Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion! With just four simple ingredients, they come together in no time. These cookies are not only delicious but also vegan, low in sugar, and gluten-free. Whether you need a quick snack or a healthy dessert option, these cookies fit the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip up these cookies in just 15 minutes, making them an ideal snack for busy days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like peanut butter and banana, they’re packed with flavor and health benefits.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut for extra taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and enjoying these tasty treats!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lunchbox treat or a post-workout snack, these cookies are versatile.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother, gather your tools before you start. Proper equipment ensures that the process goes without a hitch.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• Fork: Perfect for mashing the banana and pressing down cookie dough before baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking the cookies evenly.
• 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!

For the Cookies

• 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 Mix-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 is crucial to ensure even baking of your cookies.

Step 2: Mash the Banana

In a large mixing bowl, mash one small banana until there are no clumps remaining. A fork works great for this task.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until everything is combined into a smooth batter.

Step 4: Form the Cookie Dough

As you mix, the dough will start to come together into one big ball. Ensure nothing is stuck to the sides of your mixing bowl.

Step 5: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Roll or scoop the dough into about 10 balls. Arrange them on your prepared cookie sheet, then gently press each ball down with a fork.

Step 7: Bake

Place your cookie sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the bottom.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

When you remove them from the oven, sprinkle with sea salt if desired for an added touch of flavor.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!

Let your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies cool completely before serving. Enjoy these tasty treats guilt-free!

How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a delightful dessert, these cookies fit the bill. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.

With Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Bananas: Pair your cookies with fresh banana slices for an extra boost of sweetness.
• Berries: Serve alongside strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the cookies.

With Dairy Alternatives

• Almond Milk: Enjoy with a glass of cold almond milk to complement the nutty flavors.
• Coconut Yogurt: Spread a layer of coconut yogurt on top for an added creamy texture.

As a Breakfast Treat

• On Toast: Crumble the cookies over whole-grain toast with a drizzle of honey for a nutritious breakfast.
• Oatmeal Topping: Use broken pieces as a topping on your morning oatmeal for added flavor and crunch.

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How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

To ensure your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter your cookies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
• Measure Ingredients Carefully: Accurate measurements help maintain the right texture and flavor balance.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be golden but not too dark to avoid dryness.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for additional flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

These cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their taste. Here are some great options to consider when serving them:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Nut Butter Dip: Serve with almond or cashew butter for extra richness; perfect for dipping!
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad complements the flavors and adds a healthy touch to your meal.
4. Chia Pudding: Chia pudding offers a nutritious contrast and is easy to prepare in advance.
5. Granola Parfait: Layer your cookies with granola and yogurt for a delightful parfait experience.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Pair these cookies with a smoothie bowl topped with sliced fruits and seeds for a wholesome treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes while making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies for the best results.

• Using the wrong peanut butter: Always choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. This ensures that your cookies stay healthy and maintain their texture.

• Not mashing the banana enough: Ensure the banana is mashed until no clumps remain. This helps create a smooth dough that binds well, leading to better cookie consistency.

• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which defeats the purpose of a soft, chewy treat.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is essential for easy removal and prevents sticking. Don’t skip this step!

• Not adjusting for personal taste: Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts, seeds, or spices. Tailoring them to your liking can enhance flavor and nutrition.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds, but don’t overdo it.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies.

Can I use other nut butters?

Yes! You can substitute almond butter or cashew butter if you prefer. Just keep the same measurements.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are already gluten-free since they do not contain any flour. Enjoy them worry-free!

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in mini dark chocolate chips for extra sweetness and flavor without compromising healthiness.

What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or potato masher to ensure there are no clumps left. A smooth mixture will help bind your cookies well.

How long will these cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins like nuts or seeds, making them suitable for different tastes and preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a deliciously healthy snack!