How to make Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies
Making Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies is a fun and delicious way to enjoy some cozy baked treats. These cookies pack the perfect balance of flavor and texture, making them a delightful snack or dessert. Follow the steps below for a fantastic batch of banana oatmeal cream pies!
Ingredients
- 3 cups 1-minute oats
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup butter-flavored shortening or butter
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
-
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy release and clean-up.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, bread flour, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
-
Cream Sugar and Fat
- In another bowl, beat together the brown sugar and shortening (or butter) for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a light texture.
-
Add Banana Mixture
- Mix in the mashed bananas, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
-
Combine Dough
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Mix just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cookies tough.
-
Scoop and Bake
- Use a cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of dough onto the lined baking sheets. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon to ensure they bake evenly. Bake for 6–7 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
-
Cool Cookies
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool briefly on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Make Filling
- While the cookies are cooling, prepare the filling. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and well combined.
-
Assemble
- Once the cookies have cooled, pipe a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of half the cookies. Sandwich with the remaining cookies, flat side down, to create cream pies.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies
Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies are not only delicious but also comforting. The combination of oats and bananas gives these pies a hearty texture while the creamy filling adds a delightful sweetness. They are perfect for any occasion, from snack time to dessert after dinner. Plus, they are easy to make, which means you can whip them up anytime you crave something sweet!
Nutritional Benefits
Bananas and oats come with their own set of health benefits. Here’s a quick look:
- Bananas are a great source of potassium and provide natural sweetness to the cookies.
- Oats are rich in fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
- The addition of cream cheese and butter provides a satisfying richness but can be enjoyed in moderation.
What to Serve With Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies
These cookies work wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also go well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo. If you want to keep it simple, a glass of milk is always a welcome partner to any cookie!
How to Store Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies
To keep your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: You can store them in the fridge for up to a week if you prefer a cooler treat.
- Freezer: These cream pies freeze well too! Wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
-
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cookies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
-
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined.
-
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to check your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
-
Chill Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and can help the cookies hold their shape better.
Variations
Feel free to customize these Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies to your liking:
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some chocolate chips into the cookie dough for a delightful surprise.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of 1-minute oats?
Yes! Quick oats can be used as a substitute, although the texture may be slightly different.
2. Can I substitute the cream cheese in the filling?
Absolutely! You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer.
3. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The edges of the cookies should be lightly toasted, while the center will look soft. They’ll harden as they cool.
By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll have delicious Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies that are perfect for sharing or savoring on your own! Enjoy the warm, cozy flavors and the delightful creaminess of the filling in this wonderful treat.
