These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are an irresistible treat that you can whip up in just 15 minutes! Perfect for snacks or a quick breakfast, these cookies are not only delicious but also healthy. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they cater to various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, these cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors that won’t disappoint.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- Optional Ingredients
- How to Make Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mash the Banana
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Form the Dough
- Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
- Step 6: Shape Cookies
- Step 7: Bake Cookies
- Step 8: Add Sea Salt
- Step 9: Cool & Enjoy!
- How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- With Fresh Fruit
- As a Breakfast Treat
- With Nut Butter Spread
- Crumbled Over Ice Cream
- With a Glass of Plant-Based Milk
- How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other nut butters?
- How do I make these cookies crunchy?
- Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies gluten-free?
- Can I add protein powder?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with only four main ingredients, these cookies are easy to prepare and accessible.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Low in sugar and packed with nutrients, these cookies are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile Flavors: Customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or coconut for a unique twist.
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies appeal to both kids and adults, making them a great snack for the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cookie-making experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mashing bananas and mixing the dough without mess.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing bananas thoroughly and pressing the cookie balls before baking.
- Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking; using parchment paper ensures easy cleanup.
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
Optional Ingredients
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- 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 to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a large mixing bowl, mash the small banana until completely smooth. Make sure there are no clumps remaining for an even texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter (if using), and ground cinnamon into the mashed banana. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Form the Dough
As you mix, you’ll notice that the dough starts to come together into one big ball. Ensure nothing sticks to the sides of your bowl.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using your hands or a scoop, roll out approximately 10 balls of dough. 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 so they don’t overbake!
Step 8: Add Sea Salt
Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle lightly with sea salt if desired. The salt will enhance the flavor beautifully.
Step 9: Cool & Enjoy!
Let your cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying this tasty treat!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair these cookies with sliced apples or bananas for a refreshing contrast. The sweetness of the fruit complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Enjoy them alongside yogurt or oatmeal in the morning. This combination provides a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
With Nut Butter Spread
- Spread additional almond or peanut butter on top for an extra protein boost. This makes for a hearty snack option any time of day.
Crumbled Over Ice Cream
- Use these cookies as a topping for dairy-free or regular ice cream. Their crunch adds texture and flavor to your dessert.
With a Glass of Plant-Based Milk
- Pair your cookies with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk for a delightful treat. The creamy texture balances the chewy cookie perfectly.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To ensure your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use ripe bananas – Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the cookies.
- Measure ingredients accurately – Precision in measuring peanut butter and almond butter ensures consistent dough texture, which affects baking results.
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to avoid dense cookies. Overmixing can lead to tough results rather than light and chewy cookies.
- Adjust baking time – Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies during baking for the best results; they should be lightly browned but not burnt.
- Add variations – Feel free to include chocolate chips, coconut, or nuts for added flavor and nutrition. Customize based on your taste preferences.
- Let them cool – Allow cookies to cool completely before serving. This helps them firm up and enhances their flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider serving them with one of these options:
- Greek Yogurt – A creamy addition that provides protein and tangy flavor, perfect for balancing sweetness.
- Smoothie Bowl – A fresh smoothie bowl topped with fruits aligns well with the cookie’s banana flavor and makes a wholesome meal.
- Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and enhances the overall nutrition profile of your snack.
- Nut Trail Mix – Combine nuts and dried fruits for a crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.
- Cottage Cheese – Creamy cottage cheese offers protein, making it a great pairing for these healthy treats.
- Chia Seed Pudding – Smooth chia pudding can serve as a delightful base under crumbled cookies, adding interesting textures to your dessert experience.
- Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal seasoned with cinnamon creates a comforting breakfast when paired with these cookies.
- Dairy-Free Chocolate Milkshake – For something indulgent yet healthy, blend bananas with cocoa powder and plant-based milk into a delicious shake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. This ensures a healthier cookie with the right texture.
- Not mashing the banana thoroughly: Ensure the banana is mashed completely to avoid chunks in your cookies. A smooth mix helps create a better dough.
- Skipping the cinnamon: Cinnamon adds flavor and depth. Don’t omit it; just half a teaspoon makes a difference!
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly browned on the bottom after about 10 minutes for optimal texture.
- Not cooling completely before eating: Allow the cookies to cool fully on a wire rack. This helps them firm up and enhances their flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, flipping once until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.
Can I use other nut butters?
Yes! Almond butter or cashew butter can easily replace peanut butter. Just ensure they are natural and smooth.
How do I make these cookies crunchy?
For crunchier cookies, bake them slightly longer or add chopped nuts into the dough before baking.
Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! As long as you use certified gluten-free oats or ingredients, these cookies are perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes! Adding protein powder can enhance the nutritional value. Just reduce the amount of almond butter slightly if using protein powder.
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different mix-ins like nuts or seeds to suit your taste. Try this delicious recipe today!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a quick and nutritious treat ready in just 15 minutes. These cookies combine the rich taste of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas to create a delicious snack perfect for any time of day. With only four wholesome ingredients, these cookies cater to vegan and gluten-free diets, making them a guilt-free indulgence that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re looking for an energizing breakfast or a satisfying snack, these cookies promise to deliver on flavor and health benefits. Customize them with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!
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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, almond butter, and cinnamon; mix until well combined.
- Roll dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet; press down gently with a fork.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
