As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas filled the air, instantly transporting me to carefree summer picnics where desserts were provably the highlight. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a nostalgic classic: Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies with Whipped Vanilla Topping. These delightful treats combine the comforting flavors of creamy banana pudding with chunks of white chocolate and the satisfying crunch of Nilla Wafers. What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity and the joy it brings to gatherings; you won’t believe how quickly they disappear! Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next BBQ or seeking a wholesome treat to brighten your afternoon, these cookies are sure to deliver on both taste and texture. Curious to dive into the heavenly layers of banana goodness? Let’s get baking! Why Are These Banana Pudding Cookies Special? Simplicity: The recipe is easy enough for anyone to whip up, perfect for both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike. Nostalgic Flavor: Packed with banana goodness and creamy white chocolate, these cookies bring back the sweetest childhood memories. Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for parties, BBQs, or just as a delectable treat in lunchboxes, they’re sure to vanish fast! Unique Topping: The whipped vanilla pudding adds a luscious layer that makes these cookies stand out from the rest. Versatile: Feel free to customize with dark chocolate chips or even nuts for added crunch, making it your own. Treat yourself to a delightful sweet experience with these Banana Pudding Cookies; you’ll love how they bring joy to every bite! Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients For the Cookies All-purpose flour – Provides structure and chewiness; remember to spoon and level for the best result. Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent that helps cookies rise. Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the cookies. Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness; make sure it’s melted and cooled to room temperature. White granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps maintain moisture. Brown sugar – Brings a subtle molasses flavor, contributing to a chewier texture. Ripe bananas – The star of these cookies; mash them to incorporate their sweetness and moisture. Egg yolk – Provides richness; let it come to room temperature for better emulsification. Pure vanilla extract – Adds aromatic flavor; always opt for pure for the best taste. Nilla Wafer crumbs – Introduces crunch and flavor; feel free to adjust the size of the crumbs. White chocolate chips – Adds creaminess and sweet bursts throughout the cookie. For the Whipped Topping Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix – Used to create a creamy, sweet layer that complements the cookies beautifully. Milk – A hydrating agent essential for mixing with the pudding. Heavy cream – Needed for whipping up into a fluffy topping. For Decoration Nilla Wafers (for decoration) – These add a visual appeal and extra crunch as a topping. Dive into the delightful world of Banana Pudding Cookies; with these fabulous ingredients, your kitchen will soon be filled with sweet, irresistible scents! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Cookies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your Banana Pudding Cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment to set yourself up for a smooth baking process. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is the backbone of your Banana Pudding Cookies, providing structure and flavor. Set this dry mixture aside to allow the baking soda to activate and work its magic later on. Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted and cooled unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar. Using a mixer, beat these ingredients on high for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration creates a lighter cookie, enhancing the overall texture of your delightful treats. Step 4: Add Bananas and Vanilla With the mixer on medium speed, add 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 large egg yolk to the sugar-butter mixture. Mix until fully combined and smooth, allowing the sweet banana flavor to infuse throughout your cookie dough. The bananas will lend moisture and sweetness to the cookies. Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. It should be thick and slightly sticky, ready to embrace the Nilla Wafer goodness. This is where the classic flavor of Banana Pudding Cookies truly starts to shine. Step 6: Fold in Extras Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed Nilla Wafer crumbs and 1 cup of white chocolate chips using a spatula. This will create delightful pockets of sweetness throughout each cookie. The combination of creamy white chocolate and the crunch from the wafers embodies the essence of banana pudding in every bite. Step 7: Shape the Cookies Allow the cookie dough to rest for about 10 minutes. Then, using a 2 oz. cookie scoop, place generous dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread a bit while baking, so give them room to breathe as they bake to golden perfection. Step 8: Bake Until Golden Bake the Banana Pudding Cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect for that chewy texture. Once done, remove the sheets and let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Step 9: Prepare the Whipped Topping While the cookies are cooling, prepare the whipped topping. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 package of vanilla instant pudding mix with 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until smooth. This creamy layer will elevate your Banana Pudding Cookies, providing a luscious finish that your taste buds will thank you for. Step 10: Whip the Cream In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until just combined, creating a light and fluffy topping. The fluffy whipped topping balances the richness of the cookies, making each bite a delightful experience. Step 11: Assemble and Garnish Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a spoon to generously dollop the whipped vanilla topping onto each cookie. To finish, garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers for extra flavor and texture. These Banana Pudding Cookies are now ready to impress your family and friends—enjoy the smiles as they savor each bite! What to Serve with Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies? Transform your dessert experience into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that elevate the taste of your cookies. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a rich, creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies. The cold, smooth ice cream perfectly balances the warm cookies, making every bite indulgent. Chocolate Milkshake: The classic flavors of a chocolate milkshake echo the sweetness of banana, offering a nostalgic touch that complements every aspect of the dessert. This combination creates a delightful interplay of flavors and textures. Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries introduces a refreshing burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness. Their juicy pop contrasts the cookies’ chewy goodness, providing an exciting taste experience. Coffee: A hot cup of coffee or a cold brew is a great way to enhance the flavors of the cookies. The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the banana and white chocolate, creating a satisfying balance. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce over the cookies adds an extra touch of sweetness and richness. It not only makes the cookies visually stunning but also infuses each bite with luscious, gooey flavor. Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of cold milk is the quintessential companion to cookies. The milk washes down the sweetness perfectly while emphasizing the creamy elements of your banana pudding cookies. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side provides a light and airy addition that complements the cookies’ dense texture. It’s like icing on the cake, bringing an extra layer of indulgence. Nutty Granola Parfait: Layering granola with yogurt and banana pudding creates a delightful parfait that mirrors the flavors of the cookies. The crunchiness of the granola contrasted with creamy textures makes for a pleasing treat. Chocolate-Covered Bananas: For the truly indulgent, pair with chocolate-covered bananas! The chocolate enhances the flavors while providing crunch, creating a delicious homage to the banana theme of the cookies. Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Cookies Spoon Flour Properly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies. Compact flour can lead to the dough not spreading properly. Banana Ripeness Matters: Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results. Rest the Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to rest for 10 minutes before scooping helps improve the texture, creating chewier Banana Pudding Cookies. Oven Temperature Check: Always verify your oven’s temperature with a thermometer. An uneven temperature can lead to inconsistent baking results. Customization Elements: Feel free to experiment! Try using dark chocolate chips or adding nuts for personal twists while keeping the essence of Banana Pudding Cookies intact. Make Ahead Options These Banana Pudding Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything through Step 6, then covering it tightly and refrigerating. The whipped topping can also be made ahead; refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container to keep it fluffy. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheets, let them bake until golden, and top with the chilled whipped topping before serving. This way, your cookies will be just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy them with minimal effort! Banana Pudding Cookies Variations Feel free to make these Banana Pudding Cookies your own by experimenting with the following delightful variations! Dark Chocolate: Swap out white chocolate chips for dark chocolate ones for a deeper flavor profile. The richness of dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with sweet bananas! Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Nuts not only enhance the texture but also add a wholesome touch to every bite. Peanut Butter Twist: Incorporate a swirl of creamy peanut butter into the dough before baking for a nutty and creamy richness. It’s an unexpected twist that will surprise your taste buds! Pudding Flavor Change: Use butterscotch or banana cream instant pudding mix instead of vanilla for a unique twist on the whipped topping flavor. It’ll take your cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness! Coconut Flair: Add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a tropical vibe. The chewy coconut complements the banana beautifully, bringing a taste of paradise to your kitchen! Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor. These spices will elevate the sweetness of the bananas, making each cookie feel extra cozy. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream in the whipped topping for a dairy-free version. Enjoy a luscious topping that everyone will appreciate, even those with dietary restrictions! Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped topping for an added flair and decadence. This will not only enhance the presentation but also add an extra layer of richness! With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Whether you prefer the classic taste or want to shake things up, these suggestions will keep your baking adventures exciting. If you’re in the mood for more sweet temptations, check out Honey Cookies Chewy or indulge in the delightful[Brown Butter Cookies](https://cheatdayrecipe.com/brown-butter-chocolate-chip-cookies/). Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Cookies Airtight Container: Store your Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture. Refrigerator: For extended freshness, these cookies can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days; just make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: To enjoy your cookies later, freeze the baked cookies for up to 30 days. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Banana Pudding Cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving. Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe bananas for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for bananas that have plenty of brown spots or are mostly brown; these are the sweetest. Overripe bananas will mash easily and incorporate wonderfully into your cookie dough, leaving you with that rich banana flavor we all adore. What’s the best way to store Banana Pudding Cookies? Very! Store your Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep that delightful chewiness. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out. Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cookies? Absolutely! To freeze, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch, and freeze until solid. Then transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for a perfect treat. What if my cookies turn out too dry? No worries! If you find your Banana Pudding Cookies dry, this might be due to too much flour being packed in. Always spoon and level flour for accuracy. If this happens, you can also add a splash of milk to the dough before baking to help retain moisture. Are these cookies safe for dogs? Definitely not! While bananas are okay in moderation for dogs, these cookies contain ingredients like sugar and chocolate that should be avoided. Always keep human treats out of reach of pets to ensure their safety. Can I substitute ingredients in Banana Pudding Cookies? Very much so! If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can swap the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips or even incorporate nuts for extra crunch. Just remember, any substitution can slightly alter the final texture and taste, so don’t hesitate to experiment! Irresistibly Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies for Dessert Joy These Banana Pudding Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of creamy banana pudding with white chocolate and crunchy Nilla Wafers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 37 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies2 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level for best result.1 teaspoon baking soda Acts as a leavening agent.1 pinch salt Enhances flavor.½ cup unsalted butter Melted and cooled to room temperature.½ cup white granulated sugar Sweetens the cookies.½ cup brown sugar Brings a subtle molasses flavor.1 cup ripe bananas Mashed for sweetness and moisture.1 large egg yolk Let come to room temperature.1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Opt for pure for best taste.1 cup Nilla Wafer crumbs1 cup white chocolate chipsFor the Whipped Topping1 package vanilla instant pudding mix1 cup milk1 cup heavy cream Needed for whipping.For Decorationas needed Nilla Wafers For decoration. Equipment ovenMixing BowlsMixerBaking Sheetsparchment papercookie scoop Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on high for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add mashed ripe bananas, vanilla extract, and egg yolk to the mixture. Mix until fully combined and smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Gently fold in Nilla Wafer crumbs and white chocolate chips. Rest the cookie dough for about 10 minutes. Scoop dollops of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Remove and cool on the pan for 5 minutes. Prepare the whipped topping by combining vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Whip heavy cream in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold into the pudding mixture until just combined. Dollop the whipped vanilla topping onto cooled cookies and garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg NotesUse very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
