Name: Irresistibly Soft Banana Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Butter (unsalted, softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar); 2 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (freshly made); 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (adjust for stronger flavor); 1/8 tsp Ground Cloves (optional); 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (properly measured); 1 tsp Baking Soda (leavening agent); 1/2 tsp Salt (balances sweetness); 1 cup Mashed Bananas (about 3 medium, overripe); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract (fresh); Fall Sprinkles (for decoration)

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, I’m reminded of the sweet, spicy aroma that fills my kitchen while baking. This year, I’m excited to share my Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful twist on the beloved banana bread we all know and love. These cookies are not only incredibly easy to whip up, but they also bring a warm, inviting flavor to your fall gatherings, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family. With their soft, cakey texture and rich, creamy frosting, they become an instant favorite—no one will be reaching for those store-bought snacks when you have these beauties on the table. Ready to bake up a little cozy magic? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Flavor Explosion: The blend of banana and cozy spices creates a mouthwatering experience that’s undeniably comforting.
Effortless Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be baking up a batch in no time—perfect for spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile Frosting: The rich Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting takes these cookies to another level, transforming them into a showstopper.
Fall Favorite: Perfect for seasonal celebrations, these cookies echo the joyful flavors of autumn and make for a delightful treat to share.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Store them for up to a week—or freeze for future cravings—giving you easy access to homemade goodness anytime.

Pair these cookies with a cup of spiced cider or serve with a side of festive treats like my Christmas Sugar Cookie, and enjoy the cozy vibes!

Banana Spice Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Butter (1/2 cup) – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted for more control over sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens and contributes to the cookie’s structure; substitute with coconut sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
• Eggs (2 large) – Binds ingredients together and provides moisture; room temperature eggs whip more easily.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor complexity; freshly made extract elevates the taste experience.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/2 tsp) – Adds warm, cozy spice; feel free to increase to 1 tsp for a stronger flavor.
• Ground Cloves (1/8 tsp) – Introduces an aromatic element; can be omitted or reduced if not preferred.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – Provides structure for these delightful Banana Spice Cookies; ensure proper measuring to avoid denser outcomes.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the cookies rise perfectly.
• Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
• Mashed Bananas (3 medium, about 1 cup) – The star ingredient that brings moisture and flavor; opt for overripe bananas for the best sweetness.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – The base for a rich and creamy frosting that melts in your mouth; ensures it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Imparts a delicious caramel flavor; can add a pinch of salt for balance.
• Powdered Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the frosting to perfection; adjust the quantity based on desired sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp) – Adds depth and enhances the flavor of the frosting; fresh extract works wonders.

For Decoration (Optional)
• Fall Sprinkles – A fun and festive way to elevate your cookies’ presentation during autumn gatherings!

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating mouthwatering Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes. This step is essential for creating a soft texture in your Banana Spice Cookies.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in 2 large room temperature eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The batter should look smooth and creamy, providing a rich foundation for your cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Mashed Bananas
Gradually stir in 1 cup of mashed overripe bananas, blending until evenly distributed within the mixture. This will add moisture and that wonderful banana flavor to your cookies. The batter will start to resemble a thick cake batter, and you’ll notice the delightful aroma begin to fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon of ground cloves. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until no dry flour remains. The dough will be wet but cohesive, perfect for your Banana Spice Cookies.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop approximately 2 oz. of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading. This ensures even baking and helps achieve those beautifully rounded edges.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, aiming for a lightly golden brown color around the edges. They should remain soft in the center and will continue to set as they cool.

Step 7: Cool Before Frosting
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for ensuring the cookies retain their soft texture and are ready for the delicious Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 8: Make the Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together 8 oz. of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. The frosting should be thick yet spreadable, perfect for topping your cookies.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting over each cookie using a spatula or knife. Feel free to add festive fall sprinkles on top for a decorative touch that brings extra joy to your Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
These delightful cookies are now ready to serve! Pair them with a warm beverage, or share them at your next gathering. Their soft, cakey texture and rich frosting are sure to become a hit among family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Spice Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their soft, cakey texture.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep the cookies even longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This helps preserve the flavor, especially with the frosting.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Banana Spice Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This allows the frosting to soften and enhances the indulgent experience!

What to Serve with Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

As the scent of warm spices lingers in the air, consider these delightful accompaniments to complete your cozy autumn gathering.

Spiced Cider: The warmth of spiced cider complements the cookies while enhancing their flavor profile, making every bite feel like a hug from the inside.
Pumpkin Latte: This seasonal favorite adds a creamy, spicy twist that pairs beautifully with the banana sweetness and rich frosting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the frosting and adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Apple Crisp: The fruity notes of a warm apple crisp perfectly echo the flavors in the cookies while introducing a comforting crunch.
Cheese Platter: An array of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies for a refined touch.
Hot Chocolate: Rich and decadent hot chocolate crowns your dessert table, creating a nostalgic feel that pairs well with the spice of the cookies.
Warm Bread Pudding: A side of warm bread pudding brings an inviting, cozy factor, enriching the experience with delightful familiarity.
Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai tea harmonize beautifully, warming your soul with every sip alongside each cookie.
Caramel Sauce: Serve a small dish of warm caramel sauce for dipping; the sweet and salty notes elevate the cookie experience to new heights!
Autumn Fruit Salad: Fresh, crisp apples and pears tossed with a hint of cinnamon provide a refreshing contrast while celebrating the season’s bounty.

Banana Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Twist

Feel free to mix things up with these delightful Banana Spice Cookies! Customize them to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nutty texture. This adds a hearty element to your cookies that’s perfect for a wholesome snack.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the banana, creating a wonderful harmony of tastes.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting. You’ll still achieve that luxurious, creamy finish while catering to lactose sensitivities.
Spiced Maple Frosting: Swap the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting for a maple glaze. Simply mix powdered sugar with pure maple syrup for a sweet, autumnal twist that’s simply divine.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Add a swirl of cinnamon-sugar filling inside the cookie dough before baking. This will give your cookies a delightful surprise of flavor, reminiscent of a favorite breakfast treat.
Nutty Banana Boost: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an extra crunch. These nuts will complement the softness of the cookies beautifully.
Banana-Peanut Butter Fusion: For a unique flavor profile, mix in a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter into the dough. This creates a deliciously creamy texture that pairs perfectly with banana.

Elevate your baking game and enjoy these Banana Spice Cookies with a twist! With so many variations to choose from, each bite will be a new, delightful experience. And if you’re in the mood for more delicious creations, don’t forget to try my Meatballs Avocado Sauce or perfect the skills for a special occasion with my Christmas Spice Buttercream. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Banana Spice Cookies

Choose Ripe Bananas: Using overripe bananas enhances sweetness and moisture. They should be brown and spotty for the best flavor in your Banana Spice Cookies.
Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is at room temperature. This helps it cream better with sugar, giving your cookies a light and airy texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to prevent dense cookies. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, which we want to avoid for these soft treats.
Cool Before Frosting: Don’t rush the frosting! Let the cookies cool completely before adding the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting to avoid melting.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels. Increase cinnamon for warmth or reduce cloves if you prefer a milder flavor without losing the essence of the cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks who enjoy meal prep! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. For even more convenience, you can freeze the formed cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. You can also prepare the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just re-whip the frosting for a couple of seconds before spreading it on the cooled cookies. With these prep tips, you’ll have delicious homemade treats waiting for you anytime!

Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose overripe bananas that are brown with dark spots all over. These bananas provide optimal sweetness and moisture for your cookies. They should feel slightly soft to the touch, which indicates they’re perfect for mashing.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Very! Store your Banana Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigeration will keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks, although the cookies may become a bit firmer due to the cold.

Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cookies in an airtight container, ensuring to layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their warm, delicious goodness.

What if my cookies turn out too dry?
Don’t worry! If your cookies come out dry, it might be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. To avoid this, make sure to gently mix the ingredients just until combined and measure the flour accurately without packing it into the cup. For a quick fix, you can add a splash of milk or additional mashed banana to the dough to help moisten it up.

Can I make any substitutions to accommodate dietary restrictions?
Of course! To make these cookies a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you need a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for the frosting. Just be cautious with ingredient swaps, as they can slightly alter the final texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for my pets?
Very! While bananas are safe for dogs in moderation, avoid giving them cookies made with sugar, butter, or any frosting as this may not be suitable for pets. Always consult your vet regarding any dietary changes for your furry friends!