Name: Banana Snickerdoodles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (but not melted); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 2 medium bananas, mashed (about 1 cup); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Introduction to Banana Snickerdoodles

Why Banana Snickerdoodles are a must-try!

If you're looking to spice up your dessert game, Banana Snickerdoodles are an absolute delight that you won’t want to miss! These cookies marry the classic cinnamon-sugar flavor of traditional Snickerdoodles with the rich sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a deliciously soft and chewy treat. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also serve as a clever way to use up those overripe bananas that are lurking on your kitchen counter.

Imagine this: the moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with the comforting warmth of cinnamon, followed by the luscious banana flavor that makes each cookie uniquely scrumptious. And let's not forget about the texture—these cookies are perfectly pillowy and melt-in-your-mouth good.

What’s particularly great is how easy they are to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Plus, they’re a fantastic option for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying while cozying up on the couch with your favorite show.

So why not give these Banana Snickerdoodles a try? Your taste buds will thank you! For more inspiration, check out this article on the benefits of using bananas in baking.

Ingredients for Banana Snickerdoodles

When it comes to whipping up a batch of delicious Banana Snickerdoodles, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect blend of softness and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make those mouthwatering treats:

Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup (170 g), softened but not melted—this is crucial for a rich, buttery flavor.
Granulated Sugar: 1 ½ cups (300 g) for sweetness and that signature Snickerdoodle texture.
Large Egg: Just one, at room temperature, to bind the ingredients together.
Ripe Bananas: 2 medium, mashed (about 1 cup) add that delicious banana flavor and moisture.
Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon for an aromatic touch.
All-Purpose Flour: 3 ¼ cups (406 g) to form the structure of your cookies.
Cream of Tartar: 1 teaspoon, a classic ingredient in Snickerdoodles for that tangy flavor and fluffy texture.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, to help the cookies rise.
Kosher Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.

Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

Granulated Sugar: 3 tablespoons
Ground Cinnamon: 3 teaspoons for that irresistible topping.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a batch of Banana Snickerdoodles that will have everyone reaching for more. If you're looking for tips on selecting the ripest bananas or the best baking techniques, check out sources like King Arthur Baking for expert advice!

Step-by-step Preparation of Banana Snickerdoodles

Making Banana Snickerdoodles is a delightful journey filled with the warm scents of cinnamon and the sweet aroma of ripe bananas. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat!

Gather your ingredients

Before you dive into baking, it's essential to have everything you need ready at hand. For these delicious Banana Snickerdoodles, you will need:

¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 medium bananas (mashed)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the cinnamon sugar coating:

3 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Having your ingredients prepped and measured makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Who doesn’t like a seamless baking experience, right?

Cream the butter and sugar

In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened butter and sugar. Use the mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial; creaming the butter and sugar properly will ensure your cookies are tender and chewy.

Want to know a little secret? If you take your butter out a little ahead of time, it will have the perfect consistency for creaming. Also, feel free to check out this guide for more tips on the creaming technique!

Incorporate the banana and egg mixture

Once your butter-sugar blend is looking fabulous, it’s time to add in the large egg, your mashed bananas, and the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture together until everything is fully incorporated. The bananas will add moisture and a subtle sweetness that elevates the classic snickerdoodle experience. Just imagine that sweetness melding with the warm fragrant cinnamon later!

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the banana batter with your mixer on low speed. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Remember, we want soft and chewy Banana Snickerdoodles, not cannonballs!

Shape and roll the cookies

Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into neat balls. Next, in a wide bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for your coating. Roll each cookie dough ball in this cinnamon sugar, ensuring an even coating, then place them on a prepared cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.

Once you’ve got them all lined up, it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are just lightly golden. You’ll soon be greeted with a warm, delectable aroma that will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!

Happy baking!

Variations on Banana Snickerdoodles

Elevate your Banana Snickerdoodles experience with these delicious variations! They’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also keep things exciting in the kitchen.

Nutty Banana Snickerdoodles

If you're a fan of nuts, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough before baking. The crunch of nuts beautifully complements the softness of the banana and the spiciness of the cinnamon. Plus, it adds a hearty dose of protein!

Chocolate Chip Banana Snickerdoodles

For those who can’t resist a touch of chocolate, mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to your dough. The gooey chocolate melds perfectly with the banana's sweetness, creating a cookie that's simply irresistible. These easy swaps make baking fun, and you'll find yourself with a new favorite treat!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out Taste of Home and Serious Eats for additional ideas!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Banana Snickerdoodles

Perfecting Your Banana Snickerdoodles

Use Overripe Bananas: For the best flavor, go for super ripe bananas. They should have plenty of brown spots for optimal sweetness!
Chill the Dough: If you prefer thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading while baking.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Since every oven varies, checking them around the 8-minute mark will ensure they don’t overbake.

Storing Your Cookies

Keep Them Fresh: Store your Banana Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer, separating layers with parchment paper.

For more tips and variations, explore resources like King Arthur Baking for baking insights and inspiration!

Serving Suggestions for Banana Snickerdoodles

When it comes to enjoying your delightful Banana Snickerdoodles, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to elevate your cookie experience:

Pair with Coffee or Tea: These cookies make an excellent accompaniment to your favorite brew. The sweetness of the snickerdoodles beautifully contrasts with a nice cup of black coffee or herbal tea.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Make a fun and indulgent treat by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream between two warm cookies. It’s a simple twist that takes your dessert to the next level!
Add Fresh Fruit: Consider serving a few cookies alongside sliced strawberries or blueberries for a splash of color and freshness.

For more inspiration, check out articles on dessert pairings and cookie serving ideas from reputable sources like Food52 or Serious Eats. Enjoy your Banana Snickerdoodles!

Time Breakdown for Banana Snickerdoodles

When you're ready to whip up Banana Snickerdoodles, here’s a quick look at the time you'll need:

Preparation time

The prep stage takes about 20 minutes. Get your ingredients ready and mix them up for that delicious dough!

Baking time

Once your cookies are rolled, they’ll need about 8-10 minutes in the oven, depending on how soft or crispy you prefer them.

Total time

In just 28 minutes, you can enjoy these delightful cookies from start to finish! Perfect for a quick treat or surprise guests.

If you're feeling adventurous, check out this article for more on baking tips to elevate your cookie-making skills!

Nutritional Facts for Banana Snickerdoodles

Calories

One delightful Banana Snickerdoodle packs about 80 calories. This makes it an excellent choice for an indulgent treat that won’t completely derail your day.

Sugar Content

With approximately 9 grams of sugar per cookie, these sweet gems provide a satisfying taste without overwhelming your daily sugar intake—perfect for those moments of craving!

Dietary Fiber

Thanks to the inclusion of mashed bananas, each cookie also delivers a modest amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and helping you feel fuller longer. Toss the overripe bananas into the mix for a nutritious twist.

Consider adding in some oats to boost the fiber content even more! For additional information on dietary fiber, check out Harvard Health.

These Banana Snickerdoodles serve not just as a delicious dessert but also as a mindful snack option. Enjoy them guilt-free!

FAQs about Banana Snickerdoodles

Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen bananas for your Banana Snickerdoodles. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them. This will help ensure the dough maintains the right consistency.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your Banana Snickerdoodles fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about 3-5 days. If you want to savor them longer, consider freezing them—just place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to three months!

What can I do with leftover dough?

If you’ve made more dough than you need, don’t worry! You can refrigerate the leftover dough for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop and roll in cinnamon sugar before baking straight from the fridge or freezer!

Feel free to explore more cooking tips on our favorite baking blog or check this amazing banana recipe!

Conclusion on Banana Snickerdoodles

In summary, Banana Snickerdoodles are a delightful twist on a beloved classic. With their soft texture and hints of banana, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while minimizing food waste. Try making them for your next gathering; they’re sure to impress!