Get ready to indulge in a dessert that combines two classics into one irresistible treat! We’re thrilled to share our Banana Split Cookie Recipe, a delightful fusion of the nostalgic banana split sundae and the comforting warmth of freshly baked cookies. This unique dessert captures the essence of creamy bananas, rich chocolate, and sweet strawberries all in a chewy cookie form.
Imagine biting into a soft cookie loaded with banana flavor, studded with chocolate chips, and topped with a hint of fruity goodness. It’s a fun twist that brings the ice cream parlor right into your kitchen! Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress everyone.
About Banana Split Cookies
Dive into the delightful world of Banana Split Cookies, where the nostalgic charm of a classic banana split sundae meets the comforting warmth of homemade cookies. We’re thrilled to share this inventive recipe that transforms the iconic dessert into a portable treat bursting with flavors. Our Banana Split Cookie Recipe captures the essence of creamy bananas, rich chocolate, and fruity sweetness all in a soft chewy bite.
Why We Love Banana Split Cookies
Let’s talk about why these cookies hold a special place in our hearts. First off they’re a fantastic fusion of textures and tastes. Imagine the softness of a freshly baked cookie mingling with the gooeyness of melted chocolate chips and the fruity punch of banana. It’s like enjoying a banana split without the mess of melting ice cream. Plus they’re incredibly versatile—perfect for a quick snack a party dessert or even a thoughtful gift. We’ve baked these for family gatherings and watched both kids and adults reach for seconds with wide-eyed delight.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Our inspiration for this Banana Split Cookie Recipe stems from lazy summer days spent at old-fashioned ice cream parlors. We wanted to recreate that joyful experience of digging into a banana split complete with all the toppings in a form you can enjoy any time of year. By infusing banana flavor into the dough adding chocolate chips for that sundae vibe and tossing in hints of other fruity elements we’ve crafted a cookie that brings back those sweet memories with every bite. It’s our way of bringing the parlor to your kitchen.
Nutritional Snapshot
For those curious about what goes into these treats we’ve broken down the basic nutritional info for a single cookie based on a standard batch. Keep in mind that exact values may vary depending on specific ingredients or portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Protein | 2g |
Ingredients for Banana Split Cookies
Let’s dive into the heart of our Banana Split Cookie Recipe by gathering all the essential components. We’ve split the ingredients into two categories for clarity: the cookie base and the toppings that mimic the iconic banana split sundae.
Cookie Base Ingredients
For the soft and chewy foundation of our Banana Split Cookies, we’ll need the following items. Make sure to measure precisely for the best results.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed tightly)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium ripe banana (mashed finely)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for that melty chocolatey goodness)
Topping Ingredients
To recreate the nostalgic flavors of a banana split sundae, we top our cookies with vibrant and fruity elements. Gather these ingredients to bring the ice cream parlor magic to life.
- 1/2 cup dried pineapple chunks (chopped into small pieces)
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional for a nutty crunch)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (melted for drizzling)
- Sprinkles (optional for a festive touch)
Essential Tools and Equipment
When crafting our delectable Banana Split Cookies, having the right tools and equipment at hand ensures a smooth baking process and perfect results. We’re excited to guide you through the must-have items that will help bring this nostalgic treat to life in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the essentials that will make baking these cookies a breeze.
Mixing and Measuring Tools
To achieve the ideal texture and flavor balance in our Banana Split Cookie Recipe, precision and proper mixing are key. Equip your kitchen with these vital tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Grab a set of medium and large bowls for combining the wet and dry ingredients. We prefer stainless steel or glass for durability and easy cleaning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a set of dry measuring cups for flour and sugars and liquid measuring cups for vanilla extract or melted chocolate.
- Whisk and Spatula: A whisk helps blend the wet ingredients smoothly while a silicone spatula is perfect for folding in chocolate chips and banana chunks without overmixing.
- Electric Mixer: For creaming butter and sugars to a fluffy consistency, a hand mixer or stand mixer saves time and effort. This is essential for that soft cookie texture we love.
Baking Essentials
Baking our Banana Split Cookies requires tools that ensure even cooking and easy handling. Here’s what we rely on:
- Baking Sheets: Opt for two sturdy baking sheets to bake multiple batches at once. Line them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cooling Rack: Transferring cookies to a wire cooling rack after baking prevents sogginess and helps maintain that perfect chewy yet crisp texture.
- Oven Mitts: Protect your hands with a reliable pair of oven mitts when handling hot baking sheets. Safety first in our kitchen!
Decorating and Finishing Tools
To replicate the iconic look of a banana split sundae on our cookies, these tools help add those final festive touches:
- Piping Bag or Ziploc Bag: For drizzling melted white chocolate over the cookies, a small piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a tiny corner snipped off works wonders.
- Small Knife or Chopper: Use this to finely chop dried pineapple chunks or maraschino cherries for uniform topping distribution.
- Spoon or Scoop: A small spoon or cookie scoop ensures evenly sized dough balls which bake consistently and look uniform on the tray.
Quick Reference Table for Tools
To make things even easier, we’ve compiled a handy table of the essential tools and their primary uses in crafting our Banana Split Cookies.
| Tool | Primary Use | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients | Keeps wet and dry components organized |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient portions | Ensures balanced flavors and textures |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming butter and sugar | Achieves fluffy and light cookie dough |
| Baking Sheets | Baking cookies | Provides even heat distribution |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling cookies post-baking | Prevents sogginess and maintains texture |
| Piping Bag | Drizzling white chocolate | Adds a professional and decorative touch |
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into crafting our delectable Banana Split Cookies with step-by-step guidance. We’ll guide you through each stage to ensure your cookies capture the nostalgic charm of a classic banana split in every bite.
Prep the Cookie Dough
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup for our Banana Split Cookies.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl use an electric mixer to beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup packed brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Then mash 1 ripe banana (about ½ cup) and blend it in until fully combined. This adds that signature banana flavor to our cookies.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. This step brings the gooey chocolate element reminiscent of a classic sundae to our Banana Split Cookies.
Prepare the Toppings
- Chop the Fruits and Nuts: Dice ½ cup dried pineapple chunks into small pieces for a tropical punch. Halve 10-12 maraschino cherries and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. If using walnuts chop ¼ cup into small bits for a crunchy addition to our Banana Split Cookies.
- Melt White Chocolate: Place ½ cup white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals stirring after each until fully melted and smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or a small ziplock bag with a tiny corner snipped off for precise drizzling over our cookies.
- Set Up Sprinkles: Pour 2 tablespoons of colorful sprinkles into a small bowl for easy access during decorating. These add a festive flair that screams banana split nostalgia.
- Assemble Toppings Tray: Arrange all prepared toppings—pineapple, cherries, walnuts, melted white chocolate, and sprinkles—on a tray or small plates near your baking area. This setup ensures a seamless decorating process once our Banana Split Cookies are baked and cooled.
| Topping | Quantity | Preparation Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Pineapple Chunks | ½ cup | Dice into small pieces |
| Maraschino Cherries | 10-12 cherries | Halve and pat dry |
| Walnuts (optional) | ¼ cup | Chop into small bits |
| White Chocolate Chips | ½ cup | Melt for drizzling |
| Colorful Sprinkles | 2 tablespoons | Ready in a small bowl for decorating |
With our dough ready and toppings prepped we’re set to bake and decorate these irresistible Banana Split Cookies that promise a burst of sundae-inspired joy in every bite.
Baking Instructions
Let’s dive into the heart of creating our Banana Split Cookies with these detailed steps. We’ll guide you through baking and cooling to ensure every bite bursts with sundae-inspired joy.
Bake the Cookies
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking of our Banana Split Cookies.
- Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into 1.5-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Add Initial Toppings: Gently press a few semi-sweet chocolate chips and small pieces of dried pineapple chunks into the tops of each dough ball for that classic banana split vibe. Reserve the maraschino cherries and other toppings for post-baking decoration.
- Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking as we want that chewy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Remove one cookie to test if unsure. The center should look slightly underbaked as it will firm up while cooling. The aroma of banana and chocolate will fill your kitchen signaling they’re nearly ready.
Cool the Cookies
- Rest on the Sheet: Once baked, pull the baking sheets from the oven using your oven mitts. Let the Banana Split Cookies sit on the sheet for 5 minutes to set. This brief rest helps maintain their soft gooey texture.
- Transfer to Rack: Carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack using a spatula. Allow them to cool completely for about 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial as it prepares them for the final decorating touches.
- Savor the Anticipation: As they cool, you’ll notice the enticing blend of fruity banana and rich chocolate scents lingering. Resist the urge to dig in just yet. We’re setting the stage for the ultimate sundae-inspired finish with toppings like melted white chocolate and colorful sprinkles.
Assembly and Decoration
Let’s bring our Banana Split Cookies to life with vibrant toppings and dazzling final touches. This stage transforms our baked treats into a true homage to the classic banana split sundae with irresistible visual appeal and flavor.
Add Banana Split Toppings
Now that our cookies have cooled completely on the rack, it’s time to layer on the iconic banana split elements. Follow these steps to recreate that sundae magic:
- Place the Fruit Toppings: Gently press a few dried pineapple chunks and halved maraschino cherries onto the top of each cookie. Position them strategically to mimic the look of a sundae—think colorful and playful. These fruity bits add a chewy sweetness that bursts with tropical and tangy notes.
- Sprinkle Optional Nuts: If you’re using walnuts, sprinkle a small pinch of finely chopped pieces over each cookie. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft cookie base and mimics the classic sundae texture.
- Secure the Toppings: Ensure the toppings are slightly pressed into the cookie surface so they stay in place. Avoid overloading to maintain the cookie’s structure—we want every bite to be balanced.
These toppings not only elevate the visual charm but also pack each cookie with the nostalgic flavors of a banana split. Imagine the sweet-tart cherries and juicy pineapple melding with the rich chocolate chips already baked in!
Final Touches
Let’s add the finishing flair to our Banana Split Cookies and make them truly Instagram-worthy. These final steps will seal the deal with a decadent drizzle and festive sparkle:
- Drizzle with White Chocolate: Using a piping bag or a small spoon, drizzle melted white chocolate over each cookie in a zigzag pattern. This creamy addition mimics the whipped cream of a traditional sundae and adds a velvety sweetness that ties all the flavors together. Ensure the chocolate is melted to a smooth consistency for an even drizzle—about 30 seconds in the microwave with occasional stirring should do the trick.
- Add Colorful Sprinkles: While the white chocolate is still wet, scatter a pinch of colorful sprinkles over the top. Opt for bright shades or themed sprinkles to match the occasion—think red and green for holidays or pastel hues for spring. This step adds a festive pop that screams celebration.
- Let Set: Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes or until the white chocolate hardens. This ensures the toppings and drizzle stay intact when you serve or store them.
These final touches transform our cookies into a showstopping dessert. The glossy white chocolate drizzle and vibrant sprinkles create a feast for the eyes while enhancing the sundae-inspired joy in every bite.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
We’re thrilled to share our expert advice on preparing and storing your Banana Split Cookies to keep them as fresh and delightful as the day they were baked. Whether you’re planning ahead for a party or simply want to savor these treats over time, these tips will ensure your cookies maintain their irresistible soft texture and sundae-inspired flavors. Let’s dive into the best practices for making ahead and storing these nostalgic goodies.
Preparing in Advance
Save time and enjoy stress-free baking by preparing components of our Banana Split Cookie Recipe ahead of time. Follow these steps to get a head start:
- Dough Preparation: Mix the cookie dough up to 48 hours in advance. After preparing the dough with the ripe banana and semi-sweet chocolate chips, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This helps the flavors meld together for an even tastier result.
- Toppings Setup: Chop the dried pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries a day ahead. Store them in separate small airtight containers at room temperature to keep them fresh. If using walnuts, chop and store them similarly to avoid any sogginess.
- White Chocolate Prep: Melt the white chocolate for drizzling a few hours before baking if you prefer. Keep it in a heat-safe bowl covered with plastic wrap. Reheat gently in the microwave or over a double boiler when ready to decorate.
By prepping these elements, you can assemble and bake your Banana Split Cookies quickly, ensuring they’re fresh for any occasion.
Storage Guidelines
To preserve the gooey chocolate and fruity banana flavors of your cookies, proper storage is key. Here’s how we keep ours in top shape:
- Room Temperature Storage: Store fully assembled and decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain the integrity of the colorful sprinkles and white chocolate drizzle. This method keeps the cookies soft and ready to enjoy.
- Refrigeration: If you’ve added maraschino cherries or other moist toppings, consider storing the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to revive their chewy texture.
- Freezing for Longevity: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies without toppings. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the fruit toppings and white chocolate drizzle just before serving to maintain their vibrant appeal.
Quick Storage Reference Table
We’ve compiled a handy table to summarize the storage options for your Banana Split Cookies. Use this as a quick guide to ensure they stay as delicious as when they came out of the oven.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Fully decorated cookies | Use airtight container with parchment layers |
| Refrigeration | Up to 5 days | Cookies with moist toppings | Allow to warm slightly before serving |
| Freezing (without toppings) | Up to 2 months | Long-term storage | Freeze individually first; decorate after thawing |
With these make-ahead and storage tips, we ensure our Banana Split Cookies are always ready to impress. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging in a sweet treat over weeks, these strategies keep the ice cream parlor nostalgia alive in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Dive into the delightful world of Banana Split Cookies with us as we share the best ways to serve these sundae-inspired treats. Our goal is to ensure that every bite of these soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies brings the nostalgic joy of a classic banana split to your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet treat at home, we’ve got creative and practical ideas to elevate your Banana Split Cookie experience.
Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion
Let’s make every moment special with our Banana Split Cookies by pairing them with complementary flavors and drinks. Imagine serving these fruity and chocolatey cookies at a summer gathering with a tall glass of iced vanilla latte or a refreshing strawberry milkshake to echo the sundae vibes. For a cozy night in, pair them with a warm mug of hot chocolate—the melted chocolate chips in the cookies blend perfectly with the rich cocoa. Hosting a kids’ party? Set up a mini ice cream bar alongside the cookies, offering scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream to mimic the full banana split experience. These pairings not only enhance the gooey and fruity flavors but also make your dessert spread unforgettable.
Presentation Ideas to Impress
Presentation is key when serving our Banana Split Cookies. Stack them on a vibrant dessert platter with a sprinkle of extra colorful sprinkles around the edges for a festive touch. For a more elegant display, place each cookie on a small dessert plate with a drizzle of melted white chocolate and a single maraschino cherry on top—mimicking the classic sundae look. Hosting a themed event? Arrange the cookies in a banana-shaped dish to play up the banana split theme and watch your guests’ eyes light up. As we always say, “A beautiful presentation makes every bite taste even sweeter!” These simple yet stunning ideas ensure your Banana Split Cookies steal the show.
Serving Sizes and Portions
To help you plan for any gathering, we’ve put together a quick guide on serving sizes for our Banana Split Cookies. These portions are based on a standard batch yielding about 24 cookies, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this delightful treat.
| Occasion | Number of Guests | Suggested Cookies per Person | Total Cookies Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Family Gathering | 4-6 | 2-3 | 8-18 |
| Kids’ Birthday Party | 10-12 | 1-2 | 10-24 |
| Large Party or Event | 20-25 | 1-2 | 20-50 |
Adjust the quantities based on your crowd, and remember that these rich and indulgent cookies often satisfy with just one or two per person due to their bold flavors. Keep extras handy for seconds—trust us, they’ll be requested!
Special Touches for Dietary Needs
We want everyone to enjoy our Banana Split Cookies, so consider a few tweaks for dietary preferences. For gluten-free guests, swap the all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free blend and double-check your toppings for hidden gluten. If nuts are a concern, simply skip the walnuts and focus on the fruity toppings like dried pineapple and maraschino cherries. For a vegan twist, use plant-based butter, a flax egg, and vegan chocolate chips—the banana split essence remains just as vibrant. These small adjustments ensure that every bite of our Banana Split Cookies brings joy to all your guests, no matter their needs.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled to share this Banana Split Cookie recipe with you! It’s a fantastic way to bring a nostalgic dessert into your kitchen with a fun twist.
These cookies are sure to become a favorite for any sweet tooth. We can’t wait for you to try them and see the smiles they bring!
Drop us a comment below with your baking experiences or any creative spins you add. Let’s keep the sundae-inspired joy alive!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Banana Split Cookies unique?
Banana Split Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of a classic banana split sundae with the soft, chewy texture of freshly baked cookies. Featuring banana, chocolate chips, and fruity toppings like dried pineapple and maraschino cherries, they offer a delightful fusion of tastes and textures. This portable treat captures the essence of an ice cream parlor experience, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
What ingredients are needed for Banana Split Cookies?
You’ll need unsalted butter, granulated and brown sugar, an egg, vanilla extract, a ripe banana, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and semi-sweet chocolate chips for the base. Toppings include dried pineapple chunks, maraschino cherries, optional walnuts, melted white chocolate for drizzling, and sprinkles to mimic the classic sundae look and flavor.
What tools are essential for baking Banana Split Cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, and an electric mixer for the dough. Baking sheets, a cooling rack, and oven mitts are crucial for baking. For decorating, a piping bag for white chocolate drizzling and a small knife for chopping toppings are recommended to achieve perfect results.
How do I store Banana Split Cookies to keep them fresh?
Store Banana Split Cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re in a sealed container or freezer bag to maintain their soft texture and flavors.
Can Banana Split Cookies be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Yes, Banana Split Cookies can be adapted! Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, omit nuts for a nut-free option, or substitute butter and egg with vegan alternatives like plant-based butter and a flax egg for a vegan treat. Adjust toppings to suit specific needs.
How long does it take to bake Banana Split Cookies?
Baking Banana Split Cookies typically takes about 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Allow extra time for prepping the dough and decorating with toppings like fruit, white chocolate drizzle, and sprinkles. Overall, expect around 30-45 minutes from start to finish for a batch.
What are some serving suggestions for Banana Split Cookies?
Serve Banana Split Cookies with iced vanilla lattes or hot chocolate for a delightful pairing. Present them on a themed platter for parties or as a thoughtful gift in decorative boxes. Adjust serving sizes based on the occasion—about 1-2 cookies per person for casual gatherings.
Can I prepare Banana Split Cookies in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the cookie dough and chop toppings in advance, storing the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days or freezing it for up to a month. Bake when ready, and add fresh toppings and drizzles just before serving for the best results.