Name: Deliciously Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies for Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 56 min
Ingredients: 1 box Banana Pudding Mix (Use instant pudding mix only); 1 cup Butter (Softened unsalted); 0.5 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 0.5 cup White Sugar; 2 large Eggs; 2 cups Flour (All-purpose flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Crushed Nilla Wafers; 0.5 cup White Chocolate Chips (Optional)

As I sat on the porch, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas wafting through the air transported me back to carefree summer days spent at my grandmother’s house. That cozy feeling inspired me to whip up a batch of soft, chewy Banana Pudding Cookies. These delightful cookies are a delicious twist on the classic Southern dessert, combining ripe bananas and creamy vanilla pudding with the nostalgic crunch of Nilla wafers. Not only are they an absolute crowd-pleaser for gatherings, but they also come together quickly—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave homemade sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just as a little treat for yourself, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy. Curious about how these easy cookies can transform your dessert game? Let’s dive in!

Why are Banana Pudding Cookies a Must-Try?

Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious cookies ready in no time.

Nostalgic Flavor: The combo of ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, and crunchy Nilla wafers evokes comforting memories of home-baked treats.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer gluten-free or vegan, this recipe offers adaptations to suit everyone’s preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Be it a cozy night in or a fun gathering, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy.

Store and Share: Keep leftover cookies fresh for days, or freeze dough for a spontaneous baking session whenever cravings strike! For more cookie inspiration, check out my Lava Brownie Cookies or Vanilla Waffle Cookies for delightful variations that will please any palate!

Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients

• Bake your best cookies yet!

For the Cookie Base

Banana Pudding Mix – Use instant pudding mix only for the ideal chewy texture and rich banana flavor.
Butter – Softened unsalted butter is crucial for adding richness and tenderness to the dough.
Sugar – A combination of brown and white sugars ensures balanced sweetness while keeping the cookies moist.
Eggs – These provide structure and help bind all the ingredients together.
Flour – Standard all-purpose flour forms the foundation of your cookie base.
Baking Soda – This leavening agent helps the cookies rise slightly, resulting in a delightful texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhance the overall flavor with a splash of vanilla, which melds beautifully with the banana.

For the Crunch

Crushed Nilla Wafers – These add a nostalgic crunch and flavor, making them an integral part of the cookie experience.
White Chocolate Chips (optional) – For an extra layer of creamy sweetness, fold in these chips to enhance the cookie’s flavor.

Feel free to experiment with variations as you perfect your Banana Pudding Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. This step sets the stage for baking your delicious Banana Pudding Cookies, ensuring they cook evenly and develop that lovely golden edge.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Use a hand mixer to cream the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This fluffy texture is essential for the rich moisture and sweetness in your Banana Pudding Cookies.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in two large eggs along with a splash of vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Mix until just combined, ensuring a smooth blend. This step adds structure and enhances the overall flavor profile of your cookies, setting a delicious base for the rest of the ingredients.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients Together
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, banana pudding mix, and baking soda. This creates a uniform dry mixture. Once well combined, gradually introduce the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. This crucial blending helps develop the perfect texture for your Banana Pudding Cookies.

Step 5: Form the Cookie Dough
Once your thick dough forms, gently fold in the crushed Nilla wafers and white chocolate chips, if using. Use a spatula to mix carefully, ensuring you maintain the airiness of the dough. The addition of these crunchy elements enhances the nostalgic flavor you love in banana pudding.

Step 6: Scoop and Chill the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, place dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Once all the dough is scooped, pop the sheets into the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading, ensuring your cookies come out perfectly shaped.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
After chilling, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be golden brown while the centers remain soft. This balance provides the chewy texture characteristic of your Banana Pudding Cookies.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them set properly before transferring them to a wire rack. Letting them cool completely will enhance their flavors and provide the ideal bite for your delightful homemade treat.

Banana Pudding Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful cookies with these tempting twists!

Cookie Bars: Press the dough into a baking dish and cut into squares for an easy, shareable treat. These chewy bars are excellent for parties or on-the-go snacks!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies celiac-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Swap: Replace butter with plant-based butter, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and ensure your pudding mix is dairy-free for a delicious vegan version.
Stuffed Cookies: For an indulgent treat, wrap the dough around cream cheese frosting or Nutella before baking. Each bite is a delightful surprise!
Banana Peanut Butter Twist: Mix in peanut butter for a nutty flavor that compliments the banana beautifully. The combination creates a comforting and satisfying cookie experience.
Spiced Up Cookies: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the classic banana flavor to new heights.
Chocolate-Dipped Delight: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate after baking for an extra layer of sweetness. Serve these to impress your friends and family!
Mix it Up: Try adding different mix-ins like chopped nuts or toffee bits to the dough for added texture and flavor surprises in every bite.

These variations are proof that there’s no limit to creativity in the kitchen! For more delightful treats, don’t forget to check out my Lava Brownie Cookies or Vanilla Waffle Cookies for baking inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Pudding Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade sweetness any day of the week! You can mix the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just scoop the dough onto baking sheets, cover tightly, and keep in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the crushed Nilla wafers ahead of time—store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, and then pop the cookies in the oven. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delightful Banana Pudding Cookies in no time.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain softness and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container, where they can last up to 1 week without losing their delightful taste.

Freezer: Freeze either baked cookies or raw dough for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before baking or enjoy baked cookies straight from the freezer.

Reheating: To enjoy warm, soft cookies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. Perfect for reliving those yummy moments with your Banana Pudding Cookies!

Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Cookies

Chill Your Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It prevents spreading and enhances the flavor of your Banana Pudding Cookies.

Use Instant Pudding: Always opt for instant pudding mix, as cook-and-serve types won’t give you that chewy texture.

Avoid Overmixing: When adding flour, mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender and light.

Employ a Cookie Scoop: For uniformity, use a cookie scoop; it ensures even baking and perfect shapes.

Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; golden edges and soft centers are key to the perfect chewy texture.

What to Serve with Chewy Banana Pudding Cookies?

Imagine a cozy afternoon filled with laughter, sweet treats, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, chewy cookies, enhancing their banana flavor. A scoop on top creates an indulgent experience.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over cookies adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the banana pudding notes, making each bite decadent.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy strawberries or tart raspberries offer a refreshing burst of acidity, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Milk: A classic pairing, a tall glass of cold milk washes down those Banana Pudding Cookies effortlessly and evokes a comforting childhood memory.
Coffee: The robust flavor of a hot cup of coffee harmonizes with the soft sweetness of the cookies, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Chopped Nuts: Add some crunch by sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cookies. They bring a delightful texture and nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate not only enhances the sweetness but adds a delightful twist, making these cookies even more irresistible.
Coconut Flakes: Fluffy toasted coconut adds another layer of flavor, perfectly complementing the tropical vibes of the bananas in every bite.
Banana Pudding: For a true dessert experience, serve your cookies alongside a small bowl of traditional banana pudding, merging flavors for a nostalgic treat.

Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas are best for Banana Pudding Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use ripe bananas that are spotty and soft. The more brown spots they have, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll be. Overripe bananas will give your cookies that rich banana taste, enhancing the overall deliciousness.

How should I store leftover Banana Pudding Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, and they should stay delightful for up to a week. Just make sure to seal the container tightly to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cookies?
Certainly! You can freeze either baked cookies or the raw dough. To freeze baked cookies, simply place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For raw dough, scoop the cookie balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them individually for about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen dough to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

How do I fix cookies that spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread more than you like, chill the dough longer before baking or add a bit more flour to the mixture next time. Ensuring your butter is softened correctly (but not melted) can also help maintain shape while baking. Remember that overly warm dough can lead to more spreading, so keep it cool!

Are these cookies gluten-free or vegan friendly?
Very! You can make a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free pudding mix. These adaptations allow everyone to enjoy the deliciousness of Banana Pudding Cookies, regardless of dietary preferences!

Can pets eat Banana Pudding Cookies?
No, it’s best to avoid sharing these cookies with your furry friends. Ingredients like sugar and certain additives in the pudding mix are not safe for pets and can lead to health issues. Always keep your homemade treats to yourself and opt for pet-safe snacks for your pups!