These Banana Cranberry Walnut Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet bananas, crunchy walnuts, and tangy cranberries. They are perfect for a healthy snack or a quick breakfast treat. The hint of vanillin adds a subtle aroma that makes these cookies irresistible.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 bananas
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanillin
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Optional: Lavender, green tea, rose petals, and blackberries for a unique twist
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (380°F).
- Prepare Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the chopped walnuts, vanillin, and dried cranberries. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon, drop dollops of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shaping them into cookies.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown and firm.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Optional Tea Infusion
- Prepare Tea: While the cookies are baking, prepare a pot of hot water.
- Add Flavorings: Add lavender, green tea, rose petals, and blackberries to the hot water.
- Steep: Let the mixture steep for about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the cookies with the freshly brewed tea for a delightful and aromatic experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these cookies with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
- They make a great on-the-go snack or a sweet addition to your breakfast.
Cooking Tips
- For a stronger flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the mixture.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the mix.
Nutritional Benefits
- Bananas: Rich in potassium and vitamins.
- Walnuts: Good source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
- Cranberries: High in vitamin C and dietary fiber.
Dietary Information
- These cookies are vegetarian and can be made vegan by substituting honey with a vegan sweetener if used.
Storage Tips
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Healthy and nutritious snack option.
- Perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors with a hint of tartness from the cranberries.
Conclusion
These Banana Cranberry Walnut Cookies are a wholesome treat that combines delicious flavors with health benefits. They are easy to make and perfect for any time of the day. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a cup of aromatic tea for a truly delightful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts? Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts.
2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries? Fresh cranberries can be used, but the texture and sweetness will differ. Dried cranberries are sweeter and chewier, while fresh cranberries are more tart and have more moisture.
3. Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can freeze the cookies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. How can I make these cookies gluten-free? To make these cookies gluten-free, ensure that the vanillin and any optional ingredients used are gluten-free. The main ingredients (bananas, walnuts, cranberries) are naturally gluten-free.
5. Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies? Yes, adding chocolate chips is a great idea for an extra touch of sweetness. Just mix them in with the other ingredients before baking.
6. Can I use a different sweetener instead of vanillin? Vanillin is for flavor, not sweetness. If you prefer, you can use vanilla extract instead. For added sweetness, you can use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup.
7. What is the best way to mash the bananas? Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the bananas until smooth. You can also use a blender for a smoother consistency.
8. Can I add oats to this recipe? Yes, adding oats can provide additional texture and nutritional benefits. You can add up to 1/2 cup of rolled oats to the mixture.
Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious Banana Cranberry Walnut Cookies!