Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Banana Pudding Cookies combine the creamy, nostalgic flavors of banana pudding with the soft and chewy texture of homemade cookies. Perfect for banana lovers, these cookies are packed with banana flavor, vanilla wafers, and white chocolate chips for a truly irresistible treat!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 box (3.4 oz) banana cream instant pudding mix
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped ripe banana (optional for extra flavor)
For the Topping (Optional):
- Extra crushed vanilla wafers for garnish
- Extra white chocolate chips for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Sprinkle in the banana pudding mix, stirring to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers, white chocolate chips, and chopped banana (if using).
Step 2: Chill and Bake
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes (this helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading).
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- While the cookies are still warm, press a few extra white chocolate chips on top for a bakery-style look.
- Sprinkle with additional crushed vanilla wafers for extra crunch.
- Let cookies cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Banana Flavor: Use mashed ripe banana in place of some butter for a natural banana boost.
- Chewier Cookies: Add an extra egg yolk for a richer, chewier texture.
- Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Chocolate Lover’s Version: Swap white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate chips.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Pudding Cookies are a fun and delicious twist on classic banana pudding. With their soft texture, rich banana flavor, and crunchy vanilla wafer bits, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!
Try them out and enjoy a taste of nostalgia in every bite! 🍌🍪
