Introduction to Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Why you’ll love these cookies
If you’re a fan of the classic banana cream pie, you’re in for a delightful treat with these Banana Cream Pie Cookies! Imagine the rich and creamy flavors of banana, vanilla pudding, and buttery cookie dough all wrapped up in a handheld delight. It’s the perfect dessert for those days when you crave something sweet without all the fuss of slicing a pie.
These cookies bring together the best elements of banana cream pie, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or just a cozy night in. They’re wonderfully soft and chewy, with a velvety topping that simulates the creamy goodness of the traditional dessert. Each bite delivers a bombshell of banana flavor complemented by the crispy texture of Nilla wafers. Plus, they’re easy to make and don’t require any special kitchen gadgets—just a basic mixer and some baking sheets!
Gather your ingredients and join the fun of teaming up classic cookie-making with pie-inspired flavors. You’ll be surprised how quickly they become a staple in your dessert rotation. Interested in baking tips? Check out resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats to elevate your skills!
Ingredients for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Essential ingredients for the cookies
To create those delightful banana cream pie cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients that ensure a flavorful and rich base:
- Butter: ½ cup of unsalted butter makes the cookies buttery and tender.
- Sugars: Combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar with ½ cup of packed light brown sugar for sweetness and a lovely molasses flavor.
- Egg: 1 large egg adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
- Flour: 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour is essential for structure.
- Leavening Agents: A mix of ½ teaspoon baking powder and ¼ teaspoon baking soda helps the cookies rise perfectly.
- Salt: Just ½ teaspoon enhances the sweet and nutty flavors.
- Nilla Wafer Crumbs: 1 ½ cups adds a nostalgic, crunchy texture.
Topping ingredients breakdown
Now, let’s talk about what makes these cookies taste like a true banana cream pie:
- Vanilla Pudding Mix: A 3.4-ounce packet delivers that classic creaminess.
- Whole Milk: ⅔ cup mixed with the pudding provides the creaminess we love.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup, whipped to perfection, creates a light and airy topping.
- Fresh Banana: A large banana, sliced into rounds, brings fruity freshness.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a small amount enhances flavor in the pudding.
Gather these ingredients, and you're halfway to enjoying some mouthwatering banana cream pie cookies! If you're wondering where to find high-quality ingredients, check out King Arthur Baking for flour or Vanilla Food Company for pure vanilla extract.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Making banana cream pie cookies is a delightful journey that leads to cookie heaven! These steps will guide you through the process, ensuring you end up with delicious cookies that embody all the flavors of the classic dessert. Let’s dive in!
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving those perfectly baked cookies. While you wait for it to heat up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Not only does parchment paper prevent sticking, but it also makes for easy cleanup, which is always a win in the kitchen!
Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter (room temperature), ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of light brown sugar. Mix these ingredients on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key because it helps incorporate air into the batter, contributing to the overall texture of your banana cream pie cookies.
Add the Egg and Vanilla
Now that your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed, it’s time to add the egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture on medium-high speed for about a minute, ensuring everything is well combined and smooth. The vanilla will give your cookies that warm, inviting flavor we all adore.
Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Next, sift in the dry ingredients: 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Turn the mixer to low speed and beat until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as that can lead to tough cookies. You want a soft, tender dough!
Incorporate the Nilla Wafer Crumbs
Add in 1 ½ cups of Nilla wafer crumbs. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch reminiscent of banana cream pie. Gently fold the crumbs into the dough until evenly distributed.
Portion and Bake the Cookies
With a 1 ½ ounce cookie scoop, portion out your dough, rolling each ball in your hands for a smooth finish. Place the balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the cookies for 12 minutes or until they puff up and are set around the edges. They may seem soft in the center—don’t worry! They’ll firm up as they cool.
Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Topping
While the cookies cool, let's whip up the vanilla pudding. In a medium bowl, whisk together a packet of vanilla instant pudding mix, ⅔ cup of whole milk, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until you're left with a smooth, thickened pudding. Cover it and pop it in the fridge to set.
Make the Whipped Cream and Combine with Pudding
Once your cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to prepare the whipped cream. In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until medium peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla pudding until fully integrated. This combination will be creamy and luscious!
Assemble the Cookies with Banana and Topping
Now for the fun part! Grab your sliced banana and top each cookie with a few banana rounds. Using a piping bag (or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off), pipe the whipped cream mixture over the bananas. Smooth it out with the back of a spoon. For an extra touch, add another slice of banana on top and a sprinkle of Nilla wafer crumbs.
Your banana cream pie cookies are ready to impress! Enjoy the sweet rewards of your baking adventure, and don’t forget to share with friends—if you can bear to part with them!
Variations on Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Gluten-free options
If you're looking to enjoy banana cream pie cookies while keeping gluten out of the equation, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Additionally, opt for gluten-free Nilla wafers or crushed gluten-free cookies to stay true to that classic flavor. Your indulgence won’t compromise on taste!
Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Cookies
For a delightful twist, consider transforming your banana cream pie cookies into a chocolate lover's dream! Use cocoa powder in your dough and fold in mini chocolate chips. Just imagine a rich chocolate cookie topped with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed chocolate wafer cookies. It's a delicious fusion that will leave your taste buds excited! Try these chocolate treats for your next gathering.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Tips for Perfect Dough Consistency
To ensure your banana cream pie cookies turn out perfectly, aim for a dough that is soft but not sticky. If your dough feels too wet, gradually add a bit more flour until it holds together nicely. Remember, the right consistency makes all the difference in achieving that delicious cookie texture!
Storing Leftover Cookies
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often not the case!), store your banana cream pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, try refrigerating them. Just keep the toppings separate until you're ready to enjoy them, so the cookies don’t become soggy.
Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Perfect Drinks to Pair
To elevate your Banana Cream Pie Cookies, think refreshing! A cold glass of almond milk beautifully complements the rich flavors of the cookies, offering a creamy texture that enhances every bite. Alternatively, a vibrant coconut water can add a tropical twist that pairs splendidly with the banana flavor. For a cozy vibe, serve them alongside a chai latte—the spiced notes will contrast nicely with the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present the Cookies
Presentation can transform your cookie experience! Arrange your banana cream pie cookies on a rustic wooden platter for a charming, homey vibe. Add fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of Nilla wafer crumbs around the cookies to create an inviting display. For a fun twist, consider stacking the cookies into a small tower, securing them with a thin ribbon. This eye-catching presentation will surely impress guests at your next gathering!
Time Breakdown for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Preparation Time
Getting started is half the fun! You'll need about 45 minutes to gather your ingredients, make the cookie dough, and prepare the delicious vanilla pudding. This is the perfect time to crank up your favorite playlist and enjoy the process.
Baking Time
Baking these scrumptious banana cream pie cookies takes just 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to ensure that they puff up perfectly yet remain soft in the center. Trust me, the aroma will fill your kitchen and have your mouth watering in anticipation.
Cooling and Assembly Time
After baking, give the cookies 5 minutes to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling. Once cooled, assembling the cookies with banana slices and creamy topping will take another 30 minutes. Total time for the cooling and assembly is about 35 minutes—a small price for all that deliciousness!
Nutritional Facts for Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Estimated calories per cookie
Each delicious banana cream pie cookie contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a delightful treat for any time of the day without breaking your daily calorie budget.
Sugar and fat content
In moderation, these cookies contain about 6 grams of sugar and 5 grams of fat each. While they are a sweet indulgence, the balance of flavors from the banana, pudding, and Nilla wafers adds to their unique charm. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect pairing!
For more tips on healthy baking and nutritional considerations, you can check out resources from the American Heart Association and the USDA's MyPlate for practical insights.
FAQs about Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Can I use fresh bananas in the recipe?
Absolutely! Using fresh bananas will enhance the flavor of your banana cream pie cookies. Just be sure to use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture. You’ll love how that fresh fruit brings an extra layer of authenticity to your cookies!
How do I keep the cookies fresh?
To maintain their softness and flavor, store your banana cream pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking!
What if I don’t have Nilla wafers?
No Nilla wafers? No problem! You can substitute them with any vanilla-flavored cookie or even graham crackers for a delightful twist. Just crush them into fine crumbs to mimic the texture that Nilla wafers offer. Get creative and enjoy personalizing your banana cream pie cookies!
Conclusion on Banana Cream Pie Cookies
In summary, these banana cream pie cookies beautifully combine the classic flavors of your favorite pie into a delightful, easy-to-eat treat. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, they'll surely impress your friends and family. Try making these cookies today, and watch them disappear!
Banana Cream Pie Cookies
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- baking sheet
- piping bag
- cookie scoop
- medium sized bowl
Ingredients
For the cookies
- ½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups nilla wafer crumbs
For the topping
- 1 packet (3.4 ounces) vanilla instant pudding mix
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- pinch salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 large banana sliced into rounds
Instructions
Cookie Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Use a silicone spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then add the egg, and vanilla. Beat on medium-high until smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
- Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and beat on low speed until just combined and no streaks of flour remain, about 30 seconds, scraping down the bowl as needed. Last, add the nilla wafer crumbs and mix until combined.
- Use a 1 ½ ounce cookie scoop to portion out equal amounts of dough. Roll the dough in your hands to smooth the edges, then place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing the dough balls about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 12 minutes or until they’ve puffed up and are set and firm around the edges, but still soft in the middle. Set aside to cool until set, about 5 minutes, before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Topping Preparation
- While the cookies are baking make the vanilla pudding for the topping. Sprinkle the vanilla pudding mix into a medium sized bowl and whisk in the milk and salt. Continue to whisk until the pudding has thickened and is smooth. Cover and place in the fridge.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the heavy cream until medium peaks forms. Add the vanilla pudding to whipped cream and fold to combine.
- Transfer to a piping bag (or plastic bag!) with the tip snipped off.
- Top each of the cooled cookie with a few banana slices and then pipe a layer of the vanilla cream mixture on the top. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread into a smooth layer.
- If desired top with another banana slice and some Nilla wafer crumbs! Enjoy!
Leave a Reply