These healthy peanut butter banana cookies are soft, chewy, and incredibly easy to make with just four ingredients. They are dairy-free, gluten-free, plant-based, and contain no refined sugars, making them a wholesome treat for any time of

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1 ripe banana
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/2 cup natural almond butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: Pinch of sea salt

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mash the Banana: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
Mix Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, almond butter, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt (if using) to the mashed banana. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a cohesive dough.
Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of a fork to create a cookie shape.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 cookie (assuming the recipe yields 12 cookies)
Calories: Approximately 150
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 80mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 6g

Why These Cookies Are a Game Changer

Healthy baking has been gaining popularity in recent years, and these soft and chewy peanut butter banana cookies are a perfect example of how nutritious ingredients can come together to create a delicious treat. These cookies offer a great alternative to store-bought cookies that often contain refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives. By using simple, wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a naturally sweetened, protein-packed snack that fits into a variety of dietary lifestyles, including vegan and gluten-free diets. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just four main ingredients, it is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time. Whether you are looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these cookies check all the boxes.

Health Benefits of Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Each ingredient in these cookies brings significant nutritional benefits, making them a smart choice for those who want to indulge in something sweet while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Bananas: Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber. They provide natural sweetness and act as a binding agent in the recipe, eliminating the need for eggs or dairy products. Their natural sugars are slowly released into the bloodstream, providing a steady source of energy.
Peanut Butter & Almond Butter: These nut butters add a good amount of protein and healthy fats, which help keep you full for longer. They also contain important nutrients like magnesium, vitamin E, and antioxidants that support heart health and overall wellness.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon not only adds warmth and depth to the flavor of these cookies but also boasts anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties. It enhances the natural sweetness of the banana without the need for refined sugar.
No Refined Sugar: Unlike traditional cookies, this recipe does not use white or brown sugar. Instead, the natural sweetness of bananas provides just the right amount of sweetness without causing blood sugar spikes.

Who Should Try These Cookies?

These cookies are perfect for various dietary preferences and lifestyles:

Vegans: Since the recipe does not contain dairy or eggs, it is completely plant-based.
Gluten-Free Individuals: There are no wheat-based ingredients, making these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Fitness Enthusiasts: With protein from the peanut butter and healthy fats, these cookies are a great post-workout snack to support muscle recovery.
Kids and Families: They make a great lunchbox snack or after-school treat that parents can feel good about giving to their children.

How to Customize This Recipe

One of the best things about these peanut butter banana cookies is their versatility. While the basic recipe is already delicious, there are many ways to customize it to suit your personal taste and dietary needs.

Add Chocolate Chips: If you want to enhance the sweetness, adding dark chocolate chips can make these cookies feel more indulgent while still keeping them healthy.
Include Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can add a crunchy texture and an extra dose of healthy fats and protein.
Use Different Nut Butters: While peanut butter and almond butter work great in this recipe, you can experiment with cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or even tahini for a unique twist.
Incorporate Oats: If you want a more textured cookie, adding a small amount of rolled oats can enhance the chewiness and provide extra fiber.
Sweeten with Maple Syrup or Honey: If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, a drizzle of pure maple syrup or honey can be mixed into the dough.

Storage and Shelf Life

Since these cookies are made with natural ingredients and do not contain preservatives, proper storage is essential to maintaining their freshness.

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Refrigeration: To extend their shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Simply place them in a sealed container or freezer bag and store them for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.

With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy, satisfying snack.
With Yogurt: Pairing them with Greek yogurt can add extra protein and a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
With a Smoothie: A fruit smoothie or a protein shake can complement the cookies for a well-rounded breakfast or snack.
With Nut Butter Drizzle: Drizzling extra peanut or almond butter on top can enhance the nutty flavor and make them feel even more indulgent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the best possible outcome, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making these cookies:

Using an Overripe or Underripe Banana: A banana that is too green won’t be sweet enough, while an overly ripe banana may result in cookies that are too soft.
Skipping the Mixing Step: Properly mixing all ingredients ensures the right consistency. Be sure to stir well so that the banana fully incorporates with the nut butter.
Overbaking: These cookies are meant to be soft and chewy. Overbaking them will result in a dry texture, so keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven once the edges turn golden.

Conclusion

Soft and chewy peanut butter banana cookies are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health. This simple recipe brings together wholesome ingredients to create a delicious, nutritious snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, a healthy dessert, or a kid-friendly treat, these cookies fit the bill. Plus, with endless customization options, you can easily tweak the recipe to match your preferences. Try making a batch today and experience the perfect blend of nutty, sweet, and chewy goodness in every bite!

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