Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe

Soft, chewy, and bursting with nostalgic comfort, Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are the perfect solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter. This easy baking recipe brings together two classic flavors—rich peanut butter and naturally sweet bananas—to create a cookie that’s wholesome, flavorful, and totally addictive.

Whether you’re a home baker looking for new baking recipes banana lovers will appreciate, or just someone with a sweet tooth and a couple of spotty bananas, this recipe is here to satisfy.

🍌 Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe

There’s something deeply satisfying about peanut butter and banana together. Maybe it’s the creamy texture, maybe it’s the sweetness balanced by a hint of salt. Or maybe it’s because these ingredients remind us of simple childhood snacks. In any case, turning them into cookies takes this combo to a whole new level.

Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking rotation:

• ✅ Uses Up Ripe Bananas – Don’t throw them out! Transform them into soft, delicious cookies.
• ✅ One-Bowl Magic – Fewer dishes and less cleanup.
• ✅ Kid-Friendly – Soft texture and sweet taste make them perfect for little hands.
• ✅ Versatile Base – Add-ins like oats, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts work beautifully.
• ✅ Great Texture – These aren’t crunchy cookies. They’re soft, tender, and a little cakey.

Whether you want to bake with your kids or prep an after-school snack, this cookie recipe checks all the boxes.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part? These cookies require pantry staples you probably already have. Here’s your shopping list:

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup ripe mashed banana (2 large bananas)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or conventional)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg (room temperature)

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

Optional Mix-ins

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for a Reese’s vibe)
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or walnuts (for crunch)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (for texture)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for warm flavor)

🍴 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick silicone mat.

Step 2: Mash Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Some small lumps are okay.

🍌 Tip: The darker and spottier the banana, the better. They’ll be sweeter and more flavorful.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla to the mashed banana. Whisk or stir vigorously until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon.

Step 5: Stir in Add-Ins

If using chocolate chips, nuts, or oats, fold them in now.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the tops with a fork or your fingers.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 9–12 minutes until the edges look set and lightly golden. The centers may appear soft—that’s perfect!

⏱️ Tip: Don’t overbake! These cookies are best soft and chewy.

Step 8: Cool

Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

🧁 Texture & Taste Profile

• Texture: Soft, slightly chewy, and tender. Almost cake-like in the center.
• Flavor: Balanced between the nutty depth of peanut butter and the natural sweetness of banana, with hints of vanilla and brown sugar.

If you love banana bread, but wish it came in cookie form—you’ve found your match.

👩‍🍳 Baking Science: Why It Works

Bananas serve as:

• A natural sweetener
• A moisture agent
• A partial egg substitute

Peanut butter brings:

• Fat for richness
• Protein for structure
• Flavor that complements banana beautifully

Brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper flavor, while baking soda helps the cookies rise just enough without puffing up like muffins.

🔄 Make It Your Own: Variations & Add-Ins

There are countless ways to take this base recipe and customize it:

1. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Add 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. A classic combo that adds a melty texture.

2. Banana Oat Peanut Butter Cookies

Stir in 1/2 cup rolled oats for a heartier cookie.

3. Chunky Monkey Style

Add chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, and a dash of cinnamon.

4. Healthy Version

Use oat flour or almond flour, swap sugar for maple syrup or honey, and reduce quantity slightly for the right texture.

5. Vegan Option

Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 minutes) instead of a real egg.

❄️ Storing & Freezing Tips

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep them soft by placing a slice of bread in the container.

Freezer

To freeze baked cookies: Lay in a single layer on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

To freeze dough: Scoop dough balls onto a tray, freeze until firm, and store in a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to baking time.

🎯 Troubleshooting Common Issues

👪 Perfect for All Ages and Occasions

These cookies are a go-to for:

• Lunchbox treats
• Post-workout snacks
• Holiday cookie trays
• Lazy weekend baking
• Breakfast on-the-go
• Quick desserts for guests

Plus, since they’re slightly healthier than typical cookies (thanks to the fruit and peanut butter), you won’t feel guilty reaching for a second… or third.

🌟 Peanut Butter Banana Cookie FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid. Then mash and proceed with the recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or almond flour (adjust texture as needed).

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use two baking sheets and rotate halfway through baking.

Do they taste like banana bread?

They have a similar banana flavor, but the texture is closer to a soft cookie than banana bread.

🧡 Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Cookie

This Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. It’s everything you want in a cookie—easy, sweet, wholesome, and delicious. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your kids, or a crowd, these cookies hit the spot.

Instead of tossing overripe bananas in the trash, turn them into something amazing. Once you try them, these cookies might just replace your classic banana bread forever.