Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in the crushed vanilla wafers until evenly distributed.
- On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden. Allow them to cool completely.
- For the filling, mix the mashed bananas with softened vanilla ice cream, prepared vanilla pudding, and a dash of cinnamon until smooth.
- Once cooled, spread a generous amount of the banana pudding ice cream filling on the bottom side of a cookie and top it with another cookie to create a sandwich.
- For the glaze, combine the powdered sugar and milk until you achieve a smooth consistency, then drizzle over the sandwiches.
- Finish by topping with fresh banana slices and crushed wafer crumbs for that extra touch.
- Serve and enjoy your delightful creation!
Best ways to enjoy it
To make your Banana Bliss Cookie Sandwiches even more exciting, consider serving them with a scoop of extra vanilla ice cream or alongside a warm cup of chai tea. You could also try a fun twist by adding colorful sprinkles on top, making them perfect for children’s parties. For those who love a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts onto each sandwich for added texture.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have extras (though I doubt you will!), it’s important to store the cookie sandwiches correctly. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwiches—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients; they combine more easily, leading to a fluffier cookie.
- Make sure your bananas are ripe—they should have brown spots, which enhances their sweetness and flavor.
- If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a richer taste.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Swap the vanilla wafers for chocolate ones for an indulgent twist. You can also replace traditional vanilla ice cream with caramel or butterscotch for a delightful change. For added health benefits, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or granola into the filling for a little crunch and nuttiness.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The preparation time for Banana Bliss Cookie Sandwiches is approximately 30 minutes, followed by about 10-12 minutes for baking.
Can I substitute the vanilla ice cream with something dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily use dairy-free ice cream made from almond, coconut, or oat milk as a substitute.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
