Name: Irresistible Banana Pudding Cookies Your Family Will Adore
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas (Use overripe for richer flavor); 1/2 cup butter (Can be partially substituted with coconut oil); 1 cup brown sugar (Reduces for crisper cookies); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for best taste); 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (Add cornstarch if omitting pudding mix); 1 pkg instant pudding mix (Optional for texture); 1 cup vanilla wafers (Opt for gluten-free if needed); 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (Optional, can use milk or dark chocolate)

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As the warm, inviting aroma of baking cookies fills the air, who would resist the temptation to sneak a bite? I can almost hear the cheerful chatter around the kitchen as you gather your loved ones to enjoy these Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies with Vanilla Wafer Crunch. Combining the comforting essence of classic banana pudding with a delightful cookie twist, this recipe is an easy go-to for any occasion. Perfect for quick prep and adaptable to fit gluten-free diets, these treats are sure to become a family favorite. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, they’re guaranteed to satisfy those banana cravings without the fuss of a full dessert. Ready to whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get started!

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Why Are Banana Pudding Cookies So Irresistible?

Comforting, Unique Flavor: These cookies combine the nostalgic taste of classic banana pudding with a chewy cookie texture that’s simply irresistible.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious batch ready in no time, perfect for busy days!

Gluten-Free Options: Easily tweak the recipe for gluten-free diets, so everyone can join in on the fun.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for family gatherings, these cookies will have friends and family lining up for seconds.

Versatile Mix-Ins: Feel free to customize with chocolate chips or nuts, making every batch uniquely yours. Enjoy them warm, just like with Homemade Samoas Cookies for an extra comforting experience!

Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Ripe Bananas – Adds moisture and natural sweetness; use extra overripe ones for a richer flavor.
Butter – Provides richness; can be partially substituted with coconut oil for a lighter option.
Brown Sugar – Contributes to chewiness and deep flavor; reducing it leads to crisper cookies.
Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and enhances cookie texture.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; always use pure vanilla for the best taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure; if omitting pudding mix, use 1 3/4 cups total with cornstarch added for texture.
Instant Pudding Mix – Not essential but adds the delightful pudding-like texture.
Vanilla Wafers – Offers a crunchy twist; opt for gluten-free varieties if needed.
White Chocolate Chips (optional) – For an extra touch of sweetness; feel free to use milk or dark chocolate or leave them out.

Embrace the comforting flavors and textures of these delightful Banana Pudding Cookies, and get ready for a treat that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cookie right from the start. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically about 3-4 minutes. This creates a rich base for your Banana Pudding Cookies. Use an electric mixer for best results, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate Bananas and Vanilla
Next, add the ripe bananas and pure vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Blend these ingredients together until smooth, ensuring the bananas are fully mashed and evenly distributed. This step infuses your cookies with that wonderful banana flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant pudding mix, and baking soda. This mixture will help create the perfect texture for your cookies. Be sure to combine the ingredients well, so the leavening agent is evenly spread throughout the flour.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to come together without any dry pockets or lumps. The dough will begin to form a cohesive texture that is ready for add-ins.

Step 6: Fold in Add-ins
Now, gently fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and any optional white chocolate chips. The wafers add a delightful crunch that elevates your Banana Pudding Cookies. Make sure the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Scoop Dough
Using a medium cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each scoop. This allows the cookies to spread while baking. You should aim for an even size to ensure uniform baking and presentation.

Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; the edges should appear set while the centers may look slightly underbaked. This will give you that soft, chewy texture you desire in Banana Pudding Cookies.

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This resting time is crucial for maintaining their chewiness. Then, transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely, allowing their flavors to deepen even further.

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What to Serve with Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies with Vanilla Wafer Crunch

Indulge in a delightful dining experience that elevates your sweet treats into a full meal adventure.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that provides a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, creating a comforting combine of flavors.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a tart freshness that balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite feel light and delightful.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the cookies’ banana richness and engaging all the senses.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the cookies’ sweetness beautifully, while offering those cozy, comforting vibes we crave in the afternoon.
Banana Smoothie: Blend up a quick banana smoothie for a healthy, fruity addition that echoes the cookie’s flavors, perfect for a brunch setting.
Chocolate Milk: Creamy, sweet chocolate milk makes for a nostalgic drink choice that pairs perfectly with a crunchy vanilla wafer texture.

Enjoy experimenting with these pairings to create the ultimate experience that’s sure to please both young and old!

Banana Pudding Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Inviting flavors and textures await as you personalize your Banana Pudding Cookies!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for everyone to enjoy.
Coconut Oil: Replace butter with coconut oil for a lighter, dairy-free twist that adds a hint of tropical flavor.
Nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that complements the chewy cookie.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice that enhances the banana goodness.
Overripe Bananas: Use mashed bananas for a richer flavor; the more overripe, the sweeter your cookies will be! Adding extra ensures a moist texture.
Chocolate Switch: Swap white chocolate chips for semisweet or dark chocolate chips to satisfy any chocolate lover’s dream.
Butterscotch Bliss: Mix in butterscotch chips for a delightful twist that pairs beautifully with bananas.
Milk Swap: If bananas are still firm, replace them with 2 tablespoons of milk for moisture without the banana flavor.

Feel free to explore these variations, and consider serving them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a batch of Cinnamon Sugar Chips for an extra delightful treat!

Storage Tips for Banana Pudding Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week; just be sure to keep them sealed to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn.

Dough Storage: You can freeze the dough balls before baking for quick, fresh cookies anytime! Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once solid.

Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Cookies

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to ensure you don’t end up with too dry cookies.

• Ripeness Matters: Ideally, choose overripe bananas for the sweetest flavor and moisture. If they’re too firm, consider swapping with milk.

• Chill the Dough: If your dough feels sticky, chill it for 20-30 minutes. This helps with easier scooping and better cookie texture.

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies; take them out when edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked for the chewy texture.

• Customizable Mix-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts, but remember not to overwhelm the dough to maintain the signature Banana Pudding Cookies flavor.

• Storage Tips: For freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature; they stay good for 3-4 days. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Pudding Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. For optimal freshness, tightly wrap the dough balls in plastic wrap to avoid drying out. If you’re planning to enjoy them later, you can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the frozen dough directly into the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have fresh, chewy Banana Pudding Cookies anytime you want, with minimal effort!

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Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. If they’re overly ripe and almost black, they’re perfect! Feel free to add extra if you have them on hand—they’ll enhance the banana flavor even further.

How do I store leftover Banana Pudding Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate for up to a week—but be sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cookies for later?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container where they will last up to 2 months. To freeze the dough, scoop balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a bag for easy access—this way, you’ll have fresh cookies ready to bake anytime!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies turn out too thin, ensure you’ve measured flour accurately. You may also need to chill your dough for 20-30 minutes before baking; this can help the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Keep an eye on your baking time—taking them out while slightly underbaked also aids in keeping them chewy.

Are these cookies suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Very! To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This way, you won’t miss out on any deliciousness! Just double-check that all your other ingredients, such as vanilla wafers, are gluten-free as well.

Can I add other mix-ins besides vanilla wafers?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and you can customize it to fit your taste. Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or butterscotch chips to make each batch uniquely yours. Just remember to balance the flavors to keep the signature banana pudding experience intact!