If you love banana pudding and cookies, why not combine the best of both worlds? This banana pudding cookie recipe brings together the sweet, creamy flavor of banana pudding with the soft, chewy texture of a cookie a match made in dessert heaven!
These cookies are packed with real banana flavor, crunchy vanilla wafers, and white chocolate chips, making them the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a party, or just a cozy night in, these easy-to-make cookies will steal the show.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from choosing the best ingredients to baking tips and fun variations. Get ready to whip up a batch of the best banana pudding cookies recipe you’ve ever tasted!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Banana Pudding Cookies
What Makes Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe So Special?
What happens when you take the classic flavors of banana pudding and bake them into a warm, chewy cookie? Pure magic! These cookies capture the rich, creamy essence of banana pudding while maintaining the crunchy bite of vanilla wafers—all in one delicious handheld treat.
Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this banana pudding cookie recipe:
✔ Soft & Chewy Texture – Thanks to the banana pudding mix and mashed bananas, these cookies stay moist and delicious.
✔ Packed with Flavor – Every bite is filled with the sweetness of ripe bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and crunchy Nilla Wafers.
✔ Easy to Make – No fancy techniques required—just mix, scoop, and bake!
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you need a quick dessert, a party treat, or an after-school snack, these cookies hit the spot.
How This Recipe Combines the Best of Cookies & Banana Pudding
Traditional banana pudding is a layered dessert with bananas, vanilla pudding, and cookies. These cookies condense all those flavors into a single, bite-sized treat, making them portable and easy to share.
By using banana pudding mix, crushed vanilla wafers, and real mashed bananas, this recipe recreates the creamy, nostalgic flavor of banana pudding—without the need for a spoon!
The Secret to Achieving a Soft, Chewy Texture
The key to soft, chewy cookies lies in choosing the right ingredients and following a few pro baking tips:
- Use banana pudding mix – It helps keep the cookies moist and enhances the banana flavor.
- Mash bananas well – The riper the bananas, the better the flavor and texture.
- Chill the dough – This prevents cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Don’t overbake! – Remove cookies when the edges are just set to keep them soft.
Now that you know why these cookies are a must-try, let’s dive into the essential ingredients you’ll need to make them.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Banana Pudding Cookie Recipe
To make the best banana pudding cookie recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies with that signature banana pudding taste.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles in the Recipe
✔ Ripe Bananas – These add natural sweetness and moisture, making the cookies ultra-soft. The riper the banana, the stronger the flavor!
✔ Banana Pudding Mix – Instant banana pudding mix is the secret ingredient that enhances the banana flavor while keeping the cookies soft and tender.
✔ Nilla Wafers (Vanilla Wafers) – These classic cookies provide a delightful crunch, giving the cookies a true banana pudding feel. Crush them into chunks for extra texture.
✔ Butter & Sugar – A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar creates the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness.
✔ Flour & Baking Soda – The foundation of any great cookie. All-purpose flour gives structure, while baking soda helps the cookies spread just the right amount.
✔ White Chocolate Chips – These add a creamy vanilla-like richness, complementing the banana flavor beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Want to customize your banana pudding cookie recipe ? Here are some simple swaps and modifications:
- No Banana Pudding Mix? Use extra mashed banana and a splash of vanilla extract.
- Want a Gluten-Free Version? Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free vanilla wafers.
- Making It Dairy-Free? Use plant-based butter and dairy-free white chocolate chips.
- Love Nuts? Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step baking process!
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Banana Pudding Cookies
Making these banana pudding cookies is super easy—you don’t need any special equipment or baking skills.
Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of soft, chewy cookies packed with banana pudding flavor!
Prepping the Ingredients: Mashing Bananas & Crushing Wafers
1️⃣ Mash the banana – Peel and mash one large ripe banana until smooth. It should have a pudding-like consistency.
2️⃣ Crush the vanilla wafers – Place Nilla Wafers in a ziplock bag and gently crush them into small chunks. Don’t grind them into powder—you want some crunch in your cookies!
Mixing the Dough: Achieving the Perfect Consistency
1️⃣ In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2️⃣ Add the mashed banana, banana pudding mix, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
3️⃣ Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4️⃣ Fold in the crushed Nilla Wafers and white chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution.
Chilling the Dough – Why It Matters
Chilling the cookie dough is optional but highly recommended. Here’s why:
✔ Prevents cookies from spreading too much.
✔ Enhances flavor by allowing ingredients to blend.
✔ Creates a softer, chewier texture.
Simply cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
Baking to Perfection: Oven Temperature & Timing
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3️⃣ Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
4️⃣ Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center still looks soft.
Cooling & Storing for Maximum Freshness
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 3 months.
Now that you know how to bake banana pudding cookies to perfection, let’s explore fun variations and creative twists!
Banana Pudding Cookie Recipe Variations
Love the classic banana pudding cookie recipe, but want to mix things up? There are plenty of fun and creative variations to try! Whether you like extra creamy cookies, gluten-free options, or crunchy add-ins, here are some exciting ways to customize this dessert.
Banana Pudding Cookie Bars – A Soft & Thick Alternative
If you prefer a thicker, more cake-like texture, turning your cookies into banana pudding bars is a fantastic idea.
🔹 How to Make It:
- Prepare the cookie dough as usual, but instead of shaping into individual cookies, spread the dough into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool before slicing into bars perfect for an easy, shareable treat!
Stuffed Banana Pudding Cookies with Creamy Filling
Want to take your cookies to the next level? Stuff them with a rich banana pudding filling!
🔹 How to Do It:
- Make the cookie dough and scoop out two tablespoons per cookie.
- Flatten each portion and add a small dollop of banana pudding or cream cheese in the center.
- Seal the dough around the filling, then bake as usual.
- The result? A gooey, pudding-filled cookie with an irresistible center!
Gluten-Free & Low-Sugar Versions for Healthier Treats
Need a gluten-free or low-sugar option? Here’s how to make it work:
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free vanilla wafers.
- Low-Sugar Version: Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar, and use sugar-free pudding mix.
Adding Nuts or Chocolate for Extra Flavor & Crunch
If you love a little crunch in your cookies, try mixing in:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts – Adds a nutty, buttery bite.
- Dark chocolate chips – A richer, deeper flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Toasted coconut flakes – A tropical twist that complements the banana flavor.
Now that you have some fun variations to try, let’s go over pro baking tips to make your banana pudding cookie recipe even better!
Pro Tips for Making the Best Banana Pudding Cookie Recipe
Even the simplest banana pudding cookie recipe can be elevated with a few pro baking tips. Here’s how to make sure your cookies turn out soft, chewy, and absolutely delicious every time.
How to Keep Cookies Soft & Chewy for Days
No one likes a hard, stale cookie! To keep them soft for longer:
- Don’t overbake – Remove cookies from the oven when the edges are just set. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
- Use more brown sugar – The extra moisture in brown sugar keeps cookies chewy.
Preventing Cookies from Spreading Too Much
If your cookies are spreading too thin, here’s what to do:
- Chill the dough – Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes before baking. This prevents excess spreading.
- Use room-temperature butter – Melted butter can cause cookies to spread too much.
- Measure flour correctly – Too little flour makes cookies thin and crispy. Always spoon and level instead of scooping directly from the bag.
Balancing Sweetness & Texture with the Right Ingredients
The key to the perfect banana pudding cookie is flavor balance. Here’s how to get it right:
- Add a pinch of salt – Enhances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
- Use real vanilla extract – Fake vanilla can give an artificial taste.
- Mix pudding flavors – Try combining banana and vanilla pudding mix for a well-rounded flavor.
By following these pro tips, your banana pudding cookies will be bakery-quality every time!
Serving Ideas & Pairings for Banana Pudding Cookies
A great dessert isn’t just about taste—it’s about presentation and pairings too! Whether you’re serving these cookies at a party, a holiday gathering, or just treating yourself, these fun and creative serving ideas will take your banana pudding cookie recipe to the next level.
The Best Drinks to Enjoy with These Cookies
Pairing your banana pudding cookie recipe with the right drink enhances their flavor and texture. Here are some perfect beverage pairings:
✔ Cold Milk – A classic combo! The creamy, slightly sweet taste of milk pairs beautifully with soft, chewy cookies.
✔ Banana Milkshake – For a banana overload, blend up a banana milkshake and enjoy it alongside your cookies.
✔ Hot Coffee or Espresso – The richness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies.
✔ Iced Vanilla Latte – A smooth, creamy vanilla latte complements the banana and vanilla wafer flavors.
✔ Sweet Tea – If you love Southern-style desserts, a glass of iced sweet tea makes a refreshing match!
Turning Them Into Ice Cream Sandwiches
Want to make your banana pudding cookie recipe even more indulgent? Try using them for homemade ice cream sandwiches!
🔹 How to Do It:
- Take two banana pudding cookies and add a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream in between.
- Gently press together and roll the edges in crushed Nilla Wafers for extra crunch.
- Freeze for 10-15 minutes before serving for the perfect cold, creamy treat!
Using Them as a Topping for Banana Pudding Dessert
If you’re a fan of traditional banana pudding, why not use these cookies as a topping? Instead of using regular vanilla wafers, crumble a few banana pudding cookies on top for a soft, chewy twist.
🔹 Try This:
- Layered banana pudding cups with crushed cookies on top.
- Banana parfaits using cookie crumbles for texture.
- Banana pudding cheesecake with a banana pudding cookie crust!
Now that you know how to serve these cookies, let’s answer some of the most common questions about this recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding Cookie Recipe
When making a banana pudding cookie recipe, people often have a few questions. Here are some of the most common ones—answered!
What Cookies to Use in Banana Pudding?
The best cookies for banana pudding are:
- Nilla Wafers – These are the classic choice, offering a light, crisp texture that softens over time.
- Shortbread Cookies – A buttery, rich option that holds up well in banana pudding.
- Chessmen Cookies – These buttery shortbread cookies add a delicate crunch.
- Graham Crackers – If you love a honey-cinnamon flavor, these work great as a base or topping.
For this banana pudding cookie recipe, we use Nilla Wafers to keep the classic flavor intact!
Do Nilla Wafers Get Soggy in Banana Pudding?
Yes, Nilla Wafers do soften when layered in banana pudding, but that’s part of their charm! They absorb the pudding’s creamy texture, creating a soft, cake-like consistency.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you prefer crunchier wafers, add them just before serving rather than letting them sit in the pudding overnight.
Is Banana Cream Pudding the Same as Banana Pudding?
Not exactly! Banana pudding is a layered dessert made with vanilla pudding, bananas, and cookies. On the other hand, banana cream pudding usually refers to banana-flavored instant pudding that’s used as a filling or topping.
For this banana pudding cookie recipe, we use banana pudding mix to pack in that delicious banana flavor without needing fresh bananas.
What Is the Secret to Making Cookies Soft and Chewy?
The key to soft, chewy cookies comes down to a few essential baking tricks:
✔ Use banana pudding mix – It keeps the cookies moist and tender.
✔ Brown sugar is your friend – It adds extra moisture compared to white sugar.
✔ Don’t overbake! – Remove cookies when the edges are set, but the center is slightly soft.
✔ Chill the dough – This prevents excessive spreading and creates a chewier texture.
By following these tips, your banana pudding cookies will turn out perfectly soft and delicious every time!
Why This Banana Pudding Cookie Recipe is a Must-Try
If you’re a fan of banana pudding, then this banana pudding cookie recipe is a must-try! These cookies take everything you love about the classic Southern dessert and transform it into a soft, chewy, and portable treat.
From the rich banana flavor and creamy vanilla pudding mix to the crunchy bits of Nilla Wafers, every bite is packed with delicious nostalgia.
Plus, they’re easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and simple baking steps. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just craving something sweet, these cookies are the perfect choice.
Bringing Together the Best Flavors of Banana Pudding & Cookies
Why choose between banana pudding and cookies when you can have both? This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, creating a treat that’s:
✔ Soft, chewy, and full of banana flavor
✔ Easy to customize with fun variations
✔ Perfectly balanced with creamy and crunchy textures
A Simple Yet Irresistible Dessert for Any Occasion
These cookies are great for:
- Holiday baking – A unique addition to your dessert table.
- Snack time – Perfect with a cup of coffee or milk.
- Gift giving – Bake a batch for friends and family!
Now, it’s your turn! Try this banana pudding cookie recipe and see why everyone is raving about it. Happy baking!
Call to Action – Share Your Banana Pudding Cookie Recipe Creations!
We’d love to see how your banana pudding cookies turn out! If you try this recipe, be sure to:
📸 Snap a photo and share it on social media! Tag us so we can see your delicious creations.
💬 Leave a comment below—did you try any fun variations?
⭐ Rate the recipe if you loved it! Your feedback helps others who want to try it.
Want more delicious cookie recipes? Stay tuned for new sweet and easy desserts to add to your baking list!
Enjoy your homemade banana pudding cookies, and happy baking! 🍪🍌
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