Delicious Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe You’ll Love

Discover the Joy of Banana Pudding Cookies

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that many of us have grown up loving. It brings back memories of family gatherings, potlucks, and sunny afternoons. Now, imagine taking that beloved flavor and transforming it into soft, chewy cookies! This recipe for banana pudding cookies is not only easy to follow but also delivers all the delightful flavors you adore in a convenient, bite-sized treat. Ideal for cookie lovers and banana enthusiasts alike, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistibly soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Deliciously rich banana flavor paired with a creamy essence.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy treat at home.
Simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
Quick to prepare, making it a great last-minute dessert option.
A fun twist on traditional banana pudding that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pudding Flavor

1 cup vanilla instant pudding mix

Optional Mix-Ins

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the Eggs and Bananas: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and vanilla pudding mix.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix!
Add Optional Mix-Ins: If desired, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Scoop and Bake: Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

These banana pudding cookies are delicious on their own, but they can also be served in delightful ways. Here are some ideas:

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Use them as a sweet addition to a dessert platter at parties or celebrations.
Crush and sprinkle over yogurt or oatmeal for a tasty breakfast twist.

Tips for Success

To ensure your banana pudding cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use overripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
Don’t skip the chilling time; letting the dough sit in the fridge for 30 minutes can enhance the texture.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins, such as dried fruits or flavored chips, to customize your cookies.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try:

Chocolate Banana Pudding Cookies: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Nutty Banana Cookies: Incorporate different nuts like macadamia or almonds for a crunchy texture.
Banana Coconut Cookies: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Final Thoughts

These banana pudding cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of a classic dessert in cookie form. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to please. So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a treat that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!