Introduction
Craving a cookie that’s both nostalgic and unique? Look no further than our Banana Pudding Cookies recipe. These cookies combine the creamy, comforting flavor of banana pudding with the classic crunch of a cookie, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of banana desserts or simply looking for a new cookie recipe to try, these Banana Pudding Cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
To make these scrumptious Banana Pudding Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup instant banana pudding mix (dry)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure your cookies don’t stick.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant banana pudding mix, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies.
6. Fold in Optional Ingredients
If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
7. Shape and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding Cookies
- Use Overripe Bananas: For an extra boost of banana flavor, mash up an overripe banana and mix it into the dough.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like dried fruit or white chocolate chips to customize your cookies.
- Chill the Dough: For a chewier texture, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Cookies
These Banana Pudding Cookies are not just delicious but also bring a fun twist to traditional cookie recipes. The addition of banana pudding mix creates a soft, tender cookie with a unique flavor that’s both sweet and subtly tangy. Plus, the optional mix-ins like walnuts and chocolate chips add extra layers of taste and texture.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to elevate your cookie game, give this Banana Pudding Cookies recipe a try. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its delightful banana flavor and chewy texture, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Serving and Storage Tips for Banana Pudding Cookies
Serving Tips
- Serve Fresh or Warm: Banana Pudding Cookies are delicious right out of the oven or at room temperature. For an extra treat, warm them slightly in the microwave before serving to bring out their soft, chewy texture.
- Pair with Beverages: These cookies go wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a hot tea. For a fun twist, try them with a creamy banana smoothie for an indulgent treat.
- Garnish and Presentation: Enhance the presentation by dusting the cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate. For a more festive touch, consider adding a few banana slices on top or serving them with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Ideal Occasions: Perfect for school lunches, after-school snacks, or as a sweet treat at parties and gatherings. They’re also great for gift-giving—just package them in a decorative tin or cellophane bag for a homemade touch.
Storage Tips
- Keep Fresh: Store your Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week. If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider placing a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between the layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
- For Longer Storage: To keep cookies fresh for an extended period, freeze them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- Thawing Cookies: When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.
- Avoid Over-Baking: If you plan to freeze the cookies, slightly under-bake them to ensure they remain soft and chewy once thawed. They will continue to bake slightly from residual heat after being removed from the oven.
By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Banana Pudding Cookies stay delicious and fresh, making them a treat to enjoy any time you like!
1. Can I use regular pudding mix instead of instant pudding mix?
Answer: For this recipe, it’s best to use instant banana pudding mix as it helps to achieve the desired texture and flavor of the cookies. Regular pudding mix requires cooking and would change the consistency of the dough. Instant pudding mix is designed to be mixed directly into dry ingredients, making it perfect for cookie recipes.
2. How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Answer: To make Banana Pudding Cookies dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan butter or coconut oil. Also, ensure that the instant pudding mix you use is dairy-free, as some brands may contain dairy ingredients. If you need a dairy-free milk substitute for serving, almond milk or oat milk work well.
3. Can I add fresh bananas to the cookie dough?
Answer: Yes, you can add fresh bananas to the dough for an extra banana flavor. If you decide to add fresh mashed bananas, reduce the amount of butter slightly to balance the moisture. About 1/4 cup of mashed banana should be sufficient. Just be aware that this may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies softer.
4. How should I store leftover cookies?
Answer: Store leftover Banana Pudding Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen cookies can be stored for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.