Name: Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies to Swoon Over
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 87 min
Ingredients: 1 small Ripe Banana (mashed (about 1/3 cup)); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted and cooled); 1 cup Brown Sugar (can substitute granulated sugar); 1 large Egg Yolk (acts as a binding agent); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (careful not to overmix); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 cup Chocolate Chips (semisweet or dark chocolate); 1/2 cup Walnuts (optional)

In a cozy kitchen, the scent of warm baked goods wafts through the air, inviting everyone to gather around. Today, I’m sharing a delightful recipe for Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, a sweet fusion that brings together the comforting flavors of banana bread and the irresistible allure of chocolate chip cookies. Not only are these cookies a breeze to whip up, but they also combine the best of both worlds—soft and chewy texture with a burst of sweet banana goodness. They’re the perfect pick-me-up for busy afternoons or a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Curious to see just how easy it is to make these treats? Let’s dive in!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Satisfying your sweet tooth: These chewy cookies blend banana bread’s warmth with rich chocolate, creating a flavor combination you can’t resist.

Easy to make: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Time-saving: Forget complicated baking! This mix-and-chill method results in delicious treats in under an hour, making it a go-to for busy days.

Versatile delights: Whether enjoyed warm or frozen, you can savor these cookies in countless ways or even elevate your dessert game by serving them with a scoop of ice cream!

Crowd favorite: These cookies are sure to impress guests and family members alike, just like my famous Garlic Bread Grilled sandwiches. Try them out, and watch them disappear!

Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Ripe Banana – Provides natural sweetness and banana flavor; use one small banana mashed to 1/3 cup for the best taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s melted and cooled to a creamy state to avoid greasiness.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes both sweetness and chewiness; you can substitute granulated sugar for a less moist cookie texture.
• Egg Yolk – Acts as a binding agent, keeping the cookies tender and adding structure.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite delightful.
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for cookie consistency; be careful not to overmix to maintain that chewy texture.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise beautifully, leaving them soft and fluffy.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors, giving depth to your cookies.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, aromatic notes that elevate the cookie’s taste.
• Chocolate Chips – Essential for sweetness and texture; semisweet or dark chocolate is best. Feel free to sprinkle extras on top for a bakery-style finish.
• Walnuts (optional) – Adds a lovely crunch and extra flavor; can be omitted for nut-free cookies.

Enjoy ready-to-bake Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies that are sure to grace your table with warmth and joy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and let it cool slightly until creamy. Add 1 cup of brown sugar to the bowl, and mix together until well blended and smooth. This forms the rich base of your chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies, creating a perfect mixture that enhances the cookie’s texture.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in 1 mashed ripe banana, which should provide about 1/3 cup, along with 1 egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency, ensuring the banana is well incorporated with the butter and sugar. This step brings out the delicious banana flavor that will shine through in every bite of your cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Next, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, then mix until fully combined. The baking soda will help your cookies rise, while the salt and cinnamon enhance the overall flavor profile of your chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. This aroma will leave you wanting to bake more!

Step 4: Fold in Flour and Chocolate Chips
Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, folding gently until no dry streaks remain in the dough. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the cookies tough. Then, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating delicious pockets of melted chocolate in each cookie.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, which prevents excessive spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their chewy texture and perfect shape. While waiting, you can preheat your oven for the next step.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures even baking and easy cleanup, setting the stage for your Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies to shine as they bake to golden perfection.

Step 7: Scoop and Place Dough
Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 2 inches of space between each scoop. This space allows the cookies to spread while baking, resulting in delightful, chewy treats. You can top each dough ball with a few extra chocolate chips for a bakery-style finish.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly soft. This combination creates the ideal texture that you crave in chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set up without becoming too firm. Once fully cooled, indulge in the warm flavors and share the joy of these delicious cookies with loved ones!

Variations & Substitutions for Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Customize your chewy cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs for an irresistible treat!

Nut-Free: Omit walnuts for a delicious nut-free version that still packs all the banana and chocolate goodness.
Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free butter for a rich, non-dairy delight.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a tasty gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Flavor Boost: Introduce a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolatey goodness without overpowering the banana flavor.
Spice it Up: Replace ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist that’s sure to warm your heart.
Chocolate Swap: Try white or milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a sweeter and creamier cookie experience.
Snack Bar Alternative: Press the dough into a lined baking dish and bake as a cookie bar for a chewy twist that’s easy to cut and share.
Fruity Twist: Add in half a cup of chopped dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, for extra sweetness and texture.

With these variations, you can explore new flavors and textures while enjoying the comforting embrace of these Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. For more delightful ideas, check out my Chocolate Avocado Truffles for a rich dessert option!

Expert Tips for Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Choose Ripe Bananas: Use bananas with plenty of dark spots for optimal sweetness; too much banana can lead to cakey cookies.
Cool the Butter: Allow melted butter to cool before mixing to create a creamy base; preventing it from being greasy is essential.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent excessive spreading; this keeps the cookies chewy and perfectly shaped.
Mix Gently: Fold in the all-purpose flour carefully until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can ruin your chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be slightly soft in the center for that desired chewy texture.

What to Serve with Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Imagine a cozy gathering where the aroma of freshly baked cookies mingles with laughter and good conversation.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, brightening the overall flavor profile of your dessert.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge in the classic pairing of warm cookies and cold ice cream. The creaminess complements the chewy texture, creating a delicious contrast.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate echoes the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite feel like a cozy hug in a mug.
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee enhances the rich chocolate flavors, making these cookies a delightful afternoon treat.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunch on top adds a delightful layer of texture and flavor—consider adding this to ice cream sandwiches for an extra locale.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: For the ultimate indulgence, offer a side of warm chocolate ganache for dipping. It deepens the chocolate experience and adds a luxurious touch.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can store cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just ensure they’re sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze cookies or dough in airtight packaging for up to 3 months. For the best results, label your packages with the date.

Reheating: To enjoy a freshly-baked experience, thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before diving in!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the mixing instructions but stopping before baking. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness and prevent discoloration. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, just scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and bake as instructed—there’s no need to thaw! Not only will this save you precious time on busy days, but you’ll also have freshly baked cookies with that delightful aroma in no time.

Chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

Why is ripeness of the banana important?
Using overripe bananas with plenty of dark spots is key to achieving the best flavor and sweetness for your chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies. These bananas have higher sugar content and contribute to the desired soft texture. If your bananas are still yellow without browning, they won’t provide the same luscious taste and may lead to drier cookies.

How should I store these cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them chewy and delicious. If you’re planning to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, but be sure they are sealed tightly to prevent any drying out. This way, you can enjoy your treats easily over the week!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze both baked cookies and raw dough for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. For dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop them in the microwave briefly for that fresh-baked experience!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, there are a few things to consider. First, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps maintain shape during baking. Additionally, ensure the butter is cooled before mixing; hot melted butter could lead to greasiness and spreading. Lastly, be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the flour, as it can affect the cookie structure.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! For those with nut allergies, you can simply omit the walnuts in the recipe. They add a lovely crunch, but the cookies are delightful without them as well! Additionally, those following a gluten-free diet can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these chewy Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookies without worry.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?
In an airtight container at room temperature, these scrumptious cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If they are stored in the refrigerator, you can extend their life to about a week. However, for the ultimate taste and chewy texture, I recommend consuming them within the first few days for maximum deliciousness!