Name: Irresistibly Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 package Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (can be swapped with chocolate pudding); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (to enhance sweetness); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 cup Nilla Wafer Cookies (crushed); 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (or granulated sugar); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 large Ripe Banana (mashed); 1 large Egg Yolk (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure extract recommended); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (can swap with dark or semi-sweet)

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to sunny afternoons spent with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Banana Pudding Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that combines the comforting taste of ripe bananas and creamy vanilla pudding in cookie form. These treats are not only kid-friendly, making them perfect for family gatherings, but they’re also a quick and simple indulgence you can whip up any time the craving strikes. With their crisp edges and chewy centers, each bite is a nostalgic reminder of warm, happy moments. Ready to take a trip down memory lane with me? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Are Banana Pudding Cookies So Special?

Nostalgic Comfort: These cookies evoke memories of the classic banana pudding, bringing warmth to any gathering.
Kid-Friendly Delight: Perfect for kids and adults alike, they make for a fun baking project that everyone can enjoy.
Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and an easy step-by-step process, you can have warm cookies ready in no time—ideal for unexpected guests!
Deliciously Chewy Texture: They combine a crispy outer layer with a soft, chewy center, creating an irresistible mouthfeel that pairs perfectly with a glass of cold milk or even a cup of tea.
Versatile Sweetness: Feel free to swap out white chocolate chips for dark or even try adding some chopped nuts for an extra crunch, just like you might do when baking Chocolate Oat Cookies or Banana Oatmeal Pancakes!
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at parties, potlucks, or simply as an after-school snack, you’ll find these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.

Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component for the cookies; can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Adds creaminess and enhanced vanilla flavor; feel free to swap with chocolate pudding for a fun alternative!
• Kosher Salt – A pinch enhances sweetness and balances the overall flavor profile.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise for a light, airy texture; baking powder could be used for a similar effect.
• Baking Powder – A vital leavening agent to create those delightful, lighter cookie textures.
• Nilla Wafer Cookies – Crushed for that classic banana pudding flavor; any buttery cookie can work as a substitute.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; granulated sugar can be used if you don’t have this on hand.
• Granulated Sugar – Complements the lighter sugars for overall sweetness.
• Ripe Banana – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; the riper, the better for flavor!
• Large Egg Yolk – Adds richness and proper texture; make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; stick to pure extract for the best taste experience.
• White Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and creaminess; can be swapped with dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a change.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Deliciously Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant vanilla pudding mix, kosher salt, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined. This mixture forms the foundation of your Banana Pudding Cookies, ensuring they rise perfectly during baking. Set this aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Crush Nilla Wafers
Place the Nilla wafer cookies into a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or your hands until they resemble coarse crumbs. This step adds that nostalgic banana pudding flavor to your cookies. Ensure there are some larger bits for delightful texture in your finished cookies, and keep the bag closed to minimize mess.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened unsalted butter with both sugars on medium speed until creamy and light, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the mashed ripe banana, large egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This flavorful blend is the heart of your Banana Pudding Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Once incorporated, gently fold in the crushed Nilla wafers and white chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, portion the dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scoop. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without touching each other while baking. The dough should look slightly mounded on the sheets, creating a perfect shape for your Banana Pudding Cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but still soft. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake; they will firm up as they cool. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Cookies

• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for optimal blending and a smooth cookie dough.

• Prevent Tough Cookies: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour; it leads to tough cookies and loss of that delightful chewiness.

• Riper Bananas: Use the ripest bananas you can find for the best flavor and moisture in your Banana Pudding Cookies.

• Texture Matters: Allow the cookies to cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks; this helps maintain the perfect texture.

• Freezing Tips: Make the dough ahead and freeze it for later use; you can bake straight from frozen by adding a couple more minutes to the baking time.

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Pudding Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavor with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours—just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough onto baking sheets and freeze them for up to 3 months; simply bake straight from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. When you’re ready to enjoy these cookies, just follow the baking instructions as outlined, and you’ll have warm, chewy cookies that taste just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Deliciously Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies

Picture a warm, inviting setting where sweet scents mingle in the air, creating the perfect backdrop for delightful moments.

Cold Milk: Nothing pairs better with cookies than a tall glass of cold milk, enhancing the flavors and adding a rich, creamy contrast.
Homemade Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream brings a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements the chewy texture of the cookies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The zest of citrus mixed with seasonal fruits offers a fresh balance that lightens the indulgence of the cookies.
Hot Coffee: The warmth and slight bitterness of coffee create a delicious harmony, enhancing the cookie’s sweetness while offering a cozy experience.
Warm Cup of Tea: A calming tea, such as chamomile or a classic Earl Grey, adds a comforting touch, perfect for enjoying with your cookies on a quiet afternoon.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a side of warm chocolate dipping sauce, elevating the cookie experience to a whole new level of sweetness.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunchy granola over yogurt can create a fun parfait with cookie crumbles, adding texture and contrasting flavors.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider ties in those nostalgic flavors, making every bite of your cookies feel cozy and inviting.

Banana Pudding Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Banana Pudding Cookies—these delicious twists will inspire your baking ventures!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-friendly treat.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap white chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, adding a rich flavor contrast.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that enhances the texture.
Graham Cracker Twist: Use crushed graham crackers instead of Nilla wafers, bringing a new flavor reminiscent of s’mores.
Banana Chips: Mix in banana chips for an added banana flavor and an enjoyable crunch in every bite.
Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut for a tropical touch that will transport your taste buds to paradise.
Spiced Surprise: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring warmth and depth, taking these cookies to the next level.
Fruity Fusion: Fold in some mini chocolate-covered raisins or cranberries for a fruity burst of flavor that makes each cookie unique.

These variations allow you to craft a personalized treat everyone will love, similar to how I enjoy making my Brown Butter Cookies on special occasions! Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cookies in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 2 weeks sealed in an airtight container.

Freezer: Freeze the cookie dough for up to 1 month. Scoop the dough onto baking sheets, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds. They’ll taste just as fresh as the day you made them!

Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use?
Absolutely, the riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas that are mostly brown with lots of speckling. They will provide the desired natural sweetness and moisture that makes these Banana Pudding Cookies so delicious.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Banana Pudding Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! To freeze the dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze until solid. Once solid, transfer the cookie dough to a freezer-friendly bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, you can go straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to your baking time!

What can I do if my cookies turn out too tough?
Tough cookies can happen if the dough is overmixed once you add the flour. To achieve that perfect chewiness, mix just until combined. If you encounter tough cookies, consider setting aside some of the flour next time, or be gentle when incorporating the dry ingredients.

Are these cookies suitable for kids with allergies?
While these Banana Pudding Cookies are made with common ingredients like flour and sugar, if you have kids with allergies, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients, especially packaged goods like pudding mix and chocolate chips, are allergy-friendly.