Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines simplicity and taste. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also offer a guilt-free indulgence. With just four ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them ideal for snack time, breakfast on the go, or as a healthy dessert option. Their unique blend of flavors ensures you’ll savor every bite while reaping the benefits of nutritious ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats and natural sweetness, they’re good for you.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: A perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions.
- Customizable Options: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to make them your own.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids involved in the kitchen while teaching healthy eating habits.
Tools and Preparation
Getting ready to bake these cookies is straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly and ensuring a smooth batter.
- Fork: Useful not only for mashing bananas but also for flattening cookie balls before baking.
- Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking of your cookies.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove cookies without crumbling.
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)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional), unsweetened shredded coconut, or 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 the cookies bake evenly from the moment they go in.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until it is completely smooth with no clumps remaining.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon into the bowl. Mix well until everything is combined into one cohesive mixture.
Step 4: Form the Dough
As you mix, the dough will start to come together into one big ball. Ensure nothing is stuck to the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
Step 6: Shape Cookie Balls
Roll or scoop out the dough into about 10 equal-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and gently press each ball down with a fork.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the bottom. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Step 8: Add Sea Salt (Optional)
Once removed from the oven, sprinkle each cookie with sea salt if desired to enhance flavor.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying. They’re best served fresh but store well for later snacking!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a breakfast option, or a delightful dessert, here are some serving suggestions that enhance their taste and presentation.
With Fresh Fruit
- Banana Slices – Top the cookies with fresh banana slices for added sweetness and texture.
- Berries – Serve alongside strawberries or blueberries for a burst of flavor.
As a Breakfast Option
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer cookies with yogurt and granola for a nutritious breakfast parfait.
- Nut Butter Spread – Spread additional almond or peanut butter on top for an extra protein boost.
For Dessert
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle – Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the cookies for a decadent touch.
- Coconut Flakes – Sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut on top for added flavor and crunch.
With Beverages
- Almond Milk – Pair your cookies with a glass of almond milk for a delicious combination.
- Herbal Tea – Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea for relaxation.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately – Ensure you use precise measurements to maintain the right texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender instead of tough.
- Experiment with Add-ins – Feel free to add mini dark chocolate chips or nuts for extra crunch.
- Cool Completely Before Storing – Let the cookies cool fully before storing them to prevent sogginess.
- Use Parchment Paper – Lining your baking sheet helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can create a more filling meal or snack. Here are some great options to consider.
- Greek Yogurt – A creamy addition that balances the sweetness of cookies while adding protein.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that complements the flavors in the cookies.
- Nut Trail Mix – A crunchy mix of nuts and seeds provides healthy fats and contrast in texture.
- Smoothie Bowl – Blend fruits into a smoothie bowl and enjoy alongside your cookies for a wholesome treat.
- Oatmeal – Serve warm oatmeal topped with banana slices as a comforting side dish.
- Hummus and Veggies – For a savory touch, pair your cookies with hummus and crunchy veggie sticks.
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 ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Boldly measuring ingredients: Using the wrong amounts can affect the texture. Always measure your peanut butter and banana accurately.
- Ignoring ripeness of bananas: Using under-ripe bananas will yield less sweetness. Choose fully ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir just until combined to keep them soft.
- Skipping parchment paper: Not lining your baking sheet can cause sticking. Always line it to make cleanup easier.
- Not cooling completely: Eating cookies right out of the oven may not give you the best texture. Allow them to cool before enjoying.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies in an airtight container.
- They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months for later enjoyment.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds for soft, warm cookies.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies that might help you in your baking journey.
Can I use different nut butters in Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Yes! You can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for peanut butter if desired.
Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour.
How do I modify Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies for added sweetness?
You can add more maple syrup or include mini dark chocolate chips for extra sweetness and flavor.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only simple but also customizable, making them perfect for various dietary needs. Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or even oats for added texture. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy these healthy treats anytime!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while being nutritious. With just four main ingredients, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether as a quick snack, breakfast on-the-go, or a healthy dessert. The creamy peanut butter combined with ripe banana creates a naturally sweet flavor, enhanced by optional mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or nuts. Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, these vegan and gluten-free cookies are not only delicious but also customizable. Get ready to whip up a batch in no time and enjoy every wholesome bite!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons almond butter (or more peanut butter)
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: pinch of sea salt, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and add-ins like chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the banana in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, almond butter, and cinnamon; mix well until combined.
- Roll dough into approximately 10 balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned on the bottom.
- Let cool before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
