The Best Banana Bread Cookies (6 Ingredients!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Banana Bread Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with classic banana bread flavor—all with just 6 simple ingredients. These cookies are perfect for using up ripe bananas and make a quick, satisfying treat for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. With no fancy steps or equipment required, they’re a go-to for busy days or last-minute baking cravings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ripe bananasrolled oatsbrown sugarvanilla extractall-purpose flourbaking soda

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.

Stir in brown sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add flour and baking soda, mixing just until incorporated.

Fold in rolled oats until the dough is thick and sticky.

Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly.

Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden.

Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 18 cookies.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Use whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie.
Swap oats for quick oats for a softer texture.
Drizzle with peanut butter or melted chocolate for a fun topping.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week for longer freshness.
Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm, soft treat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

Are these cookies very sweet?
They’re mildly sweet, similar to banana bread—add chocolate chips for more sweetness.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

Do I need a mixer?
No, everything mixes easily by hand.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled?
Yes, but the texture will be a bit softer.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, they’ll still be sweet from the banana alone.

Are these cookies soft or crispy?
They’re soft and cake-like, just like banana bread in cookie form.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—great for sharing or freezing extras.

Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling required—bake right away.

What type of bananas work best?
Very ripe, spotty bananas provide the best flavor and sweetness.

Conclusion

The Best Banana Bread Cookies are a quick, fuss-free treat that packs all the cozy flavor of banana bread into an easy cookie format. With just 6 ingredients and endless room for customization, they’re perfect for any time you need a sweet, comforting bite—no loaf pan required.

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