Name: Southern Banana Pudding Cookies: 7 Chewy Joys to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Southern Banana Pudding Cookies! They’re like a warm hug in cookie form, bringing all the comforting flavors of the classic banana pudding dessert straight to your kitchen. The moment you take a bite, you’ll be transported back to those sunny days spent at family gatherings, where banana pudding was always the star of the show. I remember my grandma making her famous pudding, and now, I get to enjoy those same delightful flavors in a chewy, soft cookie.

These cookies are bursting with the sweet, fruity goodness of ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla that just makes your heart sing! Trust me, once you start baking these, the sweet aroma will fill your home and have everyone asking, “What’s that amazing smell?” You won’t just be baking cookies; you’ll be creating memories. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion—or just because you deserve a treat!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delightful Southern Banana Pudding Cookies. I promise, it’s a straightforward list, and you probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy for that perfect texture!)
1 cup brown sugar (this adds a lovely depth of flavor)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for that sweet touch)
2 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better—think brown spots for maximum sweetness!)
2 large eggs (room temperature works best)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (don’t skimp on this; it brings everything together)
2 cups all-purpose flour (for structure)
1 teaspoon baking soda (this helps the cookies rise)
1/2 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed (the star ingredient that gives that classic pudding vibe)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but they add a delightful crunch if you like!)

Gather these ingredients, and let’s get ready to create some cookie magic!

How to Prepare Southern Banana Pudding Cookies

Alright, let’s get our hands a little messy and dive into the delightful process of making these Southern Banana Pudding Cookies! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and every step brings you closer to those soft, chewy bites of happiness. Ready? Let’s go!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and perfectly. Plus, the anticipation of that warm oven makes everything feel a little more cozy, don’t you think?

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. I usually use a hand mixer for this, but you can totally do it by hand with a spatula or wooden spoon if you’re feeling strong! Creaming is key here; it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies a light and fluffy texture. You want it to be nice and smooth, so mix until it looks creamy and well-combined.

Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add in those mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. I like to mix these in one at a time to really get everything combined nicely. Make sure to blend it all well—you’re looking for a smooth mixture that smells heavenly! The bananas will bring that essential moisture and sweetness, so don’t rush this part.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine your flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour, which is crucial for a uniform rise. Just whisk them together until they’re well mixed—no lumps allowed!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined. This is super important—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely don’t want that! You should still see a few flour streaks; that’s a good sign!

Step 6: Add Vanilla Wafers and Optional Walnuts

Now for the fun part—fold in those crushed vanilla wafers and chopped walnuts if you’re using them. I usually use a spatula for this, gently folding the mixture so the wafers stay somewhat intact. These little cookies are about to get their signature crunch, and trust me, you’ll want every bit of it!

Step 7: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each one—these cookies will spread just a bit while baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine during this time!

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Once they’re baked to perfection, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them firm up a bit before you move them. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you finally sink your teeth into one of these beauties!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional aspects of these delightful Southern Banana Pudding Cookies. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they can give you a rough idea of what to expect! Each cookie packs a punch of flavor, and here’s how they break down:

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g

These cookies are a treat, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet! You’ll find that the sweet bananas and crunchy vanilla wafers make every bite worth it. Happy baking!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of bananas?

Absolutely! When it comes to bananas for these cookies, you definitely want to go for ripe ones. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Think brown spots and soft texture—those are the ones! If you have a few overripe bananas sitting on your counter, now’s the perfect time to use them up. Trust me, the natural sweetness will shine through in every bite!

How should I store the cookies?

Storing these Southern Banana Pudding Cookies is super easy! Just pop them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap each cookie in plastic wrap or put them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature—easy peasy!

Can I make these cookies without nuts?

Definitely! If you’re looking for a nut-free version, just leave out the walnuts altogether. The cookies will still be deliciously chewy and packed with banana flavor. If you want to add a little something extra, you can toss in some chocolate chips or even dried fruit for a fun twist. The beauty of these cookies is that they’re super versatile—so feel free to get creative!

Tips for Success

Alright, friends, let’s talk tips! I want to make sure your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies turn out absolutely perfect every single time. Here are some of my tried-and-true secrets that I swear by!

Use Ripe Bananas: Seriously, don’t skip this! The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for those with lots of brown spots; that’s where the magic happens!
Don’t Overmix: I can’t stress this enough! When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them soft and chewy—not like little bricks!
Check for Doneness: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look a tad underbaked when you pull them out!
Cool on the Baking Sheet: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack is crucial. This helps them set up just right and makes sure they don’t fall apart on you!
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies! Whether you swap in some chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even coconut, there are endless possibilities to make these cookies uniquely yours!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to baking up a storm! Enjoy the process and, most importantly, the tasty rewards that come with it. Happy baking!

Variations of Southern Banana Pudding Cookies

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Southern Banana Pudding Cookies, let’s have some fun with variations! These cookies are super versatile, so don’t be shy about mixing things up to match your taste buds. Here are some delicious ideas to inspire your next batch:

Nutty Twist: Swap out the walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts for a different crunch. Each nut brings its own unique flavor that can elevate your cookies!
Chocolate Lovers: If you’re a chocolate fanatic like me, add in some chocolate chips or chunks! The combination of banana and chocolate is simply divine—it’s like a match made in dessert heaven!
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. Just a teaspoon of either spice can add a lovely depth to your cookies, making them perfect for fall or winter treats.
Dried Fruits: Consider folding in some dried cranberries, raisins, or even chopped dried apricots for a fruity twist. These add a chewy texture and a pop of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the banana.
Coconut Delight: If you’re a coconut fan, toss in some sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical vibe. It’ll add a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the banana beautifully!
Maple Flavor: For a unique twist, replace some of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup. This will give your cookies a delightful maple flavor and a hint of extra moisture.
Banana Pudding Layer: To really bring the classic dessert vibe to life, layer the baked cookies with a quick banana pudding filling between two cookies. It’s like a sandwich of deliciousness!

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combinations! The beauty of baking is that there’s always room for creativity, so let your imagination run wild. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked up a batch of these scrumptious Southern Banana Pudding Cookies, let’s talk about how to serve them up for maximum enjoyment! Trust me, there are a few delightful pairings that will elevate your cookie experience to new heights.

Milk: You can’t go wrong with a tall glass of cold milk! It’s the classic companion for cookies, and the creamy goodness perfectly balances the sweetness of the banana cookies.
Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent treat, serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm cookie and cold ice cream is simply heavenly—think banana pudding à la mode!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch. You can even flavor it with a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over your cookies for a decadent twist. The rich, buttery flavor of the caramel complements the bananas beautifully!
Fruit Salad: Serve these cookies alongside a refreshing fruit salad. The fresh fruits will add a bright, juicy contrast that pairs perfectly with the dense, chewy cookies.
Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat during cooler months, enjoy your cookies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. The rich chocolate flavor brings a delightful contrast to the banana goodness!

Feel free to get creative with your pairings! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet night at home, these serving suggestions will make your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies even more special. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious Southern Banana Pudding Cookies fresh and tasty! After all that hard work in the kitchen, you’ll want to make sure you can enjoy them for days to come.

To store your cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay nice and soft for up to a week—if they last that long! Seriously, these cookies are so good; you might find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!). If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months in the freezer!

When you’re ready to enjoy those frozen gems, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them warm, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive that lovely chewy texture and make them feel freshly baked again. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they might dry out—nobody wants that!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be all set to savor your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies whenever the craving strikes. Enjoy every last crumb!

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Southern Banana Pudding Cookies: 7 Chewy Joys to Savor