Chocolate chip banana cookies have become my go-to treat for using up those perfectly ripe bananas that are just begging for a second life. I remember one summer afternoon, my kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of baking, and my kids were practically dancing with anticipation. These cookies are like a warm hug, combining the comforting flavor of banana bread with the irresistible chewiness of a classic cookie. They’re so wonderfully moist and packed with melty chocolate chips, making them the best chocolate chip banana cookies I’ve ever made. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a little slice of heaven that happens to be incredibly easy to make. Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this chocolate chip banana cookie recipe again and again:

• Perfect for Ripe Bananas: A fantastic way to avoid food waste and create something delicious.
• Incredible Flavor Combo: It’s like banana bread and a classic cookie had a delicious baby!
• Soft and Chewy Texture: You’ll get that satisfying chew with every bite.
• Bursting with Chocolate: Generous amounts of melty chocolate chips make these irresistible.
• Quick to Whip Up: From bowl to oven in just about 10 minutes.
• Kid-Approved: A guaranteed hit with little ones (and adults too!).
• Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the taste of freshly baked, homemade chocolate chip banana cookies.

Chocolate Chip Banana Cookie Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making the most delicious chocolate chip banana cookies. I love that this recipe uses simple pantry staples, plus those overripe bananas you’ve been meaning to use!

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – this provides the structure for our cookies.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – crucial for a little lift and chewiness, preventing them from being too flat.
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature – softened butter creams better with sugar, creating a lighter texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and crisp edges.
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar – adds moisture and a lovely caramel note, contributing to that chewy texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – a flavor enhancer that complements both banana and chocolate beautifully.
• 3/4 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2 bananas) – the star ingredient! The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful they are, making these truly banana cookies with chocolate chips.
• 1 large egg – acts as a binder and adds richness.
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or any chocolate chips of choice) – because what are chocolate chip banana cookies without plenty of melty chocolate?

How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

Making these delicious chocolate chip banana cookies is a breeze, and the process fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma. Get ready for some truly satisfying baking!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder. This dry mix ensures even distribution of leavening and salt.
3. Step 3: In a separate, larger bowl, cream together the 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the 3/4 cup mashed overripe bananas. Don’t worry if there are a few small butter bits; they’ll melt during baking.
4. Step 4: Add the 1 large egg to the banana-butter mixture and mix until everything is just combined. You’ll notice the batter starts to look rich and creamy.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle! This is where the base for your banana chocolate chip cookie recipe really comes together.
6. Step 6: Gently fold in the 1 cup dark chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The sight of all those chips folded in is a great cue that you’re making easy chocolate chip banana cookies.
7. Step 7: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one. They will spread as they bake.
8. Step 8: Bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set. The kitchen will smell absolutely divine!
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your wonderfully chewy chocolate chip banana cookies!

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

Want to elevate your cookie game? These little tricks will ensure your chocolate chip banana cookies are absolutely perfect every single time. I’ve learned a few things over the years that make a big difference!

• Use VERY ripe bananas: The darker and spottier, the better! They provide natural sweetness and that signature banana flavor.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough (optional but recommended): For even chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This also helps prevent them from spreading too much.
• Undermix the butter and sugar: A few small lumps of butter are okay. They create pockets of deliciousness as they melt.

What’s the secret to perfect banana chocolate chip cookie recipe?

The biggest secret is using very ripe, almost black bananas. They contribute natural sweetness and moisture, which is key for that perfect texture in your banana chocolate chip cookie recipe. For more on the science of baking, check out King Arthur Baking’s ingredient properties guide.

Can I make easy chocolate chip banana cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the easy chocolate chip banana cookies dough up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. You can also freeze scooped dough balls for even longer storage. This is a great tip for busy bakers, similar to how you might prepare cinnamon roll dough ahead of time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with homemade chocolate chip banana cookies?

The most common mistake is using underripe bananas. Also, resist the urge to overmix the dough, which can make your homemade chocolate chip banana cookies tough. Finally, ensure your oven temperature is accurate for proper baking. Understanding oven temperatures is crucial for all baking, like when making apple pie.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

These delightful chocolate chip banana cookies are fantastic served warm right out of the oven, especially with a tall glass of cold milk. For an extra special treat, try topping a still-warm cookie with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – the contrast of hot and cold is divine! They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Imagine enjoying these banana chocolate chip cookies with a sprinkle of sea salt on top to really make the chocolate and banana flavors pop!

Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

Understanding the nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy these delightful chocolate chip banana cookies as part of a balanced diet. These numbers are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use.

• Calories: Approximately 150-180 per cookie
• Fat: Approximately 8-10g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4-5g
• Protein: Approximately 2-3g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 18-22g
• Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
• Sugar: Approximately 10-15g
• Sodium: Approximately 30-50mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

Once your delicious chocolate chip banana cookies are baked to perfection, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty. Make sure they are completely cooled on a wire rack before storing. This prevents steam from making them soggy. For short-term storage, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay wonderfully chewy and moist for about 3 to 4 days.

If you find yourself with a surplus of these amazing banana cookies with chocolate chips, don’t worry! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat them. For a quick reheat, pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or bake them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies

What makes chocolate chip banana cookies so moist?

The secret to those wonderfully moist chocolate chip banana cookies lies in the overripe bananas! Bananas are naturally high in moisture and natural sugars, which contribute to a tender crumb and prevent the cookies from drying out. Using softened butter and brown sugar also adds to the moisture content, creating a delightful chew.

Can I use frozen bananas for chocolate chip banana cookies?

Absolutely! Frozen bananas work perfectly for this chocolate chip banana cookie recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess water before mashing and adding them to your dough. This ensures the right consistency and flavor.

Why are my chocolate chip banana cookies flat?

If your banana chocolate chip cookies are coming out flat, it could be a few things. Using bananas that aren’t ripe enough can reduce the natural binding and moisture. Also, overmixing the dough or using too much butter can cause them to spread too much. Ensure you’re following the ingredient amounts precisely and mixing just until combined.

Can I make vegan chocolate chip banana cookies?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make vegan chocolate chip banana cookies! Simply swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter or coconut oil, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or other vegan egg replacer instead of the chicken egg. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free too!

Variations of Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic chocolate chip banana cookies, you’ll love experimenting with these fun twists! These variations add new textures and flavors, making every batch an adventure. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy this classic treat.

• Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies: For a heartier, chewier cookie, add 1/2 cup of rolled oats to the dry ingredients. This creates a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the banana and chocolate.
• White Chocolate Macadamia Banana Cookies: Swap the dark chocolate chips for creamy white chocolate chips and add 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts. This combination offers a sweet, nutty, and tropical twist on the original.
• Spiced Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies: Kick up the flavor by adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients. These warm spices complement the banana beautifully, making for a cozy treat.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies: Easily make these gluten-free chocolate chip banana cookies by substituting a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free for a safe and delicious option.

Print