The moment I took my first bite of these Banana Cream Pie Cookies, I was instantly transported back to sun-filled summer afternoons, devouring slices of the classic pie. Now, this delightful handheld treat brings that nostalgic flavor into cookie form! With a wonderfully soft and buttery cookie base topped with luscious banana pudding cream and a sprinkle of Nilla wafer crumbs, these cookies are true showstoppers. They’re not only a quick and easy dessert option but also perfect for sharing at potlucks or cozy gatherings. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself, these Banana Cream Pie Cookies will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. Ready to bake some scrumptious memories? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Banana Cream Pie Cookies So Irresistible?
Nostalgic Delight: Each bite brings back the comforting taste of classic banana cream pie.
Quick to Prepare: They come together swiftly, making them a fantastic option when you need a dessert in a hurry.
Versatile Treat: Feel free to customize with variations, like using chocolate pudding or adding nuts for extra crunch!
Great for Sharing: Perfect for potlucks or gatherings, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Chilled Perfection: Enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat that’s hard to resist!
Try them alongside my Strawberry Banana Pudding for an irresistible combo that will wow your guests.
Banana Cream Pie Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; measuring accurately ensures perfect results.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for added depth.
• Butter – Creates a rich, buttery flavor for a tender texture; use unsalted for better control over the sweetness.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; room temperature eggs mix in more evenly for fluffier cookies.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; use banana extract if you desire a more intense banana taste.
For the Topping
• Instant Banana Pudding Mix – Essential for achieving that creamy banana flavor; you can swap it with vanilla pudding mix if needed.
• Whipped Cream/Cool Whip – Provides lightness and stability to the topping; homemade whipped cream adds a wonderful touch.
• Nilla Wafers – Adds that signature crunch and flavor; crushed graham crackers can work for a different texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Banana Cream Pie Cookies will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden edge. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets lined with parchment paper for easy cookie transfer.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and other dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Incorporate the room temperature eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined before gently folding in the dry ingredients to create a soft dough.
Step 3: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Using a #24 scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Gently flatten the dough balls slightly with your fingers, which helps them bake evenly. Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set.
Step 4: Cool the Cookies
Once the cookies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Cool completely on the rack to prevent the filling from melting when applied later.
Step 5: Make the Banana Cream Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the instant banana pudding mix with the whipped cream and whisk until smooth and creamy. This luscious topping will bring the classic flavor of Banana Cream Pie to your cookies. For best results, refrigerate the mixture for about 10 minutes to firm up before assembly.
Step 6: Assemble the Cookies
Once your cookies are completely cooled and the banana cream topping has set, it’s time to assemble! Generously spoon the banana pudding cream onto the tops of half the cookies and gently press another cookie onto each filled one to create delightful sandwiches.
Step 7: Garnish with Nilla Wafers
Finishing touches are essential! Sprinkle crushed Nilla wafers on top of the banana cream-filled cookies for that signature crunch and flavor reminiscent of banana cream pie. This step adds texture and enhances their visual appeal, making your Banana Cream Pie Cookies even more tempting.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Place the assembled cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to firm up. Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert at gatherings or simply enjoy as a delightful treat that brings nostalgic flavors to life.
Expert Tips for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for the all-purpose flour to avoid dense cookies; accurate measurements yield the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the dough to ensure a soft, chewy texture. Gently combine dry and wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cookies for at least 30 minutes. This helps the banana cream topping to firm up and enhances flavors.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using, as this helps them blend better and leads to a fluffier cookie.
- Crushed Wafer Garnish: Add crushed Nilla wafers right before serving to keep their crunchiness. This adds that classic flavor to your Banana Cream Pie Cookies.
- Storage Tip: Store any leftover assembled cookies in the refrigerator and consume them within 2 days due to the perishable topping.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Fridge: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness; the creamy topping needs refrigeration due to its perishable nature.
Freezer: Freeze unassembled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding the banana cream topping.
Make-Ahead: You can bake the cookie bases ahead of time and keep them in an airtight container for up to 1 week; just assemble with the topping just before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, briefly microwave the plain cookies for about 10-15 seconds before adding the banana cream for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Cream Pie Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can bake the cookie bases up to 3 days in advance—just let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to retain their softness. The banana cream topping can be made up to 24 hours ahead; simply mix the pudding with whipped cream and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, just spoon the banana cream onto the cooled cookie bases, sprinkle with crushed Nilla wafers, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort! This prep-ahead strategy ensures your cookies are just as delicious when it’s time to share.
Banana Cream Pie Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations for the Banana Cream Pie Cookies and make them your own!
- Larger Cookies: Use a larger scoop for bigger cookies, adjusting baking time to about 12-15 minutes for a perfect bake.
- Pudding in Dough: Skip the topping and mix instant pudding directly into the cookie dough for an intense banana flavor within the cookie itself. It’s a whimsical twist that will surprise your taste buds!
- Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and extra flavor, enhancing the richness of your cookies.
- Chocolate Lovers: Instead of vanilla or banana pudding, try using chocolate pudding mix for a uniquely delicious twist; it pairs beautifully with the buttery cookie base.
- Banana Chamomile Infusion: For a soothing flavor boost, add a few teaspoons of chamomile tea-infused milk to the dough. This will provide a calming undertone to your cookies.
- Mini Sandwiches: Create delightful mini sandwiches by filling two smaller cookies with banana cream and rolling the edges in crushed Nilla wafers for an adorable party treat.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor that enhances the banana pudding cream beautifully.
- Fruity Twists: Consider adding diced strawberries or blueberries to the banana cream topping for a fresh and fruity twist that lightens up the cookies. Pair them with Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies for an ultimate dessert display!
Experimenting with these variations allows you to tailor your Banana Cream Pie Cookies to suit your taste, making every baking adventure uniquely delicious!
What to Serve with Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies is just the beginning; let’s elevate your dessert experience with some perfect pairings!
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Chocolate Milkshake: A thick, creamy shake pairs wonderfully with the banana flavors, creating a nostalgic treat that’s hard to resist.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee complements the sweetness and adds a comforting depth, perfect for an afternoon snack.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream sits beautifully alongside the cookies, melting into the banana cream topping for a decadent treat.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy coconut cream adds a tropical twist, enhancing the cookie’s banana flavor while staying dairy-free.
- Banana Smoothie: A chilled banana smoothie amplifies the flavor experience, making a delightful addition for banana lovers.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The cool mint flavor provides a refreshing palate cleanse after each sweet bite of the cookies, balancing your dessert table perfectly.
- Lemonade: A tangy lemonade offsets the sweetness beautifully, leaving your taste buds refreshed and invigorated.
- Chia Seed Pudding: The texture of chia pudding offers a nutritious option that’s creamy and blends well with the flavor profile of the cookies.
Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for Banana Cream Pie Cookies?
Absolutely! Choose ripe bananas with a few brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness. They should be soft but not overly mushy. Overripe bananas can give your cookies an intense banana flavor, but avoid ones with dark spots all over that indicate they’re beginning to go bad.
How should I store Banana Cream Pie Cookies?
Store the assembled Banana Cream Pie Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days due to the perishable topping. To keep the cookies at their best, cover them gently with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Banana Cream Pie Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the unassembled cookies. First, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and add the banana cream topping!
What if my banana cream topping is too runny?
Very common! If your banana cream topping ends up too runny, it’s often due to not fully whisking the pudding mix with the whipped cream or not refrigerating it long enough. To fix it, try chilling the topping in the fridge for another 10-15 minutes. If it still feels loose, whisk in a bit more instant pudding mix (about 1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach the desired consistency.
Are Banana Cream Pie Cookies safe for those with peanut allergies?
Absolutely! There are no peanuts or tree nuts in this Banana Cream Pie Cookies recipe as provided, making it a safe option for those with peanut allergies. However, always double-check the labels on your ingredients, particularly the whipped cream and packaged products, to ensure they’re free from cross-contamination.
Can I make these Banana Cream Pie Cookies vegan?
Yes! To create a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and use plant-based butter and whipped cream. You’ll still enjoy a deliciously nostalgic flavor while catering to a vegan diet!
Banana Cream Pie Cookies That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and other dry ingredients. Cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well before folding in dry ingredients.
- Scoop cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Flatten slightly and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the instant banana pudding mix with the whipped cream and whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes before assembly.
- Spoon the banana pudding cream onto the tops of half the cookies and press another cookie on top to create sandwiches.
- Sprinkle crushed Nilla wafers on top of the filled cookies for that signature crunch.
- Chill the assembled cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.