Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Cookies Recipe
These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with banana flavor — just like a classic banana cream pie but in cookie form. The instant banana pudding mix keeps the texture tender and moist, while the smooth frosting adds a sweet finish that pairs perfectly with crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices. They’re great for gatherings, dessert tables, or an everyday treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3/4 cup butter, room temperature
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 box (3.4 ounce) instant banana pudding mix
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
Frosting:
1/4 cup butter, room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional garnish: crushed vanilla wafers, sliced bananas
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
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In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the room temperature butter and brown sugar and mix until well combined.
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Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
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Stir in the instant banana pudding mix, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add the flour and mix until just combined.
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Using a medium (about 2‑tablespoon) cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared cookie sheets about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for about 9–11 minutes, until the edges just begin to turn golden. Do not overbake.
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Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3–4 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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To make the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
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Frost cooled cookies and, if desired, garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices.
Servings and timing
Yield: about 24 cookies
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Bake time: about 9–11 minutes per batch
Total time: around 25 minutes including cooling and frosting
Variations
• Add white chocolate chips or crushed vanilla wafers directly into the cookie dough for extra texture.
• Substitute a different instant pudding flavor — vanilla or butterscotch can create a new twist.
• For a more intense banana flavor, garnish with thin fresh banana slices just before serving.
• Try a cinnamon‑sugar sprinkle on top of the frosting for a slightly spiced finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooled and frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If storing in the refrigerator, allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving so the frosting softens. You can also freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature and frost before serving for best results.
FAQs
How can I make these cookies softer?
Make sure not to overbake them — removing the cookies when the edges are just golden helps keep the centers soft.
Can I skip the frosting?
Yes, these cookies are delicious on their own without frosting, though the frosting adds sweetness and a classic pie‑like finish.
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant mix?
Instant pudding mix is recommended for texture and stability; homemade pudding may make the dough too wet.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers for garnish?
Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies work well as an alternative garnish.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I freeze these cookies?
Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer‑safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Will the cookies taste like banana even without fresh bananas?
Yes, the instant banana pudding mix gives them a distinctive banana flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar in the frosting?
Absolutely — reduce the powdered sugar slightly to make the frosting less sweet.
Are these cookies kid‑friendly?
Yes, kids love the sweet, soft texture and banana flavor.
Can I add other mix‑ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, additions like white chocolate chips or chopped nuts can add extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Banana Pudding Cookies are a fun and flavorful twist on classic banana cream pie. Soft, chewy, and full of banana flavor with a creamy frosting, they’re sure to become a favorite for desserts, gatherings, or anytime you want a nostalgic sweet treat.
