Description

Soft, muffin-top-like cookies infused with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These Gluten-Free Banana Bread Cookies are the perfect treat for those who love the comforting taste of banana bread in a portable, bite-sized form. With a gluten-free twist and a touch of chocolate chips, these cookies are irresistible and easy to make.

Ingredients

• For the Cookies:
• 125g ripe banana (about 1 medium banana, mashed)
• 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• For the Frosting:
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Preparation Method

Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Beat in the egg and egg yolk until fully incorporated.

Gently fold in the mashed banana and the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Bake the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Assemble:
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on each one. Garnish with additional mini chocolate chips for a decorative touch.

Tips and Conclusion

Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.

Cinnamon kick: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced note.

Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes for the frosting.

These Gluten-Free Banana Bread Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, sweet, and indulgent. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Share this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to keep exploring for more delicious gluten-free creations!