Banana Pudding Cookies are what happen when a classic Southern dessert decides to dress casually and show up as a cookie. They bring all the creamy, banana-filled nostalgia of banana pudding, yet they fit neatly in your hand, which feels like a small miracle. While banana pudding usually requires layers, chilling time, and a spoon, Banana Pudding Cookies cut straight to the good part. They are soft, sweet, and just a little playful.
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What Makes Banana Pudding Cookies So Special
What truly sets Banana Pudding Cookies apart is texture and flavor working together. The instant banana pudding mix keeps the cookies soft, while mashed ripe bananas add natural sweetness. Meanwhile, vanilla wafers folded into the dough give Banana Pudding Cookies that classic pudding vibe. Because the recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, beginners feel confident making Banana Pudding Cookies on the first try. Plus, Banana Pudding Cookies stay tender for days, which means they are great for make-ahead dessert plans. In short, Banana Pudding Cookies are sweet, nostalgic, and unbelievably easy, which explains why they keep showing up on dessert tables everywhere.
Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, softened | ½ cup | Creates soft, rich cookie texture |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Adds sweetness and structure |
| Large egg | 1 | Binds the cookie dough |
| Ripe banana, mashed | 1 medium | Provides banana flavor and moisture |
| Banana instant pudding mix | 3.4 oz box | Keeps Banana Pudding Cookies soft |
| All-purpose flour | 1¾ cups | Forms the cookie base |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | Helps cookies rise |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Vanilla wafers, crushed | 1 cup | Adds classic banana pudding taste |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
Smart Ingredient Swaps for Banana Pudding Cookies
If needed, you can swap butter for plant-based butter or use gluten-free flour blends without losing the soul of Banana Pudding Cookies. Just keep the pudding mix, because that’s the secret.
How to Make Banana Pudding Cookies Step by Step
Step 1: Preparing the Cookie Dough
First things first, let’s get the dough ready, because Banana Pudding Cookies always start with a good base. Begin by creaming the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture looks light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and mix well. After that, stir in the mashed banana and vanilla extract, which instantly gives the dough that cozy banana aroma. Next, sprinkle in the banana pudding mix and blend until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently. Finally, fold in the crushed vanilla wafers, making sure they are evenly spread throughout the dough.
Step 2: Baking Banana Pudding Cookies
Now that the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the Banana Pudding Cookies dough into tablespoon-sized balls and space them about two inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers stay soft.
Step 3: Cooling and Storing Banana Pudding Cookies
Once baked, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes before moving them to a cooling rack. This helps Banana Pudding Cookies set without drying out.
Serving and Storing Banana Pudding Cookies
Best Ways to Serve Banana Pudding Cookies
Banana Pudding Cookies are at their best when served slightly warm or at room temperature, because that’s when their soft centers really shine. While they are delicious on their own, serving Banana Pudding Cookies with a cold glass of milk makes the banana and vanilla flavors pop even more. For family gatherings, you can stack Banana Pudding Cookies on a simple plate and sprinkle a few crushed vanilla wafers on top for a homemade yet elegant touch. If you’re serving guests, pair Banana Pudding Cookies with fresh banana slices on the side, which adds freshness without overpowering the cookies. Because these cookies are portable, they also work well for lunchboxes, bake sales, or casual weekend treats.
How to Store Banana Pudding Cookies Properly
Storing Banana Pudding Cookies the right way keeps them soft for days. Once completely cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to four days. To maintain moisture, you can add a slice of bread to the container, which helps Banana Pudding Cookies stay tender. If you need longer storage, refrigerate them for up to one week, though room temperature is best for texture. For freezing, wrap Banana Pudding Cookies individually and freeze for up to two months.
Banana Pudding Cookies Variations
Classic Vanilla Banana Pudding Cookies
The classic version of Banana Pudding Cookies is the one that brings back memories with every bite. This variation stays close to the traditional banana pudding flavor that many Americans grew up loving. By using banana pudding mix and crushed vanilla wafers, these Banana Pudding Cookies deliver a soft, creamy taste without extra effort. If you want to enhance the vanilla notes, you can add an extra half teaspoon of vanilla extract. Because this version is simple and balanced, it works well for family gatherings, school events, or casual desserts. Also, classic Banana Pudding Cookies pair beautifully with milk or hot tea, making them a comforting anytime treat.
Chocolate Chip Banana Pudding Cookies
If you want something slightly richer, chocolate chip Banana Pudding Cookies are a crowd-pleaser. Simply fold ¾ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough before baking. The chocolate melts gently into the cookie, adding depth without overpowering the banana flavor. Because banana and chocolate naturally complement each other, this variation feels familiar yet exciting. These Banana Pudding Cookies are especially popular with kids and teens. For best results, use regular chocolate chips rather than jumbo ones, since they distribute evenly.
Print
Banana Pudding Cookies
- Total Time: 27 mins
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
Description
Soft, sweet, and nostalgic Banana Pudding Cookies made with simple ingredients. Perfect for snacks, desserts, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- 3.4 oz banana instant pudding mix
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, mashed banana, and vanilla extract. Mix in banana pudding mix.
- Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt separately; add to wet mixture. Fold in crushed vanilla wafers.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are soft.
- Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
- Chilling dough 20 minutes helps cookies hold shape.
- Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
- Variations: Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
FAQs About Banana Pudding Cookies
Can I Make Banana Pudding Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough and bake as usual. This actually helps Banana Pudding Cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.
Do Banana Pudding Cookies Freeze Well?
Absolutely. Once baked and fully cooled, wrap Banana Pudding Cookies individually or place them in an airtight freezer-safe container. They can stay in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for soft, delicious cookies.
Can I Use Overripe Bananas?
Yes, overripe bananas are perfect for Banana Pudding Cookies. They’re sweeter and mash easily, giving your cookies extra banana flavor without added sugar.
Are Banana Pudding Cookies Gluten-Free?
You can make them gluten-free by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure your pudding mix and vanilla wafers are gluten-free as well. The cookies will stay soft and tasty.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Mix-ins?
Yes, feel free to add chopped walnuts, pecans, or even white chocolate chips. Keep in mind that additional mix-ins may slightly change the texture of your Banana Pudding Cookies.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, sweet, and nostalgic flavors that make any kitchen feel cozy. With simple pantry ingredients, a little patience, and a few baking tips, anyone can create these comforting treats. Whether you stick to the classic vanilla version or try chocolate chips, Banana Pudding Cookies bring smiles and a touch of Southern charm to every bite. Perfect for snacks, family gatherings, or lunchboxes, these cookies are easy to make, easy to love, and impossible to resist.