Gourmet Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies Topped with Cherry and Peanuts

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that’s equal parts indulgent, unique, and downright irresistible, you’ve come to the right place. These Gourmet Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies Topped with Cherry and Peanuts are a game-changer. Imagine the perfect blend of gooey chocolate chips, sweet banana, tart cherries, and crunchy peanuts—all in one bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to impress. Let’s dive in and discover why these cookies deserve a spot in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies aren’t your average chocolate chip cookies. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

• Unique Flavor Combination: The marriage of banana, chocolate, cherry, and peanuts creates a symphony of flavors that’s both familiar and exciting.

• Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy on the inside with a slight crunch from the peanuts, these cookies are texture heaven.

• Easy to Make: No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients—just straightforward baking with gourmet results.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or solo treat, these cookies are guaranteed to win hearts.

Tools You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s make sure you have the right tools on hand. Here are five essentials to make this recipe a breeze:

1. Stand Mixer: A stand mixer like the KitchenAid Artisan Series makes creaming butter and sugar effortless.

2. Baking Sheets: Non-stick baking sheets like these Nordic Ware ensure even baking and easy cleanup.

3. Silicone Baking Mat: For perfectly baked cookies every time, try this Silpat Non-Stick Baking Mat.

4. Cookie Scoop: A medium-sized cookie scoop like this OXO Good Grips ensures uniform cookies.

5. Cooling Rack: Let your cookies cool evenly with this Wilton Cooling Rack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these gourmet cookies. I’ve included some of my favorite brand recommendations for the best results:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Kerrygold)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (Nielsen-Massey)

• 1 ripe banana, mashed

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur Flour)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Ghirardelli)

• 1/2 cup dried cherries

• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Bake Time: 10-12 minutes | Total Time: 25-30 minutes

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with a silicone mat or parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In your stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and mashed banana.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, dried cherries, and chopped peanuts.

6. Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

7. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a better texture.

2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.

3. Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading.

4. Quality Ingredients Matter: Splurge on high-quality chocolate and vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Variations to Try

1. Nut-Free Version: Swap the peanuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.

2. White Chocolate Twist: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend like Bob’s Red Mill to make this recipe gluten-free.

Why These Cookies Stand Out

What sets these cookies apart is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The banana adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the cherries provide a tangy contrast. The peanuts add a satisfying crunch, and the chocolate chips tie everything together. It’s a gourmet twist on a classic cookie that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

• Storing: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

• Serving: These cookies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Final Thoughts

These Gourmet Chocolate Chip Banana Cookies Topped with Cherry and Peanuts are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. With their unique flavor profile and foolproof recipe, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking routine. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s bake something extraordinary.

Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media—I’d love to see how yours turn out!

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