There’s a certain comfort that comes with the sweet aromas of baking, and nothing quite captures that cozy feeling like the scent of Southern Banana Pudding Cookies wafting through my kitchen. These delightful treats bring together the beloved flavors of classic banana pudding and the nostalgia of homemade cookies, creating a unique twist that’s sure to become a family favorite.
I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to use up some very ripe bananas, and let me tell you—what started as a pantry necessity quickly morphed into a baking adventure of delicious proportions. With just a handful of simple ingredients, including soft, buttery goodness and crunchy vanilla wafers, this recipe is not only easy to whip up in about 27 minutes total but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or simply want to treat yourself and your loved ones, these Southern Banana Pudding Cookies make the perfect snack for any occasion. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll be savoring the sweet satisfaction of homemade goodness and wishing you made a double batch!
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 delightful treat in just 27 minutes.
- With their unique combination of flavors reminiscent of classic banana pudding, each cookie is a delicious explosion of sweetness.
- They are versatile enough to impress guests at a party or provide a comforting snack for your family at home.
- The visually appealing cookies, speckled with crushed vanilla wafers and optional walnuts, are not only tasty but also look delightful on any platter.
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter – softened to create a rich, creamy base for the cookies.
- Brown sugar – adds moisture and a caramel flavor that enhances sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – balances the flavor and helps create a nice texture.
- Ripe bananas – mashed to give the cookies their signature banana pudding flavor.
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients together for a perfect cookie structure.
- Vanilla extract – a splash of this enhances the overall taste profile delightfully.
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – the foundation of the cookie texture; ensure it’s measured correctly for best results.
- Baking soda – provides the leavening needed for a light, fluffy cookie.
- Salt – a pinch helps to bring out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
For the Mix-Ins
- Vanilla wafers – crushed to create those delightful cookie chunks reminiscent of banana pudding.
- Chopped walnuts (optional) – adds a lovely crunch, but feel free to omit if you prefer a softer cookie texture.
Let these ingredients come together and create something magical—your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies will be the highlight of any gathering!
How to Make Southern Banana Pudding Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking that ensures your cookies come out golden and delicious.
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Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base full of delightful flavors.
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Mix in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the sweet aroma to fill your kitchen.
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Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. This dry mixture provides the necessary structure to your cookies.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently, just until combined; be careful not to overmix to keep them tender and soft!
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Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and walnuts (if using). This adds a wonderful crunch and flavor reminiscent of classic banana pudding.
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Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on your cookies; you want them soft in the center but firm enough to hold their shape.
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Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set and makes it easier to move them without breaking.
Optional: Drizzle with a simple icing for extra sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own—we encourage creativity in the kitchen!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the same delightful texture. This allows everyone to enjoy these scrumptious cookies without worry.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative in place of unsalted butter. Your cookies will still be rich and flavorful, with a subtle hint of coconut!
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and consider adding sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture that complements the banana flavor without the nutty taste.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips or chunks for an indulgent twist, creating a sweet contrast to the banana and vanilla flavors. Each bite will be a decadent fusion!
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Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor that enhances the cookies’ sweetness. You’ll get that delightful warmth with each bite.
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Banana Boost: For more authentic banana flavor, replace one of the eggs with an additional mashed banana. This will make your cookies extra moist and deliciously banana-filled!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cooled cookies for an irresistible sweet touch. You’ll elevate the flavors to a whole new level of indulgence!
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Fruit Add-ins: Toss in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a fruity twist. This adds a chewy texture and a burst of flavor in every cookie!
Get ready to enjoy delightful variations—these Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are all about making them your own!
What to Serve with Southern Banana Pudding Cookies?
These charming cookies are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing richness with bright flavors. Think of juicy strawberries, bananas, and tangy kiwis for a fruity delight!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a classic combination reminiscent of banana pudding. The cold, smooth texture beautifully complements the warm, chewy cookies for a truly indulgent dessert.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Drizzling a rich chocolate ganache over the cookies introduces a decadent twist. The bittersweet chocolate enhances the flavors and adds a luscious finish that will leave everyone craving more.
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Hot Chocolate: A mug of rich, cozy hot chocolate is the perfect warm drink to enjoy alongside your cookies. The chocolaty goodness pairs beautifully with the banana flavors, creating an inviting treat for chilly evenings.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso offers a robust flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. The caffeine boost also makes it an excellent afternoon snack.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream can transform each cookie into an elegant dessert. It adds a creamy, luscious texture that pairs perfectly with the banana essence.
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Caramel Sauce: Serve these cookies with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for a luxurious touch. The buttery sweetness of the caramel harmonizes with the banana flavor, creating a dreamy dessert experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their fresh flavors and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and bake as instructed. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in a sealed container on the counter for up to 3 days to keep them soft and delicious. Enjoy the ease of having homemade treats ready to enjoy any time!
Storage Tips for Southern Banana Pudding Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, keeping their delightful softness intact.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the cookies in a covered container for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy these cookies warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature before devouring. Enjoy the cozy flavors all over again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Southern Banana Pudding Cookies, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugars.
- Avoid overmixing the dough after adding dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired tenderness.
- When folding in crushed vanilla wafers, do so gently to maintain their texture for delightful chunks in every bite.
- Remember to check your cookies at the 10-minute mark to prevent overbaking, ensuring they retain a soft center while the edges are golden.
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Absolutely! You want to use bananas that are soft with plenty of brown spots. The more brown spots, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Overripe bananas are actually preferred in this recipe as they provide the best texture and sweetness.
How should I store my Southern Banana Pudding Cookies?
Very simply! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them in a covered container where they can last for up to 1 week. Always allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste.
Can I freeze these cookies, and what’s the best method?
Yes! To freeze your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies, start by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together. Freeze them for about 1 hour until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
What can I do if my cookies are turning out too dry?
If you find that your cookies are turning out too dry, it might be due to overmixing the dough or using flour that’s not measured properly. Make sure to measure flour by gently spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off. Also, mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently until just combined to maintain that lovely softness.
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with nut allergies?
Great question! While the Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are delightful for humans, they contain ingredients like bananas and walnuts that may not be suitable for pets. If you’re serving these cookies to someone with nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts—it won’t affect the overall flavor! Always check with the intended consumer about their dietary restrictions for a safe and enjoyable treat.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large ripe bananas mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Mix-Ins
- 1 cup vanilla wafers crushed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
How to Make Southern Banana Pudding Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture; stir gently until combined.
- Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers and walnuts (if using).
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
