After a particularly hectic week filled with deadlines and on-the-go meals, I found myself craving something wholesome yet indulgent. That’s when I decided to whip up these Easy Paleo Banana Bread Cookies, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The scent of cinnamon and sweet ripe bananas wafted through my kitchen, instantly melting away the week’s stress. With just six simple ingredients, these cookies ooze comfort without the guilt.

Perfect for those who are tired of the fast food grind, these gluten-free and low-sugar delights provide a tender, chewy texture reminiscent of banana bread but in a handheld format. Plus, they’re easy to customize—swap in chocolate chips for a decadent treat or toss in some nuts for added crunch. Whether you follow a paleo diet or simply enjoy clean eating, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone in the family. Ready to find out how to whip up this healthy snack? Let’s get baking!

Why are Best Banana Bread Cookies so amazing?

Simplicity: With only six ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Healthy Indulgence: Guilt-free and low-sugar, these cookies let you enjoy sweet flavors without the worry.

Versatile: Customize to your heart’s content—add chocolate chips or nuts for unique twists.

Texture: Expect a chewy, tender bite that captures the essence of traditional banana bread.

Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or quiet nights in, everyone will love these easy-to-make treats.

Flavor: With warm spices and sweet ripe bananas, each cookie delivers a delightful taste experience.

Best Banana Bread Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Almond Flour – The primary ingredient that keeps these cookies gluten-free and adds a lovely texture.
• Baking Soda – This leavening agent is essential for the cookies to rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Sea Salt – A pinch helps enhance the sweetness and overall flavor of the cookies.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting spice that works beautifully with the banana flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Pure Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that provides moisture; can be swapped with honey for a different flavor profile.
• Overly ripe mashed bananas (about 4 medium) – The star of the show, these bananas ensure your cookies are sweet and moist.

Optional Add-ins
• Egg (or Flax Egg) – Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients; this can be omitted for a vegan version.
• Chocolate Chips – For an indulgent touch, fold in these to enhance sweetness and richness.
• Nut Butter – Optional for creaminess, it also boosts flavor; peanut butter or almond butter work great!
• Chopped Nuts – These provide delightful crunch and can be added for extra texture and flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – A splash could take the flavor up a notch; optional but highly recommended for depth of taste.
• Extra Cinnamon or Ground Cloves – Sprinkle in more spice for added warmth or a unique twist; entirely up to your taste preference.

Dive into the process of creating these Best Banana Bread Cookies and enjoy a healthier indulgence that the whole family will delight in!

How to Make Best Banana Bread Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, baking soda, sea salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
Mash Bananas: Take your overly ripe bananas and mash them in a separate bowl until smooth. This step is crucial for achieving that sweet, banana flavor throughout the cookies.
Combine Ingredients: Add the mashed bananas to the dry mixture, stirring gently until everything is incorporated. Drizzle in the maple syrup and your egg (or flax egg) if you’re using one, mixing until fully combined.
Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. These cookies won’t spread much, so shape them as you’d like.
Flatten Gently: With a fork, gently press down on each cookie dough mound to flatten slightly. This helps with even baking and creates that classic cookie look.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 26-30 minutes or until the cookies are set and golden around the edges. Allow cooling on a wire rack to firm up before enjoying!

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra maple syrup before serving for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Best Banana Bread Cookies?

Imagine savoring a delightful treat that balances sweet and wholesome flavors, inviting you to create a full meal experience.

Creamy Nut Butter: Pair these cookies with almond or peanut butter for an extra richness that complements their sweetness.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer with coconut yogurt and granola for a balanced breakfast or snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Spicy Hot Chocolate: A warm, chocolaty beverage can highlight the cinnamon notes in the cookies, creating a cozy vibe.
Chia Seed Pudding: Light, creamy, and packed with health benefits, this pudding provides a lovely texture contrast.
Herbal Tea: Herbal blends like chamomile or mint can refresh your palate, beautifully balancing the sweet banana flavors.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those who want more indulgence, a simple chocolate drizzle can turn these cookies into a dessert sensation.
Berry Compote: Drizzling a homemade berry compote over the cookies adds a sweet-tart flavor boost that’s irresistible.
Walnut Brownies: For the chocolate lovers, serve these cookies alongside walnut brownies for a rich, decadent treat.
Iced Coffee: A chilled coffee serves as a delightful refreshment alongside the cookies, enhancing their hearty banana flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Best Banana Bread Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can easily prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients as directed, then scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and place the chilled dough directly in for baking. For even better quality, after baking, let the cookies cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This way, you can enjoy homemade, guilt-free treats whenever the craving strikes—with minimal effort!

Best Banana Bread Cookies Variations

Ready to put your own spin on these delicious cookies? Let your creativity shine with these fun and flavorful ideas!

Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour or oat flour. This keeps it safe for those with nut allergies while maintaining a delicious taste.
Heartier Texture: Add 1/2 cup of rolled oats to the dough for a satisfying crunch and extra fiber. Oats also blend beautifully with the banana flavor, making them a hearty choice.
Sweets Upgrade: Toss in a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries for bursts of sweetness in every bite. These little additions can elevate the cookie experience to a whole new level!
Natural Sweetness: Swap maple syrup for honey or coconut sugar to experiment with different flavor notes. Each sweetener gives a unique touch that can change the whole vibe of your cookies.
Warm Spices: Enhance the flavor with spices like nutmeg or ground cloves. A little adjustability goes a long way in bringing warmth and depth to your cookie.
Creamy Boost: Stir in some nut butter, like almond or peanut, into the batter for a creamy richness that complements the bananas perfectly. This addition not only wraps the flavors together but also adds healthy fats.
Crunchy Elements: Mix in chopped nuts or seeds for some extra crunch and flavor contrasts. Walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds can be delightful surprises.
Fruity Twist: Add in some applesauce or shredded coconut for a fruity layer or texture. Both introduce moisture and unique sweet tones, making each cookie excitingly different.

Expert Tips for Making Best Banana Bread Cookies

Banana Ripeness: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture. Overripe bananas yield a better flavor.
Dough Consistency: If your dough seems too wet, add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of almond flour to achieve the right texture for the best banana bread cookies.
Cookie Shape: Remember that these cookies won’t spread much during baking; shape them just how you want them before placing them in the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap almond flour for sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option or add oats for a heartier bite.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies in the final minutes as ovens can vary; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Store and Freeze Best Banana Bread Cookies

Room Temperature: Allow cookies to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their moist texture.

Freezer: Freeze individual cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies after freezing, allow them to thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Best Banana Bread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for the best cookies?
Absolutely, the riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be! Look for bananas with brown spots and a soft texture—aim for very ripe ones as they will provide maximum sweetness and moisture.

What is the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay delicious for up to 5 days. Just be sure to allow them to cool completely before storing to maintain moisture!

Can I freeze the banana bread cookies?
Very! To freeze, lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze them first. Once they’re fully frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too wet?
If your dough seems too wet, don’t worry! Gradually add in 1-2 tablespoons of almond flour until reaching the desired consistency. This will help give your cookies the proper structure and texture they need for baking!

Can these cookies be made vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, simply omit the egg and replace it with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. You’ll still enjoy the chewy, satisfying texture while keeping the cookies plant-based!

Are these cookies suitable for kids and those with allergies?
Yes! These cookies are made with gluten-free ingredients, and you can easily customize them based on dietary needs. If you’re making them for someone with nut allergies, substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour or oat flour for a nut-free option. They’re a sweet treat that’s safe for the whole family!