Banana cookies

Banana and chocolate cookies – a delicious recipe to save overripe bananas

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 12-13 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 cookies

In a world where food waste is becoming an increasing problem, it is always good to know how to transform leftover ingredients into something delicious. Banana and chocolate cookies are a perfect choice to use those bananas that no one wants anymore. These cookies are crumbly, flavorful, and extremely easy to make. Plus, the combination of the sweetness of the bananas with creamy chocolate makes them irresistible!

Ingredients needed

- 1 ripe banana (approximately 150 g)
- 75 g butter (at room temperature)
- 125 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 200 g flour
- 50 g chocolate (or chocolate chips)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Ingredient details

Banana: Choose a well-ripened banana with yellow skin and possibly some brown spots. This will add sweetness and moisture to the cookies.

Butter: Soft butter is essential for getting tender cookies. If you don’t have butter, you can use margarine, but the taste will be different.

Sugar: Use white sugar for a finer texture or brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor.

Chocolate: You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your preferences. If you are not a big fan of chocolate, you can omit this ingredient and add dried fruits or chopped nuts instead.

Step by step: Preparing the cookies

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (375°F). This will ensure even baking and a perfect texture for the cookies.

2. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer and beat them together for 2-3 minutes until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture.

3. Add the egg: Incorporate the egg into the mixture and continue mixing until well combined.

4. Banana: Use a fork to mash the banana until it becomes a smooth paste. Add it to the bowl and mix well. Its flavor will enrich the cookies!

5. Chocolate: Chop the chocolate into small cubes (about 1 cm). Add these pieces to the cookie mixture and gently fold with a spatula to distribute evenly.

6. Flour and baking powder: Sifting the flour together with the baking powder is essential to avoid lumps. Add the flour mixture to the bowl and mix until everything is well incorporated.

7. Shaping the cookies: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Use a spoon or piping bag to form small dollops of dough on the tray. Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies, as they will spread a little while baking.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and bake the cookies for 12-13 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden. Be careful not to leave them too long, as they will harden once cooled.

9. Finishing: Once the cookies are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the tray. Then, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look and an extra sweet taste.

Practical tips

- Chocolate-free version: If you prefer a healthier option, you can omit the chocolate and add some chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or dried apricots. These will give the cookies an interesting texture and a surprising taste.

- How to store the cookies: Banana cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. In this case, place them on a tray and put them in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

- Serving: These cookies are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a cup of tea or coffee, but also with a glass of cold milk, which perfectly complements the banana flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each cookie has about 80 calories, making them a relatively light choice for a dessert. Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and B6, while chocolate brings antioxidants and a touch of happiness due to the endorphins it stimulates.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other fruits instead of bananas? Yes, you can use peaches or grated apples, but keep in mind that the texture and taste will be different.

How can I make the cookies less sweet? Reducing the amount of sugar or using less ripe bananas will make the cookies less sweet.

Conclusion

Banana and chocolate cookies are a simple, quick, and delicious recipe that will bring a smile to your face. Whether you make them for yourself or for loved ones, they will surely become a family favorite. Not only will you avoid food waste, but you will also delight your taste buds! So, the next time you have a forgotten banana in the fridge, don’t hesitate to try this wonderful recipe. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 egg, 200 g flour, 75 g butter, 125 g sugar, 1 banana, 50 g chocolate or chocolate chips, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, powdered sugar

 Tags:  banana biscuits biscuits cookies bananas dessert with bananas