1/2cupunsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/2cuppacked brown sugar
1/4cupgranulated sugar
1largeegg, at room temperature
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
1cupall-purpose flour, sifted
1/2teaspoonbaking soda
1/2teaspoonbaking powder
1/4teaspoonfine sea salt
1/2teaspoonground cinnamon
1/2cupchopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
1/2cupsemi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream together the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, mixing until all the ingredients are seamlessly blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Carefully fold in the optional chopped walnuts and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough without overworking it.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft to the touch.
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the texture to firm up further.
Notes
Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, pairs well with cold milk.