The Best Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Irresistible!

If you love banana pudding cookies, you’re in for a treat! This recipe combines all the flavors of classic banana pudding—sweet bananas, creamy pudding mix, and crunchy vanilla wafers—into a soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible cookie. Whether you’re a fan of traditional banana pudding or just looking for a unique cookie recipe, these banana pudding cookies are sure to become a favorite.

What makes these cookies stand out? They’re packed with real banana flavor, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of vanilla and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Plus, they’re super easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, so you don’t need to be a pro baker to whip up a batch.

These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just craving a comforting homemade dessert. Best of all, they come together in less than 30 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying treat.

Let’s dive into this easy banana pudding cookie recipe and discover why it’s a must-try dessert for all cookie lovers!

Why You’ll Love These Banana Pudding Cookies

Banana pudding lovers, get ready to fall in love with these banana pudding cookies! They capture the nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding—rich banana sweetness, smooth vanilla pudding, and the crunch of vanilla wafers—all in a soft, chewy, and delicious cookie. If you’re looking for a unique twist on a traditional dessert, these cookies are the perfect choice.

Here’s why you’ll absolutely love this easy banana pudding cookie recipe:

Soft, Chewy, and Full of Banana Flavor

One of the best things about these cookies is their soft and chewy texture. Thanks to the combination of banana pudding mix, mashed bananas, and butter, every bite is moist and rich, with just the right amount of chewiness. The natural banana flavor shines through, perfectly balanced by the sweet vanilla notes from the pudding mix and crunchy bits of vanilla wafers.

Unlike some banana cookies that turn out cakey or dry, this recipe ensures that your cookies stay moist and tender. The secret? The right balance of ingredients and a few simple baking tips (which we’ll cover later in this post). If you’re a fan of soft-baked cookies, these banana pudding cookies will quickly become your new favorite treat!

Quick and Easy to Make at Home

No complicated techniques or fancy equipment are needed—these banana pudding cookies are incredibly simple to make! All you need are a few basic ingredients, a mixing bowl, and a baking sheet.

The dough comes together in minutes, making this the perfect last-minute dessert for when you’re short on time but still want something homemade and delicious. Plus, since the recipe uses instant banana pudding mix, you get that signature creamy banana flavor without the hassle of extra steps.

Even if you’re a beginner baker, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a batch of these cookies. Just mix, scoop, bake, and enjoy!

Perfect for Any Occasion – Parties, Holidays & More

These cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re also versatile and crowd-pleasing! Whether you’re baking for:

• A family gathering or holiday party
• A weekend dessert to enjoy with coffee or milk
• A sweet treat to pack in lunchboxes or take on-the-go
• A cookie swap or bake sale

They’ll always be a hit! Their beautiful golden color and irresistible aroma make them stand out on a dessert table, and their classic banana pudding flavor brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia.

You can even dress them up by adding white chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or a dollop of whipped cream to make them extra special for holidays or birthdays. No matter the occasion, these banana pudding cookies will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Banana Pudding Cookies

Making the perfect banana pudding cookies starts with the right ingredients. This simple recipe requires a few key items that come together to create soft, chewy, and flavor-packed cookies. Whether you’re baking for yourself or a crowd, these ingredients are easy to find and come together quickly!

Here’s everything you’ll need:

Key Ingredients for the Best Banana Pudding Cookies

• Mashed Ripe Bananas: The star ingredient! Ripe bananas are sweet, soft, and full of flavor, making them the perfect base for these cookies. Make sure they’re overripe (with brown spots) to ensure maximum flavor and sweetness. The more ripe the banana, the more moisture it will add to the dough, which contributes to that delicious soft texture.
• Vanilla Wafers: For the classic banana pudding crunch! Crushed vanilla wafers provide a light, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie. If you can’t find vanilla wafers, you can substitute with other crunchy cookies, but the vanilla flavor is key to achieving the right taste.
• Banana Pudding Mix: This is the secret ingredient that gives the cookies their signature creamy banana flavor. Using instant banana pudding mix ensures that your cookies have that indulgent, smooth taste, without any extra fuss.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal because it adds richness and moisture to the cookies. Be sure to soften it to room temperature before mixing to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
• Sugar: Both granulated sugar and brown sugar are used in this recipe. The granulated sugar provides sweetness, while the brown sugar adds a subtle caramel flavor and moisture to the cookies.
• Eggs: Large eggs are the binding agent for your dough and help give the cookies structure.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for the dough. It helps give the cookies a stable structure while still maintaining that soft texture.
• Baking Soda: A small amount of baking soda helps the cookies spread slightly and rise, ensuring the perfect texture.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

While the core ingredients make these cookies amazing on their own, feel free to customize the recipe with a few optional add-ins:

• White Chocolate Chips: These add a rich, sweet contrast to the banana and vanilla flavors. If you’re a fan of chocolate-banana combinations, you’ll love this addition!
• Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, feel free to skip them.
• Caramel Drizzle: For a special touch, add a caramel drizzle on top of each cookie after baking. This adds a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the banana flavor perfectly.
• Shredded Coconut: If you like a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut for a chewy texture and extra flavor.
• Substitute for Banana Pudding Mix: If you can’t find banana pudding mix, you can substitute with vanilla pudding mix for a slightly different but still delicious flavor. You can also make your own banana-flavored pudding from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous!

Ingredient Notes & Tips

• Choosing the Best Bananas: The riper the banana, the better your cookies will taste. Look for bananas with brown spots or even a mostly brown peel—this means they’re at their sweetest and softest. Don’t use bananas that are too green, as they will be more firm and less flavorful.
• Selecting the Right Pudding Mix: While instant banana pudding mix is the best option for this recipe, be sure to choose one that’s high-quality for the best results. Some brands might have additional flavors or colors, so stick with classic banana pudding mix for a more authentic taste.
• Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is room temperature (not melted or too cold) when mixing the dough. This ensures it blends smoothly with the sugars and helps create a softer, chewier cookie texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, which you definitely want to avoid!

Step-by-Step Guide – How to Make Banana Pudding Cookies

Making banana pudding cookies is simple and fun! With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a batch of these delicious treats ready to enjoy in no time. Follow this guide to create soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies every time.

Preparing the Cookie Dough

The key to making the perfect banana pudding cookies is getting the dough right. Here’s how to start:

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, start by creaming together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, ensuring soft cookies.
2. Add the Eggs and Banana Pudding Mix: Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add in the egg and banana pudding mix. Beat until fully incorporated. The banana pudding mix adds richness and flavor that will set your cookies apart.
3. Add the Mashed Bananas: Gently fold in your mashed ripe bananas. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light and airy. The mashed bananas provide the perfect amount of moisture, making these cookies soft and chewy.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl, stirring until just combined. Overmixing the dough could result in dense cookies, so stop mixing as soon as everything is incorporated.
5. Optional Add-ins: If you’re adding extras like white chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut, fold them in now. These add-ins add flavor and texture to your cookies, but the base dough should be your focus.

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to shape and bake the cookies:

1. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough. For medium-sized cookies, scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Roll the dough into a ball with your hands, or simply drop the dough onto the baking sheet. If you prefer slightly larger cookies, use a bit more dough—just adjust the baking time accordingly.
2. Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on a lined or greased baking sheet. The cookies will spread slightly while baking, so be sure to leave some space between each.
3. Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers remain slightly soft. They’ll firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and cookie size.
4. Don’t Overbake: The key to soft and chewy cookies is not overbaking. Pull them out of the oven as soon as the edges turn golden, even if the centers still look a little undercooked. They’ll continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

Cooling and Storing Tips

Once your banana pudding cookies are baked to perfection, it’s time to cool them and store them so they stay soft and fresh.

1. Cooling the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to set and firm up before transferring them to a cooling rack. After 5 minutes, use a spatula to carefully move the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This ensures they don’t get soggy from the residual heat.
2. Storing the Cookies: To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. Adding a piece of bread or a damp paper towel to the container can help maintain their moisture and softness. If you prefer, you can also store them in the refrigerator for even longer shelf life.
3. Freezing for Later: These cookies freeze really well! To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to get them soft and gooey again.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a batch of banana pudding cookies that stay fresh, soft, and irresistible for days!

Tips for the Perfect Banana Pudding Cookies

To ensure your banana pudding cookies come out soft, chewy, and absolutely delicious, here are a few expert tips and tricks. These simple adjustments will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time, ensuring your cookies are always a hit!

How to Get the Perfect Soft & Chewy Texture

Achieving that soft, chewy texture that makes these cookies so irresistible is all about using the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s how you can make sure your cookies stay soft and chewy:

1. Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the sugars. This helps create the perfect base for the dough, ensuring the cookies are tender and not too hard. Avoid using melted butter, as it can make the cookies spread too much during baking, resulting in thinner cookies.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix only until everything is just combined. Overmixing the dough activates the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tougher cookies. For soft and chewy cookies, aim for minimal mixing once you add the dry ingredients.
3. Add Extra Egg Yolk: If you want even chewier cookies, try adding an extra egg yolk. The additional fat from the yolk helps maintain moisture and creates a more tender, chewy texture.
4. Use All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour works best for achieving the perfect balance between texture and structure in these cookies. If you substitute with a different type of flour, the cookies may turn out drier or crumblier.
5. Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have the time, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help improve the texture. Chilled dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much and results in thicker, chewier cookies.

Preventing Cookies from Becoming Too Soft or Dry

While it’s great to have soft and chewy cookies, you don’t want them to end up too moist or too dry. Finding the right balance of moisture is essential when working with bananas. Here’s how you can avoid these common problems:

1. Balance the Moisture from Bananas: Ripe bananas can add a lot of moisture to your cookies. If the bananas are too overripe or watery, your dough can become too loose, and the cookies may end up too soft. Be sure to drain any excess liquid from your mashed bananas before adding them to the dough. This will help you maintain the right consistency.
2. Measure the Flour Accurately: Too much flour can make the cookies dry, while too little can make them too soft. Always measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This ensures that you don’t end up with too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
3. Check Your Baking Time: If you bake the cookies for too long, they can become too dry and crumbly. On the other hand, if you don’t bake them long enough, they may remain too soft and undercooked. Keep an eye on them while they’re in the oven and remember that they’ll continue to cook slightly after you take them out, so avoid overbaking them.
4. Add More Butter if Needed: If the dough seems too dry, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter or another mashed banana to provide more moisture. This will help the cookies stay soft, chewy, and flavorful.

Storing & Freezing for Long-Lasting Freshness

To ensure your banana pudding cookies stay fresh, soft, and delicious, proper storage is key. Here’s how you can store them for the best results:

1. Store in an Airtight Container: After the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps preserve their soft, chewy texture for up to 5 days. If you don’t have an airtight container, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep moisture in.
2. Add a Slice of Bread for Extra Softness: A simple trick to keep cookies soft longer is to add a slice of bread to the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb excess moisture and help prevent the cookies from becoming too dry. Replace the bread slice as needed to maintain freshness.
3. Freezing Cookies for Later: If you want to keep your cookies for a longer time, freezing is the best option. After baking, let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours, or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to get them soft again.
4. Freezing Cookie Dough: If you want to bake the cookies fresh later, you can freeze the dough! Scoop the dough into cookie balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just place them directly on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

With these tips, your banana pudding cookies will stay soft, chewy, and delicious for days! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or a few days later—either way, they’re always a hit.

Variations & Serving Suggestions of Banana Pudding Cookies

While these banana pudding cookies are delicious on their own, you can easily elevate them with a few fun twists and creative serving ideas. Whether you’re looking to serve them at a party or enjoy them as a special treat, these variations and suggestions will make your cookies even more irresistible!

Banana Pudding Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Take your banana pudding cookies to the next level by turning them into a cool, creamy ice cream sandwich! This variation is perfect for hot summer days or for anyone who loves a combination of cookies and ice cream.

1. Choose Your Ice Cream: Start by selecting a flavor that pairs well with banana. Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, but you can also use cinnamon or caramel ice cream for a fun twist.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Take two banana pudding cookies and place a generous scoop of ice cream in between. Gently press the cookies together, making sure the ice cream spreads evenly around the edges.
3. Freeze for a Firmer Texture: For the best results, freeze the assembled sandwiches for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the ice cream firm up and keeps the cookies from getting too soft.
4. Add Fun Toppings: To add some extra texture and flavor, roll the edges of the sandwich in crushed vanilla wafers, chocolate chips, or sprinkles.

Banana pudding cookie ice cream sandwiches are a delightful and creative way to enjoy these cookies in a whole new way!

Serving with Whipped Cream or Banana Slices

If you’re looking to elevate the banana pudding cookie experience, try pairing them with whipped cream or fresh banana slices for added flavor and a more sophisticated presentation.

1. Whipped Cream: Serve each cookie with a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top. You can even pipe the whipped cream onto the cookies for a more elegant touch. This adds a light, airy texture that perfectly complements the soft, chewy cookies.
2. Banana Slices: For a true banana pudding experience, top your cookies with fresh banana slices. The natural sweetness and creamy texture of the bananas will pair wonderfully with the flavors in the cookies. You can also layer the cookies and bananas in a dessert glass to create a fun banana pudding-inspired parfait.
3. Banana Pudding Parfait: Layer cookie crumbs, banana slices, and whipped cream in a glass to create a banana pudding parfait. It’s a fun and creative way to serve your cookies and a great choice for parties or special events.

These additions turn your cookies into a complete dessert experience, perfect for impressing guests or just indulging in a little extra luxury.

Why These Banana Pudding Cookies Will Become Your New Favorite Treat

In conclusion, banana pudding cookies are the ultimate combination of nostalgic flavor and irresistible texture. With their soft, chewy centers, hints of banana, and the perfect balance of sweetness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or taking things up a notch with creative variations like ice cream sandwiches or caramel drizzles, these cookies offer endless opportunities for delicious fun!

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity—they’re easy to make, require only a few ingredients, and are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, they bring the comforting flavors of classic banana pudding to the cookie form, making them perfect for anyone who loves this dessert. Whether you’re baking them for a special event, a casual treat, or simply because you’re craving something sweet, these cookies are a guaranteed hit.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and bake up a batch of these mouthwatering banana pudding cookies today. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies are sure to become your new favorite treat!