Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for nostalgic flavors, the Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These cookies capture the dreamy, creamy essence of banana cream pie in a bite-sized, utterly delightful treat. With a tender cookie base reminiscent of graham cracker crust, topped with luscious banana pudding and a smooth cream cheese whipped cream, every bite is a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re baking for a casual get-together or just want a special snack that feels like a warm hug, these cookies hit the spot beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, keeping the flavors true to banana cream pie while adding textures that make these cookies unforgettable. From the rich butter that lends softness to the cookie to the pops of fresh banana on top, each component comes together simply but with a delicious purpose.

• Salted butter (1 cup): Softened butter gives the cookies their tender crumb and buttery richness.
• Sugar (1 cup): Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the banana flavor.
• Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for lightness without losing chewiness.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Egg (1): Acts as a binder, keeping the cookie dough together for perfect shape.
• Almond extract (1 teaspoon): A subtle hint that complements the banana beautifully but can be swapped for vanilla if preferred.
• Graham cracker crumbs (3/4 cup): Gives the cookie base a classic pie crust flavor and sandy texture.
• Flour (1 & 1/3 cups + 1/4 cup spooned and leveled): The structure behind your cookie, just enough to keep it soft.
• Banana Cream Pie flavored pudding mix (1 large package): Creates that unmistakable banana custard flavor; vanilla pudding can work with a bit of milk adjustment.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces): Softened for a creamy, tangy whipped topping that pairs perfectly with the pudding.
• Heavy cream (2 cups): Whipped to soft peaks, making the topping light and airy.
• Vanilla (2 teaspoons): Brings out richness in the whipped cream and balances the banana.
• Dash of salt: Elevates the sweet topping’s flavor.
• Powdered sugar (6 tablespoons): Sweetness that dissolves smoothly in the cream cheese whipped cream.
• Bananas (for topping): Fresh slices add a bright, fruity finish and classic flair.

How to Make Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preparation and Baking the Cookies

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, then line two large baking sheets with silpats or parchment paper for an easy bake and cleanup. This step ensures your cookies will have a smooth bottom and bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat the butter and sugar together for about two minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process is essential for a soft yet structured cookie, giving them a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to beat.

Step 3: Add Dry Leavening Agents

Mix in the baking powder and salt by stirring gently to distribute them evenly. These small additions help your cookies rise just enough to keep them tender without losing the familiar chewiness of a classic cookie.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Extract

Beat in the egg and almond extract until combined. This adds richness and that subtle nutty undertone which harmonizes so well with banana flavors, enhancing the overall profile of the cookie dough.

Step 5: Add Graham Cracker Crumbs and Flour

Fold in the graham cracker crumbs and flour until you see no more streaks of flour. The graham cracker crumbs replicate that treasured pie crust texture, grounding these cookies in the spirit of banana cream pie.

Step 6: Shape and Arrange Dough

Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and space them about two inches apart on your lined baking sheets. Giving them room ensures they bake evenly without merging.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 12 minutes, watching for when the shiny surface loses its gloss—that’s your cue! This timing keeps them wonderfully soft rather than crunchy.

Step 8: Cooling

Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set perfectly without breaking.

Step 9: Prepare the Pudding

Meanwhile, prepare the Banana Cream Pie pudding according to the package instructions and chill it to extra thickness, ready for assembly.

Step 10: Cream Cheese Whipped Cream Preparation

Beat the cream cheese in a clean, large bowl until very smooth. This step is key to avoid lumps and get a perfectly luscious, creamy topping.

Step 11: Whip the Cream

Using the same bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla, salt, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. The mix of flavors here keeps the cream light but flavorful.

Step 12: Combine Cream Cheese and Whipped Cream

Gently fold the smooth cream cheese back into your whipped cream mixture until fully combined, creating the signature cream cheese whipped cream topping.

Step 13: Assemble the Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe

Place a generous spoonful of pudding on each cooled cookie, follow by a dollop of cream cheese whipped cream, then crown with a fresh slice of banana for that perfectly ripe burst of freshness.

Step 14: Enjoy or Repurpose!

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t fret—you can layer the remaining pudding, cream, and cookie pieces in a bowl to create a delightful trifle dessert that’s just as tasty. No waste and double the fun!

How to Serve Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For a final flourish, consider sprinkling a bit of crushed graham crackers or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of each cookie. This gives an extra nod to the classic pie spices and adds lovely color contrast and texture that catches the eye immediately.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an adult twist, serve alongside a mild dessert wine like Moscato or a sweet banana liqueur cocktail to reinforce the tropical flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange these cookies on a beautiful platter with scattered banana slices and edible flowers for a tropical vibe. You could also serve them stacked in mini dessert jars with layers of pudding and whipped cream, perfect for grab-and-go treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—long enough to satisfy any lingering cravings!

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats longer, freeze the baked cookies (without toppings) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature and add fresh pudding and whipped cream.

Reheating

Since these cookies are best enjoyed chilled with the creamy topping, reheating is generally unnecessary and not recommended. However, if you prefer a warmer cookie base, microwave the cookie alone for 10-15 seconds before topping.

FAQs

Can I use vanilla pudding instead of banana cream pudding?

Absolutely! Vanilla pudding works well as a base if you can’t find banana cream pudding. Simply stick to the package directions and add a small dash of banana extract or fresh banana slices to amp up the flavor.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

No worries at all. You can swap almond extract for vanilla extract without losing the cookie’s charm. Vanilla will give a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.

How do I keep the banana slices from browning?

To keep banana slices looking fresh and bright on top of your cookies, lightly brush them with lemon juice. This natural antioxidant slows down browning and keeps your cookies looking beautiful longer.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to preserve the cookie structure.

Is it necessary to chill the pudding before assembly?

Chilling the pudding is highly recommended because it thickens the mixture, making it easier to spread on the cookies and preventing it from running off. Plus, it keeps that refreshing cool bite each time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Banana Cream Pie Cookies Recipe enough for anyone who adores classic desserts with a fun twist. These cookies are simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in a cozy solo treat. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re destined to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire!

Print