Cookies with bananas and coconut

Cookies with Bananas and Coconut

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 cookies

Banana and coconut cookies are a delicious and healthy choice for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. These cookies are not only easy to make but also full of flavor, with a natural banana taste complemented by the crunchy texture of coconut. Plus, using simple ingredients, you can customize them to your preferences.

A bit of history: Cookies were originally created as a way to preserve food, and today they are a symbol of comfort and joy in many cultures. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the exotic flavor of coconut, offering a unique tasting experience.

Ingredients:
- 2 large very ripe bananas
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of oil (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing)
- 500 g flour
- 10 g baking powder
- 75 g coconut
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt

Step by step for the most delicious cookies:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. It is essential that the bananas are very ripe, as they will add natural sweetness to the cookies. If you don't have very ripe bananas, you can leave them to ripen for a few days on a fruit stand.

2. Sift the flour: In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step helps eliminate lumps and ensures an even texture of the dough. So, don't skip this step!

3. Mash the bananas: In another bowl, mash the bananas using a fork or a blender until they become a smooth puree. It is very important that the bananas are not too firm; otherwise, they will not combine well with the other ingredients.

4. Combine the wet ingredients: Over the banana puree, add the eggs, the 3 tablespoons of oil, sugar, vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a whisk or a wooden spoon until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

5. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Add the sifted flour mixture to the bowl with the banana mixture. Also, add the coconut. Use a spatula to gently mix until there are no traces of flour. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tougher.

6. Form the cookies: Grease your hands with oil (one tablespoon is enough) and form small balls from the resulting dough, about the size of a walnut. Place them on a greased baking tray lined with flour or parchment paper, leaving about 3 cm between them to prevent sticking during baking. If you wish, you can gently press the balls to give them a flatter shape.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Once the oven is well heated, place the tray with cookies inside and let them bake for 15 minutes or until they are slightly browned on top. It is important to keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

8. Cooling: After the cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a cooling rack. It is tempting to enjoy them immediately, but it is recommended to wait a few minutes to allow them to set.

Serving suggestions: These cookies are excellent served warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days. You can accompany them with a cup of flavored tea or a fresh smoothie.

Possible variations:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- If you are looking for a gluten-free version, you can replace regular flour with gluten-free flour.
- You can also experiment with different flavors by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.

Calories and nutritional benefits: Each cookie contains approximately 90-100 calories, depending on size and exact ingredients used. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamins, while coconut provides healthy fats and fiber. These cookies are an excellent choice for those looking for a nutritious yet delicious snack.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, you can use frozen bananas, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- What do I do if the dough is too sticky? If you feel the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
- How can I store the cookies? The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.

These banana and coconut cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends or simply a healthy snack during the day. So, put on your apron and get ready to enjoy a sweet moment! Enjoy!