There’s something irresistibly comforting about the combination of bananas and cookies, especially when you bring a classic Southern treat into the mix. One afternoon, as I was sifting through my pantry, the aroma of ripe bananas caught my attention and prompted a delightful culinary adventure. Suddenly, I found myself whisking together soft butter and brown sugar, ready to create the ultimate Southern Banana Pudding Cookies.
These cookies meld the warmth of home-baked goodness with the nostalgic flavor of banana pudding. With just a handful of ingredients and an easy, straightforward process, you’ll have a treat that not only bakes up in under 30 minutes but also brings smiles to your entire family. Perfect for fending off boredom from fast food and impressing anyone with a sweet tooth, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Southern Banana Pudding Cookies
- These Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.
- The delightful blend of banana and vanilla wafer flavors delivers a nostalgic taste that will instantly transport you to your childhood.
- Their versatility means you can customize them with optional nuts or even incorporate chocolate chunks for added richness.
- Plus, they look absolutely irresistible with their golden edges and soft centers, making them a perfect treat for any gathering.
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – Ensure it’s softened for easy creaming to create that rich, tender texture.
• Brown sugar – Brings moisture and a deep caramel flavor to your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and gives the cookies a lovely crisp edge.
• Ripe bananas – The star ingredient, their natural sweetness and moisture is essential for that delicious banana flavor.
• Large eggs – Help bind the ingredients together, giving the cookies a soft, chewy consistency.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
For the Dry Ingredients
• All-purpose flour – The base of the cookies; spoon it lightly into your measuring cup for accurate results.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent that helps cookies rise slightly for a softer texture.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the mix.
For the Mix-Ins
• Vanilla wafers – Crush them for that signature pudding twist; they add a delightful crunch to your cookies.
• Chopped walnuts (optional) – Introduce a nutty flavor and extra texture, though you can swap them out for pecans if you prefer.
How to Make Southern Banana Pudding Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly, creating that perfect golden edge and soft center we all love.
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Cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until it’s fluffy and light. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or whisk.
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Add the ripe mashed bananas, large eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until everything is well combined and smooth. The banana should blend in beautifully, adding moisture and flavor.
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Combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt—in another bowl. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the dough.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. It’s okay to have a few lumps; do not overmix or your cookies may turn out tough!
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Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and optional chopped walnuts, if using. This adds that delicious crunch and classic pudding flavor to your cookies.
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Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking; you want soft, chewy centers.
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up slightly while maintaining their soft texture.
Optional: Drizzle with a little chocolate for an indulgent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Southern Banana Pudding Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to retain their delectable softness.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps maintain freshness without drying them out.
Freezer: Freeze individual cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before indulging.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to step 6, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together. For even more convenience, you can scoop the dough onto your baking sheet and freeze the cookie mounds individually for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the frozen dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven, and you’ll enjoy cookies just as delicious as if they were freshly made!
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies, adding your own signature touch for delightful surprises!
- Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts to keep it nut-free, or substitute with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips for an indulgent pairing with the banana flavor. The rich chocolate melts into each bite, making it irresistible!
- Oatmeal Twist: Substitute 1 cup of flour with rolled oats for a chewy texture that complements the bananas beautifully.
- Spiced Banana: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the banana goodness.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of regular butter and eggs for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Tropical Flair: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a delightful tropical twist that transports you straight to paradise!
- Fruit Medley: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and a chewy texture that beautifully complements the banana.
- Zesty Lemon: Stir in the zest of one lemon into the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bananas.
Each variation opens up a whole new world of flavors and textures, ensuring each batch of cookies is uniquely delicious!
What to Serve with Southern Banana Pudding Cookies?
Nothing says comfort like a delightful spread alongside your freshly baked cookies, each bite bursting with sweetness and nostalgia.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the warm flavors of the cookies, creating a decadent dessert experience. Scoops of this classic treat melt beautifully when paired with warm cookies.
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Cold Glass of Milk: There’s nothing like a classic! A cold glass of milk offers the perfect sip to wash down your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies while enhancing the banana flavor.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over these cookies adds an indulgent twist, complementing their banana flavor with a luscious, buttery sweetness that’s hard to resist.
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Chocolate Chip Scones: The crumbly texture and rich chocolate blend flawlessly with the soft, chewy cookies, making for a lovely tea-time pairing. Together, they create a bountiful spread for any gathering.
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Fruit Salad: Offer a refreshing contrast with a vibrant fruit salad. The bright flavors and textures of seasonal fruits lighten your dessert table, balancing the richness of the cookies.
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Herbal Iced Tea: A chilled herbal iced tea, perhaps with hints of mint or lemon, refreshes the palate and complements the sweet, rich cookies for a delightful combination that’s perfect for warm days.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate your cookie experience. It adds a light, airy quality that makes each bite even more delightful.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee, especially with nutty or chocolate notes, enhances the warm flavors of the cookies, making it a cozy pairing that’s perfect for afternoons or evenings.
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Chocolate Drizzle: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a chocolate drizzle over your cookies. The rich chocolate enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful touch to your cookie presentation.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature butter for creaming to achieve a light and fluffy texture in your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies.
- Be sure to mash your ripe bananas thoroughly for even dispersion and maximum flavor throughout the cookie dough.
- When mixing your dry ingredients, whisk them together first to ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed for consistent rise.
- Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking, and remove them when they’re just golden at the edges for the perfect soft, chewy consistency.
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bananas for the cookies?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are mostly yellow with a few brown spots; this means they’re perfectly ripe and packed with natural sweetness. Overripe bananas with dark spots are also great as they mash easily and incorporate more flavor into your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies.
How should I store my Southern Banana Pudding Cookies?
For room temperature storage, place the cookies in an airtight container, and they’ll stay deliciously soft for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, storing them in the fridge will extend freshness for up to a week. Just make sure they remain well-sealed to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Southern Banana Pudding Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until firm (about 1-2 hours). After that, transfer them to a zip-top bag labeled with the date. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick treat.
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
Very good question! If your dough feels crumbly, try adding a splash of milk or an additional mashed banana, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a softer consistency. Remember, it’s okay to have some lumps when mixing, but a well-hydrated dough helps create that perfect chewy texture.
Are these cookies safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
While the Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are great for people, they’re not suitable for pets. Keep in mind that they’re made with ingredients like butter and sugars that can be harmful to dogs. If there are nut allergies, you can absolutely skip the walnuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free option! Always check for allergens in your specific ingredient brands.
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Spoon
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 ripe bananas mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure recommended
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mix-Ins
- 1 cup vanilla wafers crushed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until it’s fluffy and light. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ripe mashed bananas, large eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined and smooth.
- Combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt—in another bowl.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and optional chopped walnuts, if using.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
