Oh my goodness, friends! Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite cookie recipes: *Banana Pudding Cookies*! If you’re like me and can’t resist the sweet, creamy goodness of banana pudding, then these cookies are going to steal your heart (and your taste buds!). Picture a soft, chewy cookie filled with creamy banana flavor and a delightful crunch thanks to the vanilla wafers. Seriously, can it get any better?
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering where my cousin whipped up a batch just for fun. Let’s just say I may have accidentally eaten my weight in those cookies that day! Every bite brought back memories of summer picnics, laughter, and good old-fashioned comfort food. It’s honestly the perfect cookie to share or keep all to yourself—no judgment here!
What’s in Banana Pudding Cookies?
Let’s break it down and see what makes these cookies so delicious!
Unsalted Butter: The foundation of any good cookie! I always use unsalted butter so that I can control how much salt goes into my mix. Just make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and that lovely, rich flavor that pairs so well with bananas. I like to pack my brown sugar into the measuring cup for the best results.
Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness never hurt, right? This adds to the texture and helps the cookies spread perfectly.
Egg: One large egg brings it all together, adding richness and structure to the cookies.
Vanilla Extract: The magic flavor enhancer! A splash of vanilla elevates the whole cookie experience.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of the cookie structure. It helps keep our treats together.
Baking Soda: Gives our cookies a nice lift, so they’re soft and chewy instead of dry.
Salt: Just a touch to balance out those sweet flavors.
Instant Banana Pudding Mix: This is the star of the show! Not only does it give the cookies a delightful banana flavor, but it also makes them extra soft and chewy.
White Chocolate Chips: Sweet, creamy bits of joy that elevate each bite. If you’re like me and a self-proclaimed white chocolate fanatic, you’ll love these!
Vanilla Wafer Cookies: The nostalgic crunch! These guys add a delicious texture and flavor to each cookie. Don’t skip on the extra for garnish; it’s totally worth it!
Is Banana Pudding Cookies Good for You?
Now, let’s be real—these cookies aren’t exactly health food, but they do bring a little joy to your day. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Banana Pudding Mix: While delicious, keep an eye on those ingredients if you’re watching sugar content. But hey, it’s cookies! A treat here and there won’t hurt.
Butter & Sugar: These are staples in baking, and while they add flavor and texture, moderation is key. It’s all about balance!
That said, you can always experiment with substitutes—like using coconut oil instead of butter or even trying a sugar alternative if you’re looking to cut back a bit.
How to Make Banana Pudding Cookies?
Ready to dive into the baking magic? Let’s do this!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the cookies bake evenly and not stick.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for the cookies’ texture!
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until well combined. The mixture should smell heavenly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and banana pudding mix. This helps ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft cookies!
6. Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed vanilla wafer cookies until evenly distributed. Get ready for that mouthwatering smell!
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you want to, top each cookie with extra crushed vanilla wafers for a cute garnish.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still soft. The aroma will be impossible to resist!
9. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Feel free to sneak a taste while they’re still warm!
10. Enjoy your delicious Banana Pudding Cookies with a glass of milk; trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Cookie Secrets and Serving Suggestions
Let’s get a little creative with these cookies!
– Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy twist.
– Feeling adventurous? Swap out white chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a bold flavor contrast.
– If you want to make it even more banana-licious, you can fold in some mashed ripe bananas for extra fruitiness. Just remember to adjust the flour slightly since the bananas add moisture.
– These cookies also make for stunning gifts! Just package them up in a cute tin or box, and watch smiles appear!
I can’t wait for you to give these Banana Pudding Cookies a try! I promise you’ll be hooked after just one bite (or three). Let me know how yours turn out, and feel free to share any fun twists you tried along the way—happy baking!
