How to Make Banana Cream Pie Cookies: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• • Preheat your oven to 375°F.

• • Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

• • In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 stick of softened butter, ½ cup + 2 tablespoons sugar, and 2 ½ tablespoons of cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until it’s light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth.

• • Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor.

• • Add 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want these to be soft and chewy.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies

• • Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll them into balls. Place 6 balls on each baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

• • Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are puffy. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point—try not to sneak a bite too soon!

• • Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets. This step is crucial for the perfect texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Banana Cream Filling

• • While the cookies cool, stir the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 3 tablespoons of cream cheese into the cooked vanilla pudding. Mix until smooth and creamy.

• • Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the filling is thick and spreadable.

Step 5: Assemble Your Banana Cream Pie Cookies

• • Once the pudding is chilled, stir in the chopped banana.

• • Spread a generous dollop of the banana pudding mixture onto each cookie.

• • Top with a few slices of fresh banana for a beautiful, Instagram-ready finish.