Cookies with nuts, bananas, and chocolate

Cookies with Nuts, Bananas, and Chocolate - A Crunchy Indulgence

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 24

Welcome to the delightful world of cookies with nuts, bananas, and chocolate! These cookies are a true treat for the taste buds, perfectly combining the sweetness of dried bananas with the crunchiness of nuts and decadent chocolate. Plus, they are easy to make and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. So, let’s start this culinary adventure!

A Brief History of Cookies

Cookies have a long and fascinating history, with origins that date back to ancient times. In the past, these delicacies were made to be preserved for long journeys, and recipes have evolved over the years, adapting to available ingredients and local tastes. Today, cookies are a symbol of comfort and joy in many cultures, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings.

Necessary Ingredients

To prepare these delicious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

- 130 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 120 g brown sugar
- 200 g whole wheat flour
- 100 g nuts (lightly toasted)
- 100 g dried bananas (chopped into small pieces)
- 50 g chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

Useful Tips about Ingredients

- Nuts: Before using them, lightly toast them in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 180°C until they become golden and release a pleasant aroma. This step will enhance the flavor and add a crunchy texture to the cookies. Save 15 whole nuts for decoration.
- Dried Bananas: If you want a more intense flavor, you can use naturally flavored dehydrated bananas, but be cautious of added sugars. Alternatively, you can opt for sugar-free dehydrated bananas.
- Chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate for a rich taste. If you want a healthier option, go for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.

Preparing the Cookies

1. Toasting the Nuts: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the nuts on a baking tray and toast them for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden. Let them cool, then remove their skins. Chop them finely, saving 15 whole nuts for decoration.

2. Preparing the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, vanilla sugar, baking soda, baking powder, chopped nuts, dried bananas, and chocolate. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

3. Mixing the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and continue mixing until well incorporated.

4. Combining the Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until you achieve a homogeneous, slightly soft composition. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This step is essential for achieving crunchier cookies.

5. Shaping the Cookies: Preheat the oven again to 180°C. Place a sheet of baking paper on a tray. Using a teaspoon, take portions of dough and place them on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between them as they will spread during baking. On top of each mound, place half a walnut or a slice of banana.

6. Baking: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are golden and crispy around the edges. Let them cool on a cooling rack.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are wonderful served as they are, but you can accompany them with a cup of hot tea or a mug of aromatic coffee. They also make an ideal snack for a lazy afternoon.

Possible Variations

- Adding Dried Fruits: You can experiment and add other dried fruits, such as raisins or dried apricots, to diversify the flavors.
- Coconut Cookies: If you love coconut, try adding shredded coconut to the dry ingredients mixture for a tropical taste.
- White or Milk Chocolate: For a sweeter option, try using white or milk chocolate.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies with nuts, bananas, and chocolate are not only delicious but also nutritious. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, helping to maintain heart health. Dried bananas provide a dose of potassium and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, whole wheat flour adds fiber, which aids digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can use almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts, depending on personal preferences.

2. How can I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crunchy. They can last up to a week.

3. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! These cookies can be easily frozen. Place them in an airtight container and freeze. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to prepare these delicious cookies with nuts, bananas, and chocolate. Enjoy the enticing flavors and every crunchy bite! Bon appétit!