Chocolate Banana Drops blend the comforting richness of semi-sweet chocolate with the natural sweetness and moisture of mashed bananas. Dating back to at least 1957, this recipe offers a nostalgic flavor and cake-like texture that sets it apart from traditional cookies. The combination of creamy shortening, ripe bananas, and vanilla creates a soft bite, while melted chocolate chips lend depth and indulgence. These cookies are a cozy favorite perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or after-school treats.
Ingredients
- 2¼ cups sifted flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅔ cup soft shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate pieces (melted)
- 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Shortening and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Chocolate
- Mix in the melted semi-sweet chocolate until well blended.
Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients and Bananas
- Add the dry ingredients alternately with mashed bananas, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Drop Dough
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until set and lightly browned at edges. Cool on wire racks.
Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture
- Chop the chocolate pieces smaller for more even distribution
- Substitute butter for part of the shortening for a richer flavor
- Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice note
- Toast the chocolate lightly before folding in for deeper flavor
- Chill dough briefly if drops spread too much during baking
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup
- These freeze well once baked
- Try walnuts or pecans for added texture
- Excellent served slightly warm
Nutrition
Calories: 148kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 41mgPotassium: 88mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 22IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg
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