Making Easy Banana Cookies is a fun and simple way to whip up a delicious treat while also staying healthy. These cookies use ripe bananas, which not only add natural sweetness but also bring a wealth of nutrients to the table. With their soft, chewy texture and delightful flavor, they are a perfect dessert or snack for the whole family. Let’s dive into why you will love this recipe and how to prepare these easy banana cookies!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
These easy banana cookies are a great choice for anyone looking for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. They are low in added sugars, thanks to the natural sweetness from the bananas, making them a good fit for those watching their sugar intake. This cookie recipe is also quick for meal prep; you can mix the ingredients in one bowl, and they bake in about 10 minutes! This makes for a perfect snack for busy days, a guilt-free dessert, or even a post-workout treat. Plus, they’re a healthier version of traditional cookies, offering a fun way to enjoy a homemade treat that fits into a balanced lifestyle.
HOW TO MAKE Easy Banana Cookies
Making Easy Banana Cookies is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients. Let’s go over the necessary equipment and ingredients you’ll need.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium cookie scoop
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, divided
- 1 box white cake mix (16.25 ounces)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the vegetable oil and egg to the mashed bananas, mixing well to combine.
- Next, add 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and the cake mix, stirring until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. The dough will be very thick at this point.
- Using a medium cookie scoop, about 1.5 tablespoons, scoop the batter and place each scoop about 2 inches apart on a cookie sheet.
- Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the remaining graham cracker crumbs.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and the tops are starting to brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool for 10 minutes before removing them from the baking sheet.
HOW TO SERVE Easy Banana Cookies
These Easy Banana Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance their health benefits even further. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit for added nutrients, or pair them with a small portion of Greek yogurt for extra protein. When it comes to portion control, aim for one or two cookies at a time to enjoy their sweetness without overindulging.
STORAGE & FREEZING Easy Banana Cookies
Store your Easy Banana Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them into the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked taste!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
For a balanced snack, you might serve these cookies alongside a handful of nuts or a dollop of nut butter. This adds healthy fats and protein to your meal or snack, making it more satisfying and nutritious. You could also pair them with a smoothie made from leafy greens and fruits for an extra nutrient boost.
VARIATIONS
- Healthier Version: Swap in whole wheat flour for some of the graham cracker crumbs to increase the fiber content. You can also add a tablespoon of chia seeds for an added health kick.
- High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: Substitute almond flour for the graham cracker crumbs. You can also add in a scoop of protein powder for a boost while still keeping the cookies delicious.
- Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version: If you prefer using an air fryer, adjust the temperature to 320 degrees F and cook the cookies in batches for about 8-10 minutes, or until they look golden brown.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! To make these cookies vegan, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for a few minutes until it thickens).
Are these cookies diabetic-friendly?
While they use natural sugars, it is best to consume them in moderation if you are diabetic. The ripe bananas contain sugars that could raise blood sugar levels, so it’s important to balance this with other low-sugar foods in your diet.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container, these cookies will last up to three days at room temperature. If you freeze them, they can last for about three months.
What is the nutritional info of Easy Banana Cookies?
Each cookie is low in calories because it primarily uses bananas instead of high-sugar ingredients. When made as directed, you can expect them to have a good balance of protein and fiber, especially if you choose to add in some nutritious variations.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easy Banana Cookies
These Easy Banana Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough by scooping it into portions and placing them on a baking tray to freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven or air fryer without thawing—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious cookies anytime, even on those busy days when you feel short on time!
Easy Banana Cookies bring taste and health together beautifully. They are low in added sugars, easy to prepare, and can fit into various dietary preferences. Whether you need a sweet treat or a snack before hitting the gym, these cookies offer a satisfying experience that you can feel good about. Treat yourself to these Easy Banana Cookies—your taste buds and your healthy lifestyle will thank you!
Easy Banana Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the vegetable oil and egg to the mashed bananas, mixing well to combine.
- Next, add 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and the cake mix, stirring until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop the batter and place each scoop about 2 inches apart on a cookie sheet.
- Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the remaining graham cracker crumbs.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and tops are starting to brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool for 10 minutes before removing them from the baking sheet.