5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies

Are you on the lookout for a delightful snack that is both healthy and easy to make? Look no further! These 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies are the answer to your cravings. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these soft, chewy cookies that perfectly capture the comforting flavors of banana bread. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence any time of day. Let’s dive into the goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies. First and foremost, they are incredibly simple to make. You don’t need any fancy baking skills or equipment—just a mixing bowl and a baking sheet. Moreover, the natural sweetness from ripe bananas and pure maple syrup means there’s no need for refined sugars. These cookies are also versatile; enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a post-workout snack, or a wholesome dessert. Plus, they are a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Trust us, one bite and you’ll be hooked!

Ingredient List

To make these scrumptious 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies, you will need the following:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 2/3 cup) – The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1 egg – Acts as a binding agent to hold the cookies together.
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup – Adds extra sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour – A gluten-free alternative that gives the cookies a delightful texture.
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – Infuses warm, comforting flavors.
• Pinch sea salt – Enhances the sweetness of the cookies.
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional) – For those who want a little extra indulgence.

Must-Have Equipment

To prepare your 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients.
• Fork or potato masher – To mash the bananas until smooth.
• Baking sheet – A non-stick or lined baking sheet for baking the cookies.
• Spoon or cookie scoop – For portioning out the cookie dough.
• Oven – Essential for baking these delicious treats.

Cook 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Make sure there are no large lumps remaining.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the egg and pure maple syrup to the mashed bananas. Mix well until fully combined. Then, stir in the almond flour, ground cinnamon, and sea salt until a dough forms. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

These 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies are perfect for any season. Here are some ideas to enjoy them year-round:

• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist.
• Experiment with spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a seasonal flavor change.
• Drizzle with nut butter for added creaminess and protein.
• Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best bakers can encounter issues. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them when making 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies:

• Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure you have the correct proportions of ingredients, especially the almond flour. If the dough is too wet, you can add a little more almond flour.
• Dry Cookies: Make sure to measure your bananas accurately. Overly ripe bananas can add more moisture to the dough.
• Burnt Bottoms: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes early.
• Too Sweet: If you find the cookies too sweet for your liking, reduce the amount of maple syrup next time.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

These 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies are great for meal prep! Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freeze: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Reheat: Warm cookies in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of flour instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is key to keeping these cookies paleo-friendly, but if you need alternatives, try coconut flour. However, keep in mind that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you will need to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.

What if my bananas aren’t ripe enough?

If your bananas aren’t very ripe, they won’t provide the same level of sweetness. It’s best to look for bananas with brown spots on the skin, as they are sweeter and easier to mash.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! You can replace the egg 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 about 5 minutes until it thickens.

How can I make these cookies even healthier?

To boost the nutritional profile, consider adding chia seeds or hemp seeds for added fiber and protein. You can also swap the chocolate chips for dark chocolate that has a higher cocoa percentage for less sugar.

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In Closing

Baking these 5-Ingredient Paleo Banana Bread Cookies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating something wholesome and nourishing. These cookies are a delightful reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create a treat that’s both delicious and guilt-free. Whether you share them with friends and family or keep them all to yourself, we know you’ll love every bite. So the next time you have some overripe bananas, remember this easy recipe and indulge in a batch of these irresistibly soft cookies. Happy baking!