Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a delightful treat that anyone can enjoy! Made with just four simple ingredients, these cookies are not only quick to whip up but also cater to vegan, gluten-free, and low-sugar diets. Perfect for snacks, breakfast, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Their natural sweetness from bananas combined with the rich flavors of peanut butter makes them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious snack ready in under 15 minutes.
- Healthy Ingredients: These cookies are packed with wholesome ingredients that provide energy without added sugars or preservatives.
- Versatile Options: Customize your cookies by adding dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or hemp seeds for added flavor and texture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family snack or a healthy dessert for guests, these cookies fit the bill perfectly.
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies are great for kids and can be a fun baking activity to do together!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of tools you’ll need to prepare these delightful cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Fork: Great for mashing bananas efficiently and pressing down the cookie balls before baking.
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking of the cookies while allowing easy transfer in and out of the oven.
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips or unsweetened shredded coconut or 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 there are no clumps remaining. The smoother the banana, the better it will blend with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add in the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until everything is combined into a cohesive dough.
Step 4: Form Cookie Dough
As you mix, the dough will start coming together into one big ball. Ensure nothing sticks to the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Roll or scoop the batter into 10 equal balls. Place them on the prepared cookie sheet. Press each cookie ball down lightly with a fork to flatten them slightly.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned on the bottom.
Step 8: Add Sea Salt
When you take them out of the oven, sprinkle with sea salt if desired for an extra flavor kick.
Step 9: Cool & Enjoy
Let your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies cool completely before enjoying them! They’re perfect as-is or paired with fresh fruit.
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick snack or a delightful dessert, these cookies fit the bill perfectly.
Enjoy with a Glass of Milk
- Pairing your cookies with a glass of milk enhances the flavor and provides extra nutrition. Almond or oat milk also works well for a plant-based option.
Top with Nut Butter
- Spread a thin layer of your favorite nut butter on top of each cookie for added creaminess and flavor. This makes them even more satisfying.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Serve these cookies alongside fresh fruit like banana slices or berries for a refreshing twist. The natural sweetness complements the cookies beautifully.
Create a Cookie Sandwich
- Make delightful cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of yogurt or dairy-free cream between two cookies. This gives you an extra treat that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Drizzle with Chocolate
- For a special touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies after they cool. This adds richness without overwhelming the healthy ingredients.
How to Perfect Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Perfecting your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies is simple with these tips to ensure they come out delicious every time.
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Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. Look for bananas that are brown-speckled for the best flavor.
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Choose quality nut butters: Opt for natural peanut butter and almond butter that contain no added sugars or oils. This keeps your cookies healthy and tasty.
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Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain a soft and chewy texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Adjust sweetness if needed: Taste your dough before baking and add more maple syrup if you prefer sweeter cookies. This allows customization based on personal preference.
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Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them from the oven when they are lightly browned on the bottom for the perfect texture.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can elevate your snack experience and make it more delightful.
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Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt serves as a rich dip, adding protein to balance out the cookie’s carbs.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and antioxidants, enhancing your snack’s nutritional value.
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Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl made with spinach, banana, and almond milk provides a nutritious complement while keeping it light.
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Chia Pudding: Chia pudding topped with nuts or fruit offers healthy fats and fiber while being deliciously creamy.
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Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit pairs perfectly for those who enjoy texture alongside their cookies.
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Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be served alongside as a hearty breakfast option that complements the flavors of peanut butter and banana.
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Coconut Yogurt: For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt adds tropical flair while remaining creamy and satisfying.
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Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices provide crunchiness and natural sweetness, making them an excellent pairing with your cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Not all peanut butters are created equal. Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils for the best flavor and health benefits.
- Over-mashing the banana: If the banana is too smooth, it can affect the texture. Mash until there are no clumps, but leave a little texture for a better bite.
- Skipping the spices: Cinnamon adds warmth and depth. Don’t skip this ingredient; it enhances the overall flavor of your cookies significantly.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking requires precision. Use measuring spoons and cups to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient for consistency.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allowing cookies to cool completely helps them firm up. If you eat them too soon, they might fall apart.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nut butters in Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Yes, almond butter or cashew butter works well as substitutes.
Are Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies vegan?
Yes, these cookies are made with plant-based ingredients and are suitable for vegans.
How do I make Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include flour. Ensure all nut butters used are certified gluten-free.
Can I add extras to my Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in dark chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit for added flavor and texture.
What should I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough seems dry, add a splash of almond milk or an extra half banana until you reach the desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are not only easy to make but also versatile and delicious. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a satisfying snack that aligns perfectly with your healthy lifestyle!
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 10 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies, a guilt-free treat that combines simplicity and flavor. Made with just four wholesome ingredients, these cookies are perfect for anyone seeking a quick snack or a nutritious breakfast option.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all-natural almond butter
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips or unsweetened shredded coconut or hemp seeds
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 ten equal balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow cooling before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
