If you’re craving a dessert that wraps up the comforting flavors of banana pudding inside a chewy, delightful cookie, you’ve absolutely got to try this Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe. It’s like your favorite Southern classic made portable and perfect for sharing, blending sweet ripe bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and a tender cookie texture into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, potluck, or just because, this recipe will bring smiles and sweet memories to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together beautifully with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in the final taste and texture. From the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture, to the pudding mix that adds a luscious vanilla flavor and soft crumb, every ingredient is essential for that signature Southern comfort.
- 2 medium ripe bananas: These add natural sweetness and moisture, making the cookies soft and fragrant.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies structure without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise subtly and keeps them tender.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a gentle lift for a perfect chewy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in browning for those golden edges.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Gives moisture and a hint of caramel depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cookies with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix: The magic ingredient that makes these cookies extra moist and flavorful.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds to the chewyness.
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional): A little extra indulgence that pairs beautifully with banana.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a light sweetness and lovely presentation touch.
- Whipped cream for serving: Enhances the banana pudding feel with creamy richness.
- Banana slices for garnish: Fresh fruit that brightens and completes each cookie perfectly.
How to Make Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking environment
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan smoothly without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and vanilla pudding mix. Combining these upfront ensures the leavening agents and flavoring are evenly distributed, so every cookie gets a perfect rise and that unmistakable vanilla sweetness.
Step 3: Cream the butter and sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key for that tender crumb and slightly caramelized flavor in the cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate the bananas, egg, and vanilla
Beat in the egg and mashed ripe bananas until everything is well combined, then add the vanilla extract. The bananas are the star of this recipe, so be sure they’re nicely mashed for the best texture and natural sweetness to shine through.
Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is incorporated—overmixing can toughen cookies, so keep it gentle. If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in the chocolate chips here for a wonderful contrast of flavors.
Step 6: Shape and bake the cookies
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers are just set but still soft. After baking, let them cool slightly on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling—this helps the cookies firm up while staying tender inside.
Step 7: Add the finishing touches
Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant, sweet touch. Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh banana slice before serving to complete the Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe experience.
How to Serve Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A little goes a long way with garnishes here. Powdered sugar adds a snowy sweetness that’s both pretty and tasty, while a small dollop of whipped cream brings a smooth creaminess that mirrors the classic banana pudding feel. Top it off with a fresh banana slice to brighten the plate and enhance the banana flavor.
Side Dishes
These cookies are a splendid treat on their own, but if you want to turn dessert into a real Southern-style indulgence, serve them alongside a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For brunch or tea, pair with a cup of rich coffee or sweet tea for that perfect balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these cookies on a pretty platter with small bowls of whipped cream and banana slices for a “build-your-own” banana pudding cookie bar. Another fun idea is to carefully sandwich two cookies with a fluff of whipped cream or a banana pudding-inspired frosting for a dreamy cookie sandwich. Both options are sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy. To maintain freshness longer, consider layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking and preserve texture.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies stay delicious for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature—ready for a spontaneous Southern-inspired treat anytime.
Reheating
For warm, freshly baked taste, reheat cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This will revive their softness and bring out the banana pudding flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are actually perfect because they’re sweeter and mash easily, lending more flavor and moisture to your Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe.
Do I have to use instant vanilla pudding mix?
The instant vanilla pudding mix is what gives the cookies their signature moist and creamy texture, so it’s highly recommended. If you can’t find it, you might try substituting with a similar instant pudding powder, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free butter substitutes and flax egg replacements, but keep in mind it might change the texture and taste. The pudding mix often contains dairy, so look for a vegan alternative or omit if necessary for a better match.
What’s the best way to mash bananas for this recipe?
Use a fork or potato masher to get a smooth, lump-free mash. You want the bananas to blend evenly for consistent moisture and flavor throughout the dough.
Are the chocolate chips necessary?
Chocolate chips are optional but a fantastic addition. They provide a lovely contrast to the banana and vanilla flavors, making the cookies a bit more indulgent and delightful.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe is one of those special finds that combines nostalgia with easy indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply craving something sweet and comforting, these cookies deliver every time. Give them a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself coming back to this Southern classic in cookie form again and again.
Print
Southern Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Southern Banana Pudding Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the creamy, sweet flavors of classic banana pudding in a soft, chewy cookie. Enhanced with vanilla pudding mix and optional chocolate chips, these cookies are perfect for a comforting dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
Wet Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Optional & Garnishes
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Whipped cream for serving
- Banana slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Set this mixture aside to be added later to the wet ingredients.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Bananas: Beat in the egg and mashed ripe bananas until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract to deepen the flavor profile.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft. If using, fold in chocolate chips gently for an extra burst of flavor.
- Form Cookies and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set but still soft.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar. Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of banana for an elegant and tasty finish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Do not overmix the dough once adding the dry ingredients to maintain a soft texture.
- Chocolate chips are optional but add a complementary flavor and texture.
- Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a stronger banana flavor, consider adding a small amount of banana extract.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
