Name: Irresistibly Chewy Banana Bread Cookies to Savor Now
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Aromatic spice); 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (softened) (Can use vegan butter); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Adjust to taste); 0.5 cups Brown Sugar (packed) (Can substitute with granulated sugar); 1 large Egg (Can use chia egg for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results); 2 small Mashed Ripe Bananas (Approximately two small bananas); 0.5 cups Chopped Walnuts (optional) (Can substitute with pecans or omit); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened) (Can use Neufchâtel for lighter version); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Milk (Any milk will work); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Consider using other extracts)

The kitchen filled with a delightful scent, and I could hardly wait to dive into the warm, chewy goodness of Banana Walnut Cookies. Each bite promises a perfect balance of sweet, ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, making them an irresistible treat. With a quick prep time and the option to add a luscious cream cheese glaze, these cookies are ideal for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to indulgent snack breaks. Plus, the heartwarming aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air will bring everyone rushing to the kitchen! Curious about how to whip up this fantastic recipe and bring a bit of comfort into your home? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Banana Bread Cookies Irresistible?

Irresistible Comfort: The warm, chewy texture of these cookies instantly brings the comfort of homemade treats, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a delightful combination of sweet bananas and crunchy walnuts, creating a rich flavor profile reminiscent of the classic banana bread.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can whip these cookies up in no time—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests!

Cream Cheese Glaze: The optional creamy glaze takes these cookies to the next level, transforming them into an indulgent dessert that feels special.

Perfect Pairing: Serve them alongside your favorite coffee or tea, or pack them up for a delicious treat during a gathering; they always impress! Check out my Monkey Bread From for another crowd-pleaser.

Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your cookies are fluffy and light.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic spice; feel free to increase for a more pronounced flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (softened) – Contributes richness and moisture, with vegan butter serving as a suitable alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps to achieve the perfect texture; adjust to personal taste if you prefer less sweetness.
• Brown Sugar (packed) – Introduces moisture and a deeper flavor; if it’s not handy, you can substitute with additional granulated sugar.
• Large Egg – Essential for binding the ingredients, though a chia egg works well for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enriches the sweetness and flavor; using pure vanilla is recommended for the best results.
• Mashed Ripe Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and adds moisture, approximately two small bananas yield the right amount.
• Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Introduces delightful crunch and flavor; feel free to use pecans or skip for a nut-free version.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze
• Cream Cheese (softened) – The creamy base of the glaze, giving it a rich and smooth texture; consider Neufchâtel for a lighter alternative.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze to perfection; adjust to your taste preference.
• Milk – Helps achieve the desired consistency for your glaze; any milk will work just fine.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds an inviting flavor; consider infusing it with other extracts for an exciting twist.

Get ready to savor these delicious Banana Bread Cookies and make your kitchen the heart of warm, sweet memories!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Walnut Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential step ensures your Banana Walnut Cookies bake evenly and develop a lovely golden hue. While waiting for the oven, gather your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This dry mixture forms the foundation of your cookies, contributing to their structure and flavor. Ensure there are no lumps, and set the bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of packed brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it turns light and fluffy, roughly 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the tender texture in your Banana Walnut Cookies, so take your time to ensure it’s well blended.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Bananas
Now, add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 mashed ripe bananas to the butter mixture. Blend them together until everything is well combined and smooth. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making your cookies delightfully chewy and flavorful, akin to the comfort of classic banana bread.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this could make the cookies tough. If desired, gently incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts for that extra crunch and flavor. The cookie dough might be slightly thicker, which is perfect for baking.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still appear soft. This will ensure your Banana Walnut Cookies remain chewy and delicious.

Step 7: Cool on Baking Sheet
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen while they cool.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This glaze adds a deliciously rich finish to your already delightful Banana Walnut Cookies.

Step 9: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze over the tops. Feel free to adjust the consistency of the glaze with a little more milk if needed. This final touch will elevate your cookies, bringing a decadent sweetness that perfectly complements the banana and walnut flavors.

Banana Bread Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these fun variations!

Nut-Free: Omit walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts. This option is perfect for allergy-friendly treats, allowing everyone to enjoy them!
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Be sure to check your other ingredients for hidden gluten, ensuring everyone can savor these delicious bites.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Substitute walnuts with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent flavor. The sweet, melty chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the banana!
Spiced Up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor. It’s like cozying up your cookies with a spice blanket, inviting comfort all around.
Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with a chia seed egg (1 tablespoon of chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter for a delightful vegan version all can enjoy!
Sea Salt Finish: Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt atop the cream cheese glaze for a sweet-savory burst in every bite. This little contrast makes the flavors pop and adds sophistication!
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for an extra chewy texture. These fruits elevate the sweetness and provide a delightful contrast to the nuttiness from the walnuts.
Maple Glaze: Swap out the cream cheese glaze for a simple maple syrup drizzle instead. This output gives a warm, natural sweetness and complements the bananas beautifully.

These variations are just a couple of ways to spin on the classic recipe! If you’re looking for more yummy cookie ideas, check out my esteemed Pecan Pie Cookies for another not-to-miss treat!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Banana Walnut Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the cookies can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, place parchment paper between layers in the storage container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply glaze the cookies after they’ve cooled, which can be done right before serving for the best texture and taste. With these make-ahead tips, you can have these irresistible treats ready to impress with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier blending, which creates a lighter, fluffier texture in your cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined to prevent tough banana bread cookies. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking; they should be set at the edges but remain soft in the center for that delightful chewiness.
Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without breaking apart.
Glaze Freshly: For the best flavor and appearance, apply the cream cheese glaze right before serving to keep it fresh and glossy.

What to Serve with Banana Walnut Cookies

The cozy aroma of banana walnut cookies is just the beginning of a delightful meal—or perhaps a sweet afternoon break.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully complements the cookies’ chewy texture, creating a comforting duo for dessert lovers. The cold creaminess melts against the warm cookies, creating a blissful bite.
Cozy Hot Chocolate: Pairing these cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate brings a touch of indulgence and warmth, making every sip and bite feel like a hug on a chilly day.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright and refreshing fruit salad can balance the warmth and sweetness of the cookies, adding juicy textures that brighten up the dessert table. Consider mixing in bananas to enhance the cookie’s flavor profile!
Homemade Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the cinnamon notes in the cookies, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for an afternoon tea break with friends.
Toasted Pecans: A handful of toasted pecans alongside your cookies brings a delightful crunch and adds a warm nutty essence that echoes the walnuts in your cookies.
Classic Milk: There’s nothing like a glass of cold milk to dunk your banana walnut cookies! The simple, classic taste allows the flavors of the cookies to shine and makes for a nostalgic treat.
Lemon Zest Shortbread: For a contrast in flavors, serve lemon zest shortbread cookies for a tangy twist that brightens the palate after the sweet banana walnut cookies.
Spiced Earl Grey Tea: The fragrant notes of bergamot in Earl Grey enhance the warm spices in the cookies, creating a beautifully balanced pairing for an afternoon delight.
Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the cookies accentuates their sweetness and transforms each serving into a luscious dessert experience.

Storage Tips for Banana Walnut Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, ensuring they remain soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer your cookies chilled, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Glaze them just before serving for freshness.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies again, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Banana Walnut Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Opt for ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These bananas offer the sweetest flavor and moistest texture for your cookies. Avoid green or overly mushy bananas, as they can make the cookies either too starchy or too wet.

How should I store left-over Banana Walnut Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Banana Walnut Cookies?
Very much so! For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply glaze them just before serving for that fresh, delectable taste!

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies come out dry, it’s usually because they were overbaked. I recommend checking them a minute or two earlier than the suggested baking time. Also, make sure you’re measuring your flour correctly—using a kitchen scale can help you avoid using too much. If you want to improve moisture, consider adding an extra mashed banana to the dough next time.

Are these cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
You can easily adapt this recipe! If someone has a nut allergy, just omit the chopped walnuts or replace them with a seed option like sunflower seeds for that extra crunch without the allergens. Always double-check the packaging of ingredients to ensure they’re processed in a nut-free facility if needed.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll still enjoy delicious, chewy cookies. Just make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the right texture.