We’ve taken the beloved Southern dessert and transformed it into the perfect handheld treat that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). Our banana pudding cookies capture all the creamy vanilla and banana flavors you crave in traditional banana pudding but deliver them in a soft chewy cookie that’s impossible to resist.
These aren’t your ordinary cookies – they’re loaded with real banana flavor and that signature vanilla wafer crunch that makes banana pudding so special. We’ve perfected the balance between tender cookie texture and those nostalgic flavors that remind us of family gatherings and summer potlucks.
The best part? You don’t need to wait hours for pudding to set or worry about layers falling apart. These cookies deliver instant gratification while still honoring the classic dessert we all love. They’re perfect for lunch boxes bake sales or whenever you’re craving that comforting banana pudding taste in a completely new way.
Ingredients
We’ve organized our ingredients into three simple categories to make your baking process smooth and efficient. Each component plays a crucial role in creating these irresistible banana pudding cookies.
For the Cookies
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (about ⅓ cup)
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies, roughly crushed
For the Banana Pudding Filling
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, diced small
For the Topping
- ½ cup vanilla wafer cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Equipment Needed
We need exact tools to create these delectable banana pudding cookies successfully. Our baking arsenal should include both basic and specialized equipment to ensure perfect results every time.
Essential Mixing Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl for combining wet ingredients
- Medium bowl for whisking dry ingredients together
- Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer) for creaming butter and sugars
- Rubber spatula for folding ingredients and scraping bowl sides
Baking Preparation Tools:
- Cookie scoop or large spoon for portioning dough consistently
- Baking sheets (at least two for efficient baking)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy removal
- Wire cooling racks for proper cookie cooling
Measuring and Prep Equipment:
- Measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients
- Measuring spoons for precise amounts of extracts and spices
- Kitchen scale for accurate measurements (optional but recommended)
Additional Helpful Tools:
- Whisk for combining dry ingredients smoothly
- Small bowl for mashing bananas
- Rolling pin for crushing vanilla wafer cookies
- Plastic wrap for storing dough if needed
We recommend having all equipment ready before starting to ensure smooth preparation. Clean mixing bowls are crucial since any residual grease can affect how ingredients combine. Our cookie scoop creates uniform portions that bake evenly and look professional. Multiple baking sheets allow us to prepare the next batch while one bakes in the oven.
Instructions
We’ll walk through each step to create these irresistible banana pudding cookies that capture all the nostalgic flavors of the beloved Southern dessert. Our systematic approach ensures perfect results every time.
Prep the Cookie Dough
We begin by whisking together 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking soda in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside while we prepare the wet ingredients.
In our large mixing bowl, we cream 1 cup salted butter with 3/4 cup light brown sugar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.
Next, we add one 3.4-ounce package of instant banana cream pudding mix to our creamed butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated before adding 2 large eggs one at a time. Pour in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually fold the flour mixture into our wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. We avoid overmixing to maintain tender cookies. Finally, we gently fold in 1 cup white chocolate chips and 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Make the Banana Pudding Filling
We prepare the filling by whisking together one 3.4-ounce package instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 1/2 cups cold milk in our medium bowl. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
In a separate bowl, we whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into our pudding mixture.
We carefully incorporate 1 cup diced fresh bananas into the filling. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate while we bake our cookies.
Bake the Cookies
Our oven preheats to 350°F while we line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, we form 1-inch dough balls and place them 2 inches apart on our prepared baking sheets.
We bake the cookies for 8 to 9 minutes until the edges appear lightly set but centers still look slightly underdone. The cookies will continue cooking on the hot pan after removal.
Transfer our baked cookies to wire cooling racks and allow them to cool completely before assembling. This cooling step prevents the filling from melting when we add it later.
Assemble the Banana Pudding Cookies
Once our cookies have cooled, we create sandwich cookies by spooning 1-2 tablespoons of banana pudding filling onto the flat side of half our cookies. Gently press another cookie on top to create our sandwich.
For a deluxe presentation, we can top each assembled cookie with a dollop of additional pudding filling. We crush 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies into coarse crumbs and sprinkle them generously over the filling.
Add the Final Touches
We finish our banana pudding cookies by chilling them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step helps set the filling and enhances the overall texture.
Store our completed cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. We recommend bringing them to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
For extra indulgence, we can drizzle melted white chocolate over the assembled cookies or add a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage keeps our banana pudding cookies fresh and maintains their soft, chewy texture. We recommend placing these delicious treats in an airtight container or zip-top bag immediately after they’ve cooled completely.
At room temperature, our banana pudding cookies stay fresh for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. This storage method works perfectly for frosted cookies as well, maintaining their quality for the same timeframe. We always ensure the container seals tightly to prevent moisture exposure that could affect texture and taste.
Refrigeration extends the freshness of our cookies significantly. When stored in the refrigerator, banana pudding cookies remain fresh for up to 10 days. This method works particularly well for our assembled sandwich cookies with banana pudding filling.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Airtight container or zip-top bag |
| Refrigerated | Up to 10 days | Airtight container |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe container with parchment layers |
For longer storage, freezing offers an excellent solution. We stack our completely cooled cookies with parchment paper between layers before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen banana pudding cookies maintain their quality for up to three months.
When ready to serve frozen cookies, we thaw them at room temperature or use brief microwave intervals as needed. Extra care prevents heat exposure during storage, which can compromise the rich banana and vanilla flavors we’ve worked to create.
Pre-packaged banana pudding cookies should be stored in a cool, dry place, following the best by date on the packaging for optimal quality.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead transforms banana pudding cookie preparation into a stress-free experience. We’ve tested multiple storage methods to help you maximize convenience while maintaining that perfect soft, chewy texture.
Freezing Cookie Dough
Cookie dough balls freeze beautifully for up to 30 days according to our testing at Stephanie’s Sweet Treats. Scoop the dough into individual portions before freezing, then store them in freezer-safe bags. This method allows us to bake fresh cookies whenever cravings strike without starting from scratch.
Refrigerating Dough
Short-term storage works perfectly when wrapped properly. We recommend wrapping cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap for refrigeration up to one day, as confirmed by Olives N’Thyme. This technique keeps the dough fresh while allowing flavors to meld together.
Freezing Baked Cookies
Completely baked banana pudding cookies maintain their quality for up to one month when stored in freezer-safe bags. Fun Cookie Recipes confirms this timeline through extensive testing. Layer cookies between parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Cookie dough balls (frozen) | 30 days | Freezer-safe bags |
| Cookie dough (refrigerated) | 1 day | Plastic wrap |
| Baked cookies (frozen) | 1 month | Freezer-safe bags |
| Baked cookies (room temperature) | 1 week | Airtight container |
Room Temperature Storage
Everyday Family Cooking research shows that baked cookies stay fresh at room temperature for up to one week. Store them in airtight containers to maintain moisture and prevent the white chocolate chips from losing their creamy texture.
These make-ahead strategies ensure we always have delicious banana pudding cookies ready for unexpected guests or sudden sweet tooth emergencies.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend presenting these banana pudding cookies warm from the oven when their flavors are most pronounced and the texture remains perfectly soft. Room temperature serving works beautifully for events and gatherings where guests can enjoy the cookies at their leisure.
Presentation displays enhance the visual appeal of our banana pudding cookies. We arrange them on decorative platters or tiered stands to showcase their golden edges and chunky vanilla wafer pieces. Dusting the serving area with powdered sugar creates an elegant backdrop that mimics traditional banana pudding presentation.
Creative toppings transform these cookies into restaurant quality desserts. We prepare a simple pudding based topping by whisking together cold milk with additional vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Drizzling this mixture over individual cookies adds authentic banana pudding flavor while creating an Instagram worthy presentation.
Garnish options provide extra texture and visual interest. We crush additional vanilla wafers and sprinkle them over the cookies just before serving. Fresh banana slices arranged alongside the cookies reinforce the banana pudding theme while adding natural sweetness.
Beverage pairings complement the rich flavors perfectly. Cold milk remains the classic choice that balances the sweetness and enhances the nostalgic experience. Coffee and tea work exceptionally well for adult gatherings while providing a sophisticated contrast to the playful cookie flavors.
Storage for serving maintains optimal freshness throughout events. We keep the cookies in airtight containers at room temperature when serving within three hours. Longer events require refrigerated storage with cookies brought to room temperature 15 minutes before guests arrive to ensure the best texture and flavor experience.
Recipe Variations
We can easily transform our banana pudding cookies into exciting new variations while maintaining that beloved classic flavor. These adaptations allow us to customize the recipe for different preferences and occasions.
Chocolate Chip Banana Pudding Cookies
We love adding chocolate chips to our banana pudding cookies for an extra layer of indulgent flavor. Fold 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie dough after incorporating the mashed banana and crushed vanilla wafers. The chocolate chips create delightful pockets of richness that complement the creamy banana pudding filling perfectly. These cookies combine the best of both worlds with the sweetness of banana pudding and the satisfying bite of chocolate. We recommend using mini chocolate chips for more even distribution throughout each cookie.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup | Adds richness and chocolate flavor |
| Mini chocolate chips | 1 cup (alternative) | Provides more even distribution |
Mini Banana Pudding Cookie Bites
We create these adorable bite-sized treats by using a small cookie scoop to portion the dough into 1-tablespoon portions instead of our standard 2-tablespoon size. Bake these mini cookies for 8-10 minutes at 350°F until the edges are lightly golden. The smaller size makes them perfect for parties and gatherings where guests prefer bite-sized desserts. We fill these mini cookies with about 1 teaspoon of banana pudding filling to maintain the proper ratio of cookie to filling. These petite versions are ideal for lunch boxes and offer portion control while still delivering all the flavors we love.
| Size Comparison | Standard Cookies | Mini Cookie Bites |
|---|---|---|
| Dough portion | 2 tablespoons | 1 tablespoon |
| Baking time | 12-14 minutes | 8-10 minutes |
| Filling amount | 2 tablespoons | 1 teaspoon |
Conclusion
These banana pudding cookies bring together the best of both worlds – the beloved flavors of Southern banana pudding in a convenient handheld treat. We’ve shown you how simple ingredients can create something truly special that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Whether you’re making them for a bake sale or just treating your family we’re confident these cookies will become a regular in your baking rotation. The make-ahead tips and storage options mean you can always have these delicious treats ready when cravings hit.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations we’ve shared. From chocolate chip additions to mini bite-sized versions there’s a perfect way to customize these cookies for any occasion or preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are banana pudding cookies?
Banana pudding cookies are a creative twist on the classic Southern dessert. They capture the creamy vanilla and banana flavors of traditional banana pudding in cookie form, featuring a soft, chewy texture with crunchy vanilla wafer elements. These cookies offer instant satisfaction without lengthy preparation time.
How long do banana pudding cookies stay fresh?
At room temperature, banana pudding cookies stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When refrigerated, they last up to 10 days, especially assembled sandwich cookies. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months using proper packaging with parchment paper.
Can I make banana pudding cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can freeze cookie dough balls for up to 30 days or refrigerate wrapped dough for one day. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to one month or stored at room temperature for one week in airtight containers, making them perfect for meal prep.
What ingredients do I need for banana pudding cookies?
You’ll need three main components: cookie ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, butter, sugars, eggs, vanilla, mashed banana, crushed vanilla wafers), banana pudding filling (instant pudding mix, milk, cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, diced bananas), and topping (crushed wafers, butter, sugar).
How should I serve banana pudding cookies?
Serve them warm from the oven or at room temperature for best flavor. Arrange on decorative platters, dust with powdered sugar, or add pudding drizzle and crushed wafers. They pair perfectly with cold milk, coffee, or tea for gatherings and events.
Can I customize banana pudding cookies with variations?
Absolutely! Popular variations include adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra indulgence or making mini banana pudding cookie bites for parties and lunch boxes. These adaptations maintain the classic flavor while offering new presentation options.
