Banana Pudding Cookies (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
1 cup unsalted butter, softened.
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar.
03 -
½ cup packed brown sugar.
04 -
2 large eggs.
05 -
1 tsp vanilla extract.
06 -
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour.
07 -
1 cup instant vanilla pudding mix (dry).
08 -
1 tsp baking soda.
09 -
½ tsp baking powder.
10 -
½ tsp salt.
11 -
1 cup chopped ripe bananas (about 2 small bananas).
12 -
½ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans).
13 -
½ cup mini marshmallows (optional).
14 -
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting).
15 -
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting).
16 -
½ cup cream cheese, softened (for frosting).
17 -
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting).
18 -
1-2 tbsp milk (if needed for frosting consistency).
Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
02 -
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one by one, and then mix in the vanilla extract.
03 -
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, instant vanilla pudding mix, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined. Fold in the chopped bananas, nuts (if using), and mini marshmallows (if using).
04 -
Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
05 -
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
06 -
To prepare the optional frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk, a little at a time, if needed to adjust the frosting consistency.
07 -
Enjoy the cookies as they are or with the optional frosting on top. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Notes:
01 -
Optional ingredients include mini marshmallows and nuts for added texture and flavor.
02 -
The cream cheese frosting is optional, adding extra richness and creaminess to the cookies.