Delightfully Soft Cookies That Bring Back Memories
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding with the comforting texture of a cookie, you’ve found it! These banana pudding cookies are not only quick to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. In just 30 minutes, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies, and your taste buds will be dancing with joy. The soft, fluffy centers and golden edges make these cookies a delightful indulgence for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a homemade snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies take only 30 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for those spontaneous baking sessions.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy pudding creates a unique, delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
- Soft and Chewy: Enjoy cookies with a soft center and slightly crisp edges that melt in your mouth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dessert or a special event, these cookies will impress everyone.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavor and fun texture make these cookies a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas, mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
For Topping (Optional)
- Chopped nuts or additional chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and instant vanilla pudding mix until evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra treat.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious banana pudding cookies!
Serving Suggestions
These banana pudding cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your dessert experience by pairing them with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- A dollop of whipped cream and sliced bananas for a fresh touch.
- A hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
- Milk or a milk alternative for a classic combo.
Tips for Success
To ensure your banana pudding cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies.
- Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, coconut flakes, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
These banana pudding cookies are not just another dessert—they’re a delightful experience that brings together the flavors we love in a new and exciting way. Perfect for a quick treat or a fun baking project with friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to save this pin for your next baking adventure—you won’t want to miss out on the joy of these deliciously soft cookies!
