Banana Bread Cookies

Crumbl Banana Bread Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, transforming those beloved flavors into soft, chewy cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies feature a rich cream cheese glaze that adds a touch of tanginess to the sweet banana flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and warm spices creates a comforting and satisfying taste.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, these cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for busy bakers.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast! They fit perfectly into any time of day.
• Creamy Glaze: The cream cheese glaze elevates the cookies, adding a luxurious finish that complements the banana flavor beautifully.
• Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to personalize these cookies to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools. These essentials will help you create delicious Banana Bread Cookies with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients separately for better results.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier by providing a non-stick surface.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients you’ll need to create your delightful Banana Bread Cookies.

For the Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 small bananas)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Add:
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Beat until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Mashed Bananas

Mix in:
* 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas

Ensure it’s evenly incorporated into the mixture.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. If desired, fold in:
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about:
10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a separate bowl, beat:
* 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

Gradually add:
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 1 tablespoon milk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and drizzle-able.

Step 10: Glaze the Cookies

Once cooled, drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze over each cookie generously.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Savor your Crumbl Banana Bread Cookies with Cream Cheese Glaze! Perfectly sweet and tangy, they’ll be hard to resist!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies

Crumbl Banana Bread Cookies with Cream Cheese Glaze are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to enhance your cookie experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make these treats even more enjoyable.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that balances the sweetness and adds creaminess.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to create an inviting and colorful display.

Warmed Up

• Pop the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. This will make the glaze slightly melty and the cookie even softer.

Coffee Companion

• Serve your cookies with a rich cup of coffee. The flavors of banana and cinnamon in the cookies complement the coffee beautifully.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich with your favorite flavor. This adds an exciting twist and makes for a fun treat.

At a Gathering

• Present these cookies at parties or gatherings as a sweet bite-sized treat. They’re sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!

How to Perfect Banana Bread Cookies

To ensure your Banana Bread Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal taste.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Chill Dough if Necessary: If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; every oven is different. Remove from the oven when edges are lightly golden for best results.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow cookies to cool completely before adding the cream cheese glaze, ensuring it stays intact and doesn’t melt away.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Bread Cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a wholesome side that complements the cookie’s texture.
3. Nut Mix: A simple blend of nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, making it a perfect crunchy contrast.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The richness of chocolate pairs delightfully with banana flavors, making this an indulgent side.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that enhances the soft texture of the cookies.
6. Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of whipped cream can add lightness and creaminess, making each bite even more enjoyable.
7. Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea complements the cinnamon notes in your cookies while providing warmth.
8. Homemade Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars can serve as an alternative snack option alongside these sweet treats, offering variety in textures and flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Banana Bread Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can throw off the texture and taste. Always use proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Boldly overlook ripeness: Using bananas that aren’t ripe enough will result in less flavor. Ensure your bananas are well-ripened with brown spots for the best sweetness.
• Boldly ignore cooling time: Skipping the cooling time before adding glaze can cause it to melt. Let your cookies cool completely for the best presentation.
• Boldly mix too much: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Boldly forget optional ingredients: Leaving out walnuts might reduce texture and flavor complexity. If you enjoy nuts, consider adding them for an extra crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana Bread Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes to restore freshness.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Banana Bread Cookies different from traditional banana bread?

Banana Bread Cookies are softer and chewier than traditional banana bread. The cookie format allows for easy portability and fun portion sizes.

Can I customize my Banana Bread Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices like nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.

How do I store leftover Banana Bread Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Are these Banana Bread Cookies suitable for freezing?

Yes! These cookies freeze well. Just ensure you store them correctly in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Final Thoughts

These Crumbl Banana Bread Cookies with Cream Cheese Glaze offer a delightful twist on classic flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture and customizable options, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give them a try, and enjoy every bite!