Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion. Made with just four simple ingredients, these cookies come together quickly and deliver a delightful taste that satisfies your sweet tooth. Ideal for snacks, breakfast, or a post-workout boost, these cookies are both vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs. Enjoy the natural sweetness from bananas and peanut butter while keeping your health goals in check!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats and protein, these cookies make a great snack without the added sugars.
- Versatile Options: Customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or hemp seeds based on your preference.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: This recipe is suitable for everyone, including those following vegan or gluten-free diets.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and banana creates a rich taste that you won’t resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools will make the process easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential kitchen items to create your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing bananas thoroughly and pressing down cookie balls before baking.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment.
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!
Core 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 it is smooth with no clumps remaining. This will be the base of your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add in the natural peanut butter, almond butter (if using), and ground cinnamon. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 4: Form Dough
As you mix, you will notice the dough starting 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 during baking.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Roll or scoop the batter into approximately 10 balls. Place them on the prepared cookie sheet. Lightly press each ball down with a fork to flatten slightly.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the bottom.
Step 8: Add Sea Salt (Optional)
Once removed from the oven, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if desired for an extra flavor kick.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow your cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying them as a delicious snack!
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only delightful on their own but can also be served in various ways to enhance your snacking experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these tasty treats.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Bananas – Pair your cookies with fresh banana slices for a double banana delight.
- Berries – A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing twist.
With Nut Butters
- Almond Butter – Spread more almond butter on top for an extra creamy texture and flavor.
- Cashew Butter – Try cashew butter for a slightly sweet and nutty complement.
As a Breakfast Option
- Yogurt Parfait – Crumble cookies over Greek yogurt with fruits and granola for a wholesome breakfast.
- Smoothie Bowl Topping – Use these cookies as a crunchy topping for smoothie bowls.
With Dairy Alternatives
- Coconut Yogurt – For a vegan touch, serve with coconut yogurt for added creaminess.
- Nut Milk – Enjoy alongside almond or oat milk for dipping.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
To ensure your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Choose Natural Nut Butters – Opt for natural peanut or almond butter without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to denser cookies.
- Experiment with Add-Ins – Feel free to add mini dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as they can go from perfect to overdone quickly.
- Cool Completely Before Storing – Let the cookies cool fully on a wire rack before storing them to maintain their texture.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor and nutritional value. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Chia Pudding – Creamy chia pudding provides a nutritious side that balances the cookie’s texture.
- Trail Mix – A handful of trail mix adds crunch and additional protein alongside your cookie snack.
- Oatmeal Bowl – Serve with a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits and nuts for a hearty meal.
- Green Smoothie – A refreshing green smoothie adds nutrients and pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola offers texture contrast while being packed with healthy ingredients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, it’s easy to miss a step or two. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not mashing the banana properly: Ensure the banana is mashed until no clumps remain. This helps achieve a smoother cookie dough.
- Using sweetened peanut butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars. This keeps your cookies healthy and low in sugar.
- Skipping the cinnamon: Cinnamon enhances flavor and adds warmth. Don’t skip it for a more delightful cookie experience.
- Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so aim for a light brown bottom.
- Ignoring optional ingredients: While salt is optional, adding a pinch enhances flavor significantly. Consider using it for a better taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat and warm for a couple of minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies that you might find helpful.
Can I use other nut butters?
You can substitute almond butter with other nut butters like cashew or sunflower seed butter. Each will give a unique twist!
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I customize these cookies?
Feel free to add ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or seeds. This creates different flavors and textures.
What is the best way to enjoy these cookies?
These cookies make for an excellent snack or breakfast option. Pair them with some fresh fruit or yogurt for a wholesome meal!
How long do these cookies take to make?
With just four ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies in about 15 minutes total!
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious! Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful and guilt-free treat perfect for any occasion. Made with just four wholesome ingredients, these cookies are quick to prepare and deliver a satisfying flavor that will please your sweet cravings. Ideal for snacks, breakfast, or even as a post-workout boost, they are both vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences. Enjoy the rich taste of peanut butter combined with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas while keeping your health goals in mind.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all-natural almond butter (or additional peanut butter)
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Add peanut butter, almond butter, and cinnamon; mix until well combined.
- Form the dough into approximately 10 balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press each ball down lightly with a fork.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned.
- Optionally sprinkle with sea salt after baking, then let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
