Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

These Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan) are a delightful treat that combine the comforting flavors of banana bread with the convenience of cookies. Perfect for snacks, desserts, or even breakfast on-the-go, these cookies are not only easy to make but also healthy. With just six main ingredients, you can whip them up in no time, making them an excellent choice for busy days or gatherings. Plus, their gluten-free and vegan nature means they cater to various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies require minimal effort and time to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with almond flour and ripe bananas, these cookies offer a nutritious alternative to traditional cookie recipes.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: These cookies store well in the fridge, making them an ideal snack for busy weeks.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet banana flavor and chewy texture make these cookies a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your delicious banana bread cookies, it’s essential to gather all necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps you combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon: This tool ensures uniform cookie sizes, leading to even baking.
• Wire rack: Cooling cookies on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation.

Ingredients

These banana bread cookies are a fun healthy snack that are crazy easy to make. They call for only 6 ingredients but feel free to add in any of the optional ingredients!

Main Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 1/4 cup overly ripe mashed bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
• 1 egg (or sub 1 flax egg)

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons nut butter
• Chopped nuts

Flavor Enhancers

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Extra 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch ground cloves

How to Make Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Almond flour
2. Baking soda
3. Sea salt
4. Cinnamon

Stir well until blended.

Step 3: Prepare Bananas

Mash the bananas in a separate bowl using a fork until smooth. Add the mashed bananas to the dry mixture (it’s best if you mash first before measuring).

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add:
1. Pure maple syrup
2. Egg (or flax egg if vegan)

Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough

Using a 1.5 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Flatten Cookies

Gently flatten each cookie using a fork or the back of a spoon for even cooking.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 26-30 minutes until the centers are set and not wet (28 minutes is typically perfect).

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked, transfer the cookies onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Store

Allow them to reach room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Banana Bread Cookies! Perfectly gluten-free and vegan, they’re sure to be a favorite.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

These delicious banana bread cookies make for a versatile and healthy snack. You can enjoy them plain or elevate your serving experience with some fun pairings.

With Nut Butter

• Spread a layer of almond or peanut butter on top for extra creaminess and flavor.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Pair the cookies with a side of fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, for a nutritious breakfast option.

With Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Serve alongside coconut or almond yogurt for a refreshing and satisfying snack.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup can add sweetness and enhance the cookie’s natural flavors.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include these cookies as part of a homemade charcuterie board, accompanied by nuts and dried fruits.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

To ensure your banana bread cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose the right bananas: Use overly ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture in your cookies.
• Mix gently: Avoid over-mixing the dough to keep the cookies from becoming tough; mix just until combined.
• Cookie size matters: Use a cookie scoop for uniformity, ensuring even baking across all cookies.
• Proper cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess from trapped steam.
• Experiment with add-ins: Try adding nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations.
• Store correctly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

Pairing your banana bread cookies with complementary side dishes can enhance your snacking experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Nut Mix: A combination of almonds, walnuts, and cashews provides crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.
3. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits with almond milk for a nutritious smoothie bowl that pairs well with the cookies.
4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with banana slices creates a comforting breakfast when served alongside.
5. Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy pudding complements the flavors of banana while adding extra nutrition.
6. Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea pairs wonderfully for a cozy afternoon snack experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Not using overly ripe bananas – Using bananas that are not ripe enough can lead to a less sweet and flavorful cookie. Make sure your bananas have plenty of brown spots for the best taste.
• Skipping the parchment paper – This can cause your cookies to stick to the baking sheet. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Ignoring baking times – Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and check them a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
• Not allowing cookies to cool properly – Eating them while they are too warm can result in a mess. Let your cookies cool on a wire rack for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the main compartment, not in the door, for better freshness.

Freezing Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

• Freeze cookies individually on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan)

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350℉ and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a non-stick pan over low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about these delicious Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan).

Can I use another type of flour?

You can substitute almond flour with oat flour or coconut flour, but adjustments may be needed in liquid ingredients due to different absorbencies.

How do I make these cookies nut-free?

Simply replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour and omit any nut butter used in the recipe.

Are these Banana Bread Cookies suitable for kids?

Yes! These cookies are healthy and fun, making them perfect for kids’ snacks or lunchboxes.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruits, seeds, or different types of chocolate chips for extra flavor.

How do I tell when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be set in the middle and not wet when you remove them from the oven. A slight golden color on the edges is also a good sign.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bread Cookies (gluten free, vegan) offer a delightful twist on classic flavors while being healthy and simple to make. You can easily customize them with various add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe!