Introduction
There’s something special about desserts that feel like home. The kind that instantly takes you back—maybe to a warm kitchen, laughter in the background, and the sweet smell of bananas and vanilla filling the air. If you’ve ever loved banana pudding, you already know that comforting, creamy flavor that’s hard to forget.
Now imagine that same nostalgic taste wrapped inside a soft, chewy cookie you can hold in your hand.
That’s exactly what Banana Pudding Cookies deliver.
When you bake these cookies, you’re not just making another dessert—you’re creating something that feels personal. Something that makes people pause after the first bite and say, “Wow… what is this?” And the best part? You don’t need fancy skills or hard-to-find ingredients. You just need a few basics, a ripe banana or two, and the willingness to treat yourself.
What Are Banana Pudding Cookies?
A Sweet Twist on a Classic Dessert
Banana pudding has been a beloved comfort dessert for generations. Creamy layers of pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers have made it a favorite at family gatherings and holidays.
Banana Pudding Cookies take that same flavor and transform it into something new—soft cookies with a rich banana taste, hints of vanilla, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
When you bite into one, you’ll notice:
- A soft and chewy center
- Subtle banana sweetness
- Creamy vanilla notes
- A slight crunch from crushed wafers or add-ins
It’s like banana pudding—but easier to share and even easier to crave.
Why Banana Pudding Cookies Are So Popular
If you’re wondering why these cookies are everywhere lately, here’s why:
- Simple to make – No complicated steps
- Perfect for beginners – Hard to mess up
- Comforting flavor – Nostalgic and familiar
- Social media friendly – Soft, golden, and irresistible in photos
- Great for any occasion – From casual snacks to special events
Once you make them, you’ll understand why people keep coming back to this recipe.
Ingredients for Banana Pudding Cookies
Essential Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to get started:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe bananas | 2 medium | Natural sweetness and moisture |
| Vanilla pudding mix | 1 box | Soft texture and rich flavor |
| Butter (softened) | 1/2 cup | Creamy base |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetness |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | Adds moisture and depth |
| Egg | 1 | Structure |
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups | Forms the dough |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Helps cookies rise |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| White chocolate chips | 1 cup | Sweet, creamy bites |
| Crushed vanilla wafers | 1 cup | Classic banana pudding touch |
Optional Add-Ins
Want to make your cookies unique? Try these:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Dark or milk chocolate chips
- Caramel drizzle
- Coconut flakes
You can customize these cookies depending on your taste—or whatever you have in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Pudding Cookies
Preparation
Before you start mixing, set yourself up for success:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Mash your bananas until smooth
The riper the bananas, the better your cookies will taste.
Mixing the Dough
Follow these steps carefully:
- Cream butter and sugars
Mix until light and fluffy - Add egg and vanilla extract
Stir until fully combined - Mix in mashed bananas and pudding mix
This is where the magic starts - Combine dry ingredients separately
Flour + baking soda - Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture
- Fold in chocolate chips and crushed wafers
The dough should be soft and slightly sticky—that’s exactly what you want.
Baking Instructions
- Scoop dough onto the baking sheet
- Leave space between each cookie
- Bake for 10–12 minutes
- Let cookies cool for a few minutes before removing
Pro Baking Tips
- Use overripe bananas for deeper flavor
- Don’t overbake—they should look slightly soft in the center
- Chill dough for 20–30 minutes if you want thicker cookies
Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding Cookies Every Time
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Watch out for these:
- Using firm, yellow bananas (not sweet enough)
- Overmixing the dough (makes cookies dense)
- Baking too long (dries them out)
- Skipping pudding mix (you lose the signature texture)
Expert Tips
If you want bakery-level results:
- Add extra crushed wafers on top before baking
- Sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt for balance
- Use parchment paper for even baking
- Let cookies rest—they taste better after cooling
Small details make a big difference.
Variations of Banana Pudding Cookies
One of the best things about Banana Pudding Cookies is how flexible they are.
Classic Southern Style
- Vanilla wafers
- Extra banana flavor
- Soft and simple
Chocolate Banana Pudding Cookies
- Add cocoa powder
- Use chocolate chips instead of white chocolate
Gluten-Free Banana Pudding Cookies
- Replace flour with gluten-free blend
- Make sure pudding mix is gluten-free
Vegan Version
- Use plant-based butter
- Replace egg with flax egg or applesauce
You can adjust the recipe based on your diet or preferences without losing the magic.
Storage and Shelf Life
How to Store Banana Pudding Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh:
- Store in an airtight container
- Keep at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week
Can You Freeze Banana Pudding Cookies?
Yes, and it works perfectly:
- Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
- Freeze dough balls and bake fresh anytime
Just thaw and enjoy whenever you need a sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Cookies
These cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience.
Here’s why you’ll keep making them:
- Soft and chewy texture
- Rich banana flavor
- Easy, beginner-friendly recipe
- Customizable ingredients
- Perfect for sharing
They’re the kind of cookies people ask you about. The kind you bring to gatherings—and leave with an empty plate.
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Serve
Make your cookies even better:
- Serve warm with a glass of milk
- Pair with vanilla ice cream
- Enjoy with coffee or tea
Presentation Ideas
If you’re sharing online or with guests:
- Stack cookies for a bakery look
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar
- Drizzle caramel or chocolate
A little presentation goes a long way.
FAQ About Banana Pudding Cookies
What makes Banana Pudding Cookies soft?
The pudding mix and ripe bananas add moisture, giving Banana Pudding Cookies their soft, chewy texture.
Can you make Banana Pudding Cookies without pudding mix?
You can, but the texture won’t be the same. The pudding mix gives Banana Pudding Cookies their signature softness.
How ripe should bananas be for Banana Pudding Cookies?
The best bananas are very ripe with brown spots. They’re sweeter and mash easily.
Can you freeze Banana Pudding Cookies dough?
Yes, freezing dough is a great option. You can bake fresh Banana Pudding Cookies anytime.
How do you keep Banana Pudding Cookies from spreading?
Chill the dough before baking and avoid using overly soft butter.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Cookies aren’t just another dessert—they’re the perfect mix of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. When you bake them, you’re creating something that feels homemade in the best way possible. Soft, sweet, and full of nostalgia, they have a way of turning an ordinary day into something a little more special.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert baker to get it right. You just need the right ingredients, a little patience, and a love for good food.
So why not give it a try?
Banana Pudding Cookies: The Ultimate Soft, Creamy Dessert You’ll Crave Again and Again
Course: Irresistible DessertsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy24
Cookies15
minutes10
minutes25
minutesIngredients
Ripe bananas
2 medium
Natural sweetness and moistureVanilla pudding mix
1 box
Soft texture and rich flavorButter (softened)
1/2 cup
Creamy baseSugar
3/4 cup
SweetnessBrown sugar
1/4 cup
Adds moisture and depthEgg
1
StructureAll-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups
Forms the doughBaking soda
1 tsp
Helps cookies riseVanilla extract
1 tsp
Enhances flavorWhite chocolate chips
1 cup
Sweet, creamy bitesCrushed vanilla wafers
1 cup
Classic banana pudding touch
Directions
- Preparation
Before you start mixing, set yourself up for success:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F)
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
Mash your bananas until smooth
The riper the bananas, the better your cookies will taste. - Mixing the Dough
Follow these steps carefully:
Cream butter and sugars
Mix until light and fluffy
Add egg and vanilla extract
Stir until fully combined
Mix in mashed bananas and pudding mix
This is where the magic starts
Combine dry ingredients separately
Flour + baking soda
Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture
Fold in chocolate chips and crushed wafers
The dough should be soft and slightly sticky—that’s exactly what you want. - Baking Instructions
Scoop dough onto the baking sheet
Leave space between each cookie
Bake for 10–12 minutes
Let cookies cool for a few minutes before removing
Recipe Video
Notes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Watch out for these:
Using firm, yellow bananas (not sweet enough)
Overmixing the dough (makes cookies dense)
Baking too long (dries them out)
Skipping pudding mix (you lose the signature texture)
Call to Action
If you’re ready to impress your family, grow your recipe collection, or just treat yourself—go ahead and make these Banana Pudding Cookies today.
And when you do, don’t keep them to yourself—share them, post them, and let others enjoy the magic too.

