3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies
If you are on the lookout for a quick, nutritious, and delicious treat, look no further than these 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies. Perfectly chewy, with just the right amount of sweetness, these cookies are made with wholesome ingredients that you probably have in your pantry right now. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good cookie, this recipe is for you. With only three main ingredients, plus a few extras, you can whip these up in no time. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This recipe is not only simple, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it incredibly accessible. The use of bananas, almond butter, and nuts ensures that you get a nutritious snack without any complicated steps or hard-to-find items. Plus, these cookies are naturally gluten-free and can easily be customized. You can swap out the nuts or add your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or dried fruit. It’s a fail-proof recipe that yields delicious results every time!
Ingredients at a Glance
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup creamy almond butter, well-stirred
- 2 cups mixed raw nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, and pecans)
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Gear Checklist
- Baking sheet: A standard size will work perfectly for these cookies.
- Parchment paper: This will help prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining all your ingredients.
- Fork: For mashing the bananas smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth. They should be free of lumps for the best texture in your cookies.
Step 4: Mix in the Almond Butter
Add the creamy almond butter to the mashed bananas. Stir until the mixture is well combined. This should create a creamy and thick batter.
Step 5: Add the Nuts and Flavorings
Now, fold in the mixed raw nuts, chocolate chips, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them as ovens may vary.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies!
Budget & Availability Swaps
- Almond butter: You can substitute with any nut butter, such as peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if nut allergies are a concern.
- Mixed raw nuts: Use any nuts you have on hand or replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Chocolate chips: For a healthier option, consider using dark chocolate chips or even cacao nibs.
- Bananas: If bananas are not available, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute, although it will change the flavor slightly.
Learn from These Mistakes
- Using overripe bananas will yield a sweeter cookie, but make sure they are not too mushy, as it can alter the texture.
- Not measuring the almond butter properly can lead to overly sticky dough. Always stir it well before measuring.
- Overbaking the cookies can make them dry. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are just golden.
- Not allowing the cookies to cool properly can make them fall apart. Give them a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Once you’ve baked your delicious 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies, you may find yourself with leftovers. Here’s how to store them properly:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Ask & Learn
Can I use other nut butters instead of almond butter?
Absolutely! You can use any nut butter you prefer, such as peanut butter or cashew butter. Just ensure it’s creamy for the best consistency.
What can I substitute for the nuts if I have allergies?
If you have nut allergies, consider using seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can also simply omit them and add extra chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! These cookies are naturally vegan as they do not contain any animal products. Just ensure that the chocolate chips you use are dairy-free if you want to keep them entirely plant-based.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so it’s better to take them out a little early than to overbake.
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In Closing
These 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies are not just a treat; they are an easy, wholesome snack that can be enjoyed by everyone. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create something delicious and satisfying. Whether you are treating yourself, sharing with friends, or preparing snacks for the week, these cookies will not disappoint. So gather your ingredients and let’s get baking! Enjoy every bite of your delightful creation!
3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth. They should be free of lumps for the best texture in your cookies.
- Add the creamy almond butter to the mashed bananas. Stir until the mixture is well combined. This should create a creamy and thick batter.
- Now, fold in the mixed raw nuts, chocolate chips, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them as ovens may vary.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious 3-Ingredient Nutty Banana Cookies!
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
- Swap almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for variations.
