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If you love the nostalgic flavors of creamy banana pudding and crave a fun twist on that classic dessert, this Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine chewy, soft cookies bursting with banana and vanilla flavors, sandwiched with a luscious, whipped cream filling that’s studded with crunchy vanilla wafers. Every bite feels like a cozy hug from your favorite Southern kitchen. It’s simple, delightful, and sure to become a treasured recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe is straightforward but key to capturing those perfect flavors and textures. Each component has its role, whether it’s adding moisture, chewiness, or that unmistakable banana-vanilla essence.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base of the cookies that gives them structure and a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for softness without spreading too thin.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the other ingredients’ flavors.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich flavor and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough evenly and aids in browning.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Brings moistness and a subtle molasses note.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Essential for deep, comforting aroma and taste.
1 teaspoon banana extract: Infuses the cookies with unmistakable banana flavor, making this recipe shine.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add tenderness.
1/2 cup instant vanilla pudding mix (small box): Adds flavor and a soft, chewy texture that’s uniquely delicious.
1 cup mini vanilla wafer cookies, crushed: Adds delightful crunch and authenticity to the banana pudding vibe within the cookie dough.
1/2 cup heavy cream: For whipping into the dreamy filling that sandwiches the cookies.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the whipped cream filling perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Added to the filling for extra sweet aroma and flavor.
1/2 teaspoon banana extract: Enhances the banana notes in the filling.
1/2 cup mini vanilla wafer cookies, crushed (for topping): For rolling the edges of the filled cookies, adding texture and visual appeal.

How to Make Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when your dough is ready. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt—these dry ingredients create the perfect foundation for your cookies. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy; this step helps create a tender dough full of flavor.

Step 2: Add the Flavor and Eggs

Now add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to give your cookies that soft texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and banana extract to infuse the dough with that irresistible aroma and flavor. Finally, mix in the instant vanilla pudding mix, which adds moistness and a subtle hint of sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies from becoming tough. Lastly, fold in the crushed mini vanilla wafers—this little crunch inside the dough is what makes these cookies truly special.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the centers feel set but soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience rewards you with perfectly chewy cookies.

Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—stiff peaks are essential to give the filling body and hold. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar for sweetness, then stir in the vanilla and banana extracts to echo the cookie flavors in the filling. This cream will become the luscious center of your cookie sandwiches.

Step 6: Assemble the Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe

Spread or pipe a generous amount of the whipped cream filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. For a gorgeous finish and added crunch, roll the edges of the cookie sandwiches in more crushed mini vanilla wafers. This playful detail adds both texture and visual charm to your desserts.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few whole vanilla wafers on the serving plate or dust the cookie tops lightly with a bit of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. If you want to embrace the banana theme, thin banana slices or a small dollop of whipped cream on the side make lovely garnishes that complement the cookies perfectly.

Side Dishes

These Banana Pudding Cookies are stellar on their own but also pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea. For a more indulgent spread, serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to heighten the creamy, fruity vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifts, arrange these cookies in a pretty stack tied with a colorful ribbon. You can also place them on a dessert platter layered with banana leaves or with a banana-themed centerpiece to amp up the charm. If serving kids, try decorating with mini chocolate chips or drizzles of melted white chocolate for extra fun and appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, store these Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They maintain their soft texture and creamy filling beautifully for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled also helps keep the whipped cream filling fresh and stable.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these delights later, unassembled cookie layers freeze best. Freeze the baked cookie halves in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely and assemble with freshly whipped filling to keep that fresh taste.

Reheating

Since these cookies are best served with chilled whipped cream filling, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a slightly warmed cookie experience, heat just the cookie halves individually in an oven or microwave for a few seconds before assembling for a soft, warm-and-cool contrast.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh bananas for banana extract in the Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe?

Fresh bananas add moisture and flavor but can change the texture and increase wetness, making the dough softer and slightly sticky. Banana extract provides concentrated flavor without extra moisture, so if you do use fresh bananas, reduce other liquids slightly and adjust baking time accordingly.

What type of vanilla wafers work best in this recipe?

Mini vanilla wafers are ideal because they mix evenly into the dough and give a subtle crunch. They also make perfect toppings for rolling the cookie edges. Regular-sized wafers can be crushed and used, but mini versions provide more consistent texture and baking results.

Can I make this Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your vanilla pudding mix and other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.

How long do these cookies stay fresh once assembled?

Because they contain a whipped cream filling, these cookies are best enjoyed within 3 days if stored in the refrigerator. After that, the filling may start to break down, and the cookies could soften too much.

Is it possible to make the whipped cream filling without heavy cream?

Heavy cream is key for a stable whipped filling; however, you can try using whipped topping as a substitute, but it may not provide the same richness or hold. For best results, stick with heavy cream to keep that luscious, fluffy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe is truly a treasure that combines comforting flavors with playful textures. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special treat, or just because, these cookies will bring smiles and a taste of sweet nostalgia. Go ahead and try it—you’ll find these cookies are as joyful to make as they are to eat!

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