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If you’ve been craving something sweet yet wholesome, this Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These simple cookies blend the natural creaminess of peanut and almond butter with the perfect hint of ripe banana and warm cinnamon, creating a treat that’s both nourishing and oh-so-satisfying. Lightly sweetened, with the option to add a touch of maple syrup or chocolate chips, they’re ideal for a quick snack, breakfast on the go, or a guilt-free dessert that feels like a warm hug in cookie form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays its role perfectly—bringing flavor, moisture, and that chewy texture that makes these cookies so addictive.
- Natural peanut butter: Provides richness and a classic nutty flavor that’s the backbone of this cookie.
- All-natural almond butter: Adds a subtle depth and creaminess, balancing the peanut butter beautifully.
- Small banana (mashed): Brings natural sweetness and moisture, making these cookies tender.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and a gentle spice that elevates every bite.
- Optional pinch of sea salt: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
- Optional tablespoon of pure maple syrup or add-ins like chocolate chips: For those who want a touch more sweetness or a fun twist.
How to Make Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, set your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking these delightful cookies. Proper oven temperature ensures they bake evenly and develop that lovely, golden exterior.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
Grab a small ripe banana and mash it until completely smooth in a mixing bowl. This natural sweetener and binder form the base of your dough and guarantee moist, tender cookies.
Step 3: Combine Nut Butters and Cinnamon
Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon to your mashed banana. Stir everything until smooth and fully combined, creating a thick, luscious dough. This mixture is where the magic happens.
Step 4: Shape Your Cookies
Roll the dough into about 10 even balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently press down each ball with a fork to flatten slightly. This step helps them bake more evenly and gives them that classic cookie look with fork marks.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tray into the oven and bake the cookies for roughly 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they should turn just lightly golden around the edges—this ensures a soft center with a slightly crisp edge.
Step 6: Cool Before Enjoying
Once baked, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Cooling helps them set up properly, making them easier to remove and enjoy without falling apart.
How to Serve Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and texture, sprinkle a few chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon on top just before serving. A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate also adds a decadent touch that pairs beautifully without overwhelming the cookie’s natural goodness.
Side Dishes
These cookies are lovely alongside a cup of herbal tea, a glass of cold almond milk, or even your morning coffee. They also make a nutritious accompaniment to yogurt or fresh fruit for a more complete snack or light breakfast.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of nut butters, fresh banana slices, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup nearby. This makes for a fun, interactive serving idea during gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies last longer, pop them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them on the counter—it’s a perfect way to have a healthy treat always on hand.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, gently reheat the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat, or the cookies might dry out.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut and almond butter?
Absolutely! Cashew or sunflower seed butter can work well if you’re avoiding peanuts or almonds. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might change slightly, but the cookie will still be delicious and healthy.
Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour or traditional baking ingredients. Just make sure your nut butters and add-ins are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
Can I add sweeteners if I prefer a sweeter cookie?
Definitely! While the banana adds natural sweetness, you can stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste. Chocolate chips or dried fruit also make fun, sweet additions.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for a slight golden color around the edges and a firm but still tender texture. They may feel soft initially but will set as they cool, so avoid overbaking to keep them chewy.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just be certain your peanut and almond butters contain no added dairy products.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for a wholesome, satisfying snack. It’s a perfect little homemade treat that brings together simplicity, health, and irresistible flavor in every bite. So, gather your ingredients and give it a whirl—you’re going to love how easy and delicious healthy eating can be.
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Print
Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a simple, nutritious treat perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Made with natural peanut butter, almond butter, and mashed banana, these cookies are naturally sweetened and gluten-free. With just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, they bake into soft, flavorful cookies that are satisfying and guilt-free.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: pinch of sea salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons all-natural almond butter
- 1 small banana (mashed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the cookies evenly.
- Mash Banana. In a mixing bowl, mash the small banana thoroughly until it becomes smooth and free of large lumps to help bind the ingredients together.
- Combine Ingredients. Add the natural peanut butter, almond butter, and ground cinnamon to the mashed banana. Mix thoroughly until the dough is fully combined. If desired, stir in a pinch of sea salt, maple syrup, or any optional add-ins like chocolate chips at this stage.
- Form Cookies. Roll the dough into 10 equal-sized balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Press each ball gently with a fork to flatten them slightly into cookie shapes.
- Bake Cookies. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly browned around the edges. Keep an eye to avoid over-baking.
- Cool & Serve. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a plate. This helps them set and improves texture before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by ensuring the peanut and almond butters are vegan certified.
- Add a tablespoon of pure maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter cookie.
- Optional add-ins such as chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be mixed into the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
