Banana Pudding Cookies Delight: The Perfect Cookie for All Ages 🍪🍌

Introduction

Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Cookies

Banana pudding is a beloved dessert, but imagine turning it into a portable, bite-sized cookie. That’s exactly what this recipe does. The unique combination of ripe bananas, vanilla pudding mix, and the sweetness of marshmallows and chocolate chips creates a flavor profile that’s rich and indulgent. These cookies have a chewy texture, while the subtle crunch of walnuts (if you choose to include them) adds an extra layer of texture that makes every bite delightful.

The versatility of this recipe also makes it a crowd-pleaser. You can swap ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have available in your pantry. For instance, the chocolate chips are optional, but they add a nice touch of richness. You can even make these cookies vegan or gluten-free with a few simple swaps. Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also incredibly flexible to suit all kinds of dietary needs.

But beyond the taste and versatility, these cookies are simply fun to make. Mixing the dough, adding the marshmallows, and seeing the dough come together into a gooey, irresistible mixture is a satisfying experience that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. It’s an easy recipe that guarantees delicious results every time.

Ingredients of Banana Pudding Cookies

To make these delightful Banana Pudding Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Banana Pudding Cookies:

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup softened butter (make sure it’s soft to avoid lumps)
• 1/4 cup vanilla pudding mix (instant pudding mix works best)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegan mini marshmallows (optional)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Necessary Tools

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools:

• Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
• Electric mixer (or a whisk for manual mixing)
• Cookie sheet lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or cookie scoop to portion dough
• Wire rack for cooling the cookies

These basic tools will help ensure that your cookies come out perfectly and that the process goes smoothly.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

One of the best things about these Banana Pudding Cookies is how adaptable they are. Here are a few ingredient swaps and additions to personalize the recipe to your liking:

• Banana Substitute: If you’re not a fan of banana flavor or you don’t have ripe bananas, you can substitute them with 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a different, but still moist, result.
• Vegan Options: To make these cookies vegan, use a non-dairy butter (such as margarine or coconut oil), substitute the regular pudding mix with a vegan version, and make sure the mini marshmallows are vegan-friendly. For an egg-free option, there’s no need to make adjustments, as the bananas provide plenty of moisture.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly to get the right dough consistency, but gluten-free flour works well in this recipe.
• Flavor Variations: You can add extra flavor by incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, comforting twist. If you love coconut, try adding shredded coconut to the dough or topping the cookies with coconut flakes for extra texture.

For another delicious banana treat, check out these Banana Cookies for a soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened dessert!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect Banana Pudding Cookies:

1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick while baking.

2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat them together until the mixture becomes light and creamy. This will help incorporate air into the batter, resulting in soft and chewy cookies.

3️⃣ Add Bananas and Vanilla Extract

Then, mix in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract. The bananas will add moisture and flavor, giving your cookies that unmistakable banana pudding taste.

4️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, vanilla pudding mix, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding them to the wet mixture.

5️⃣ Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

6️⃣ Fold in Marshmallows, Chocolate Chips, and Walnuts

Gently fold in the vegan mini marshmallows, chocolate chips (if using), and walnuts. These add-ins bring extra texture and flavor to the cookies.

7️⃣ Scoop the Dough

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

8️⃣ Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center may appear slightly soft, but that’s perfect for chewy cookies.

9️⃣ Cool the Cookies

Then, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Success of Banana Pudding Cookies

To ensure your Banana Pudding Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal for this recipe.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can cause the cookies to be dense. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
• Check the Cookies Early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking the cookies at around 9 minutes to prevent overbaking.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Pudding Cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to take them to the next level:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful banana pudding-inspired sundae.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress guests.

Storing and Reheating

Banana Pudding Cookies are perfect for storing, and here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value per cookie (based on a 2-inch cookie):

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 6g
• Carbs: 23g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g

FAQs – Banana Pudding Cookies

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

2. Can I make them vegan? Yes! Use vegan butter, vegan mini marshmallows, and vegan vanilla pudding mix.

3. Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if baking from frozen.

4. What if I don’t have mini marshmallows? You can leave them out or substitute with regular marshmallows that are chopped into smaller pieces.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done? The cookies should be golden around the edges, and the centers may still look soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Cookies Delight is a treat that brings the best of banana pudding into a soft, chewy cookie. In addition, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Moreover, if you’re craving a sweet and unique dessert, be sure to try these Banana Cream Pie Cookies for a fun twist on the classic pie!