Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of peanut butter slowly baking into something golden and warm can bring back the coziest of memories. Pair it with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and you create a cookie that isn’t just delicious—it’s comforting, familiar, and nourishing. Maybe you remember the joy of baking with a loved one, or maybe you’re just looking for something healthier to satisfy your sweet tooth. Either way, peanut butter banana cookies offer a soft, flavorful snack that feels just right.

This guide will walk you through the process of making these cookies from scratch, offering practical tips and variations so you can create a version that suits your lifestyle and taste.

What Are Peanut Butter Banana Cookies?

Peanut butter banana cookies are a soft-baked treat made from a simple blend of mashed bananas and creamy peanut butter. You won’t need complicated techniques or specialty tools—just a bowl, a spoon, and your favorite ingredients.

Why this cookie works:

Naturally sweetened by ripe bananas
Protein-rich from the peanut butter
Can be tailored to dietary needs (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free)

This cookie bridges the gap between wholesome and indulgent, making it a versatile addition to your recipe rotation.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

To keep your cookies simple and nutritious, the ingredients should be both accessible and purposeful.

Basic Ingredient List

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Ripe bananas	2 medium	Use overripe for maximum sweetness
Creamy peanut butter	1 cup	Natural, unsweetened preferred
Rolled oats	1½ cups	Adds texture; choose gluten-free if needed
Honey or maple syrup	2–3 tbsp	Adjust based on banana ripeness
Baking powder	1 tsp	Slight rise and fluffiness
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Enhances the overall flavor
Salt	¼ tsp	Balances sweetness
Chocolate chips (optional)	½ cup	Adds richness and visual appeal

Optional Add-ins

Ground flaxseed or chia seeds for added nutrition
Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
Shredded coconut for a tropical twist

These base ingredients create a cookie that’s not only tasty but also rich in nutrients.

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Simple Steps for Baking Success

You can make this cookie dough in one bowl, making cleanup quick and easy.

Step-by-step instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mash bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth.
Mix in peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Add oats, baking powder, and salt, stirring until the dough is well-combined.
Fold in optional ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts.
Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a tablespoon or cookie scoop.
Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

Use the ripest bananas you can find for maximum sweetness.
Avoid overbaking—cookies will firm up as they cool.
Chill the dough for 10 minutes before baking for more uniform cookies.

Benefits of Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

A Wholesome Treat with Everyday Ingredients

These cookies aren’t just good—they’re good for you. By focusing on whole ingredients, they offer more than just sweetness.

Nutritional Highlights:

High in protein and healthy fats from peanut butter
Natural sugars from bananas and honey
Fiber-rich due to oats and optional flax or chia
No refined sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives

Each cookie provides energy without the sugar crash, making them ideal for mid-morning snacks, lunchboxes, or even a post-workout treat.

Recipe Variations for Every Preference

Customize Your Cookies Without Compromise

If you want to tailor this recipe to specific diets or flavor profiles, here are several ways to do it:

For a high-protein cookie:

Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder
Use egg or Greek yogurt for extra density

For vegan-friendly cookies:

Use maple syrup instead of honey
Ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free

For gluten-free needs:

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats

Nut-free version:

Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini

Double chocolate edition:

Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder and dark chocolate chunks

With small adjustments, you can transform this cookie into a variety of delicious alternatives that meet different dietary preferences.

Storage and Shelf Life

Keep Your Cookies Fresh and Flavorful

Whether you bake a small batch or a double one, knowing how to store your cookies will keep them tasting fresh.

Storage Tips:

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Refrigerator: Keeps well for 5–7 days; great for planning ahead
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months between sheets of parchment

Reheating advice:

Microwave for 10–12 seconds for a fresh-baked feel
Toast lightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a crisp edge

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Enjoy Peanut Butter Banana Cookies Anytime

You can enjoy these cookies on their own or as part of a balanced snack or meal.

Ways to serve:

With breakfast: Pair with a smoothie, yogurt, or oatmeal
As an afternoon pick-me-up: Enjoy with green tea or almond milk
For dessert: Drizzle with dark chocolate or sandwich with nut butter
For kids: Cut into fun shapes or add colorful sprinkles for appeal

Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them popular with children and adults alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make peanut butter banana cookies without oats?

Yes, almond flour or coconut flour can be used as alternatives, but you’ll need to adjust quantities to maintain consistency.

Do these cookies need eggs?

No eggs are needed. The bananas provide enough moisture and binding power.

Can I make the cookies more crunchy?

Yes. Bake for an additional 2–3 minutes and consider adding chopped nuts for texture.

Is it okay to use chunky peanut butter?

Definitely. It will add a bit of crunch and a nutty bite to each cookie.

Are peanut butter banana cookies safe for toddlers?

They’re an excellent option for toddlers, especially if you use unsweetened ingredients and avoid whole nuts.

Peanut butter banana cookies stand out because of how simple they are to make and how rewarding they are to eat. With a few ripe bananas, a scoop of peanut butter, and some pantry staples, you can whip up something that feels nourishing and tastes incredible.

They’re soft. They’re rich. They’re naturally sweet. More than that, they bring comfort in every bite. Whether you’re baking for your family, preparing healthy snacks for the week, or simply craving a treat that won’t weigh you down, this recipe will serve you well.