Banana Peanut Butter Cookies

Introduction

History

The history of Banana Peanut Butter Cookies can be traced back to the early 20th century when both bananas and peanut butter became staple ingredients in American kitchens. The recipe likely evolved from the classic peanut butter cookie, with bananas added for extra moisture and flavor. Over the years, this recipe has been adapted by countless home cooks and professional chefs alike, making it a beloved treat for many families.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Banana Peanut Butter Cookies come out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

- Cream the shortening, peanut butter, and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in lighter cookies.

- Sift the dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure an even distribution of the baking powder and soda.

- Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender.

- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies, which will help them bake uniformly.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect on their own, but for an extra special treat, consider serving them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe primarily uses the creaming method, where the fat and sugar are beaten together before other ingredients are added. This technique helps to incorporate air into the dough, resulting in lighter, softer cookies.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

- To reduce the fat content, substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce.

- If you're out of baking powder, use an additional 0.5 tsp of baking soda.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw (if frozen) and bring to room temperature before rolling and baking.

Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate or a simple glaze. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts or banana chips for added texture and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

These cookies pair beautifully with nutty or fruity teas, such as almond tea or peach tea. For a more indulgent pairing, try them with a dessert wine like Moscato.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. There's no need to reheat, but if you prefer them warm, a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making them a relatively indulgent treat. For a lighter option, consider reducing the sugar or substituting some of the shortening with applesauce.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Banana Peanut Butter Cookies contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are flour and sugar, providing the body with energy. The bananas also contribute natural sugars and dietary fiber.

Fats

These cookies contain about 8 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being peanut butter and shortening. Peanut butter provides heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while the shortening contributes to the cookies' tender texture.

Proteins

Banana Peanut Butter Cookies offer around 3 grams of protein per serving. The protein comes mainly from the peanut butter, making these cookies a more satisfying snack option compared to other sweets.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas add a nutritional boost to these cookies, providing essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. Peanut butter contributes additional nutrients, including magnesium and vitamin E.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens: peanuts and gluten. Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Banana Peanut Butter Cookies are a delicious treat that offers a balance of flavors and nutrients. While they contain beneficial vitamins, minerals, and proteins, they are also relatively high in calories, fats, and sugars. Enjoying them in moderation is key to fitting them into a healthy diet.

Summary

Banana Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With their rich nutritional profile and versatile recipe options, they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a quick snack, a delicious dessert, or a fun baking project, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a rainy afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. The pages were yellowed and creased, each recipe filled with handwritten notes and splatters of various ingredients. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Banana Peanut Butter Cookies caught my eye.

I had always enjoyed baking, but this recipe was unlike anything I had ever seen before. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter seemed unusual, but I was intrigued. I could almost taste the sweet and nutty flavors mingling together in a warm, chewy cookie. Without hesitation, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my cozy little kitchen.

As I mixed the dough, the aroma of bananas and peanut butter wafted through the air, filling my senses with delight. I carefully spooned the dough onto baking sheets, shaping each cookie with love and care. The cookies baked to a golden perfection, the edges slightly crisp and the centers soft and chewy.

When they were finally cool enough to taste, I took a bite and was instantly transported to a world of sweet bliss. The flavors melded together perfectly, the bananas adding a natural sweetness while the peanut butter added a rich and nutty depth. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my baking repertoire.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, each one marveling at the unique combination of flavors. I have made these cookies for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions, each batch disappearing faster than I could bake them. The recipe has become a symbol of love and comfort, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious treat with those you care about.

As I bake these cookies now, I can't help but think back to that rainy afternoon when I first discovered the recipe. It was a moment of serendipity, a chance encounter with a culinary gem that would bring me so much joy in the years to come. I am grateful for the cookbook that led me to this recipe, and for the countless memories I have created while baking these delicious cookies.

So here's to the Banana Peanut Butter Cookies that have brought so much happiness into my life. May they continue to delight and inspire for generations to come. And may they always remind us of the simple pleasures found in a warm, homemade treat made with love.

Categories

| Banana Recipes | Guinean Recipes | New Guinean Desserts | New Guinean Recipes | Peanut Butter Cookie Recipes | Peanut Butter Recipes |

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