Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for any occasion, they are simple to whip up and make a great snack or dessert option. With just four main ingredients, these cookies are not only vegan but also low in sugar and gluten-free, making them an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies can be made in just 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for when you need a sweet fix in a hurry.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like peanut butter and bananas, they provide energy without the guilt.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite mix-ins such as chocolate chips or coconut, allowing you to tailor them to your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies are not only healthy but also delicious, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: Enjoy these cookies without worrying about dietary restrictions; they cater to various lifestyles.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will make it easier to create these delicious cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for mashing bananas and mixing all the ingredients together effectively.
- Fork: Use a fork for mashing bananas smoothly, ensuring no clumps remain in your mixture.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides a reliable surface for baking your cookies evenly.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
Ingredients
These delicious and healthy cookies are made with just 4-ingredients and come together in a flash for a healthy, vegan, low sugar, gluten free treat!
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all natural almond butter (or swap for peanut butter)
- 1 small banana, mashed until no clumps remain
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- Unsweetened shredded coconut
- Hemp seeds
How to Make Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Banana Mixture
Mash one small banana in a large bowl until no clumps remain. This will be the base of your cookie dough.
Step 3: Mix in Other Ingredients
Add the peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon to the mashed banana. Mix well until everything is combined into a cohesive dough.
Step 4: Form the Cookie Dough
As you mix, the dough will come together into one large ball. Ensure nothing is stuck to the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Line Your Baking Sheet
Take your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking during baking.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll or scoop the dough into 10 balls. Arrange them on the prepared cookie sheet. Press each ball down lightly with a fork to flatten slightly.
Step 7: Bake Your Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned on the bottom.
Step 8: Add Finishing Touches
Once baked, remove from the oven. If desired, sprinkle some sea salt over each cookie while they are still warm.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow your cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying this healthy treat!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick snack or a delightful addition to your breakfast, these cookies are sure to please.
With Fresh Fruit
- Banana Slices: Top each cookie with fresh banana slices for added sweetness and texture.
- Berries: Serve alongside strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
As a Breakfast Treat
- With Yogurt: Crumble the cookies over Greek yogurt for a nutritious breakfast bowl.
- Nut Butter Dip: Pair with extra peanut butter or almond butter for a protein-packed start to your day.
For Dessert
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches with your favorite dairy-free ice cream.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for an indulgent finish.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To ensure your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for consistent texture throughout each cookie.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when they are lightly browned on the bottom.
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for additional flavor and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These cookies pair well with several side dishes, enhancing your snacking experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Nut Trail Mix: A blend of nuts and seeds provides crunch and healthy fats that complement the cookie’s flavors.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can serve as a hearty side that makes your snack feel more filling.
- Smoothie Bowl: Serve with a smoothie bowl topped with granola for a vibrant and nutritious meal option.
- Rice Cakes: Lightly salted rice cakes make a great crunchy side that pairs well with the soft texture of the cookies.
- Herbal Tea: Enjoying these cookies with a cup of herbal tea creates a cozy snack experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it right.
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Using the wrong type of peanut butter: Choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor and texture.
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Not mashing the banana enough: Ensure your banana is completely mashed to avoid any clumps in the dough, which can affect cookie consistency.
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Skipping the cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the flavor; don’t skip it! Just a half teaspoon makes a big difference.
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Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly browned on the bottom and soft in the center when done.
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Ignoring optional ingredients: Adding mini dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut can elevate your cookies. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 months when frozen.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are simple, nutritious treats made with just a few ingredients. They’re vegan, gluten-free, and low in sugar.
Can I customize my Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Yes! You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste. Feel free to swap almond butter with more peanut butter if desired.
How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
Make sure not to overbake them. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps maintain their softness.
Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies kid-friendly?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for kids as a healthy snack option. Their delicious taste is sure to win them over!
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They offer versatility with various add-ins and customization options. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how quickly they come together and how satisfying they are!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies—an easy, guilt-free treat that combines the rich taste of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. With just four wholesome ingredients, these vegan cookies are perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious snack or dessert option. They come together in a flash, making them ideal for busy days or spontaneous cravings. Customize your cookies with optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste. Enjoy them warm or cold, and watch as they become a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons almond butter (or additional peanut butter)
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Stir in peanut butter, almond butter, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Shape the dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Cool on the baking sheet before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
