Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that combines simplicity and flavor in each bite. With just four main ingredients, these cookies are perfect for snacking, breakfast, or dessert. They are not only vegan and gluten-free but also low in sugar, making them a suitable option for various occasions. Enjoy the rich taste of peanut butter paired with the natural sweetness of banana, all while knowing you’re indulging in a healthier choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats and natural sugars, these cookies provide energy without the guilt.
- Versatile Add-ins: Customize your cookies with dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or hemp seeds for added flavor and texture.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen while enjoying a nutritious snack.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick snacks throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious world of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for mashing bananas and mixing your cookie batter thoroughly.
- Fork: This handy tool makes it easy to mash bananas smoothly and press down cookie balls before baking.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even heating for perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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: Mash the Banana
In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until no clumps remain. This will create a smooth base for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon to the mashed banana. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Form the Dough
As you mix, you will notice that the dough begins to come together into one cohesive ball. Ensure nothing sticks to the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect baked texture.
Step 6: Shape Cookie Balls
Roll or scoop the batter into approximately 10 equal-sized balls. Arrange them on the prepared cookie sheet. Lightly flatten each ball using a fork.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned.
Step 8: Add Sea Salt
Once removed from the oven, sprinkle lightly with sea salt if desired. This adds an extra layer of flavor.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies to cool completely before indulging. Enjoy these tasty treats any time of day!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a snack or part of a meal, these cookies can be paired with various accompaniments for an enhanced experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing! Enjoy your cookies with a glass of dairy or plant-based milk for a wholesome treat.
As an After-School Snack
- Perfect for kids! These cookies make a healthy after-school snack that will keep them energized without the sugar crash.
On Top of Yogurt
- Crumble the cookies and sprinkle them over yogurt. This adds flavor and texture to your favorite yogurt bowl, making it even more enjoyable.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair these cookies with fresh fruit like apple slices or berries for a balanced snack that combines sweetness with nutrition.
In a Lunchbox
- Pack these cookies in lunchboxes for a tasty treat at school or work. They are nutritious and satisfy sweet cravings.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To get the best results when making these cookies, follow these helpful tips.
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Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.
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Choose Natural Nut Butters: Opt for all-natural peanut butter and almond butter without added sugars or oils to keep the recipe healthy.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, consider adding a bit more maple syrup or chocolate chips according to your taste preference.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can complement various side dishes. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside them:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and enhances the nutritional profile of your meal.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a delicious parfait that pairs wonderfully with cookies.
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Nut Butter Dip: Serve some almond or peanut butter as a dip alongside the cookies for extra flavor and protein.
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Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts, seeds, and fruits can create a well-rounded meal experience.
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Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal served on the side makes for a hearty breakfast option that complements the cookie flavors nicely.
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Cottage Cheese: A serving of cottage cheese topped with honey or fruit offers a creamy texture that balances the cookie’s crunchiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your experience of baking Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies much smoother. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Incorrect measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately to ensure the right texture and flavor.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of a soft treat.
- Using ripe bananas: Ensure your bananas are ripe for natural sweetness and better flavor; under-ripe bananas may not yield the best results.
- Skipping parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup, so don’t skip this step!
- Not letting cookies cool: Allow cookies to cool completely before enjoying. This helps them firm up and enhances their flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to keep cookies from sticking.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag after they are solid.
- Best used within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies:
Can I customize the ingredients in Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. Feel free to swap almond butter with any nut butter you prefer.
Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe uses natural peanut butter and almond butter without added gluten ingredients, making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The bottom should be lightly browned, and the tops should look set but slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
What can I serve with Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
These cookies pair perfectly with a glass of almond milk or your favorite dairy-free beverage. They also make great snacks on their own!
Final Thoughts
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something sweet after dinner, these cookies will satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy. Give this recipe a try today!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 10 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful goodness of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a perfect treat that’s both simple and nutritious! Made with just four wholesome ingredients, these cookies are ideal for any time of day—whether for breakfast, a snack, or a guilt-free dessert. Their rich peanut butter flavor harmonizes beautifully with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, resulting in a chewy texture that everyone will love. With the added bonus of being vegan, gluten-free, and low in sugar, you can enjoy these cookies knowing they align with your health goals. Customize them with optional add-ins like dark chocolate chips or nuts for an extra touch. Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to these heartwarming delights!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons almond butter (or additional peanut butter)
- 1 small ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Mix in natural peanut butter, almond butter, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll the dough into about 10 balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly browned on the bottom.
- Let cool before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 28g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
