightful treat without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly option for a sweet dessert.
Are Banana Delight Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The banana delight cookies recipe, while containing some nutritious ingredients like bananas and oats, is overall not a particularly healthy treat. Here's why:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar (both white and brown), which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues when consumed in large quantities.
- Butter is used as the primary fat source, which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
- The inclusion of chocolate chips adds more sugar and fat to the cookies, further increasing their calorie density.
However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities:
- Bananas provide a natural sweetness and are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.
- Oats are a whole grain that offer dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and promote feelings of fullness.
- Pecans contain healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar by using ripe bananas as the primary sweetener and cutting back on the added white and brown sugar.
- Replace some or all of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or coconut oil.
- Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour to increase the nutrient density.
- Use dark chocolate chips with a high cocoa content (70% or above) instead of regular chocolate chips, as they contain more antioxidants and less sugar.
- Increase the amount of oats for added fiber and nutrients, and reduce the overall amount of flour used.
- Consider adding other healthy ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseed meal, or dried fruits (in moderation) to boost the nutritional value of the cookies.
Editor's Opinion: Why Banana Delight Cookies Are a Must-Try
This banana delight cookies recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of mashed bananas adds a natural sweetness and moistness to the cookies, while the addition of chocolate chips and pecans provides a satisfying crunch and richness. The incorporation of oats gives a hearty and wholesome element to the cookies. The balance of spices and sweetness is well executed, resulting in a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, these cookies are a delightful and indulgent treat that is sure to please any palate.
Enhance Your Banana Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Cookie Recipes to Try Besides Banana Delight Cookies
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Banana Delight Cookies
Why trust this Banana Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of chocolate chips and the crunch of pecans. The use of cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor, while the oats provide a hearty texture. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and delicious cookie that is sure to please any palate. With the addition of mashed bananas, these cookies are not only flavorful but also moist and tender. Trust in the harmony of these ingredients to create a truly delightful and satisfying treat.
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