Name: Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies: Chewy, Sweet & Oh-So-Delicious
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 51 min
Ingredients: 1 cup 1-minute oats (Can substitute with rolled oats for a heartier texture.); 1 cup bread flour (Can be swapped with all-purpose flour.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (A dash of nutmeg can be added as an alternative.); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Helps achieve a tender texture.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Make sure it’s fresh for best results.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Essential for balancing sweetness.); 3/4 cup light brown sugar (Can replace with white sugar for a different flavor.); 1/3 cup vegetable shortening (Unsalted butter can be substituted.); 1 cup mashed banana (Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness.); 2 tablespoons light corn syrup (Honey or maple syrup can be alternatives.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Almond extract is a great substitution.); 8 oz cream cheese (Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter option.); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Margarine will alter the taste.); 2 cups powdered sugar (Granulated sugar can be used for a different texture.); 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (Milk can work in a pinch but results in a thinner texture.)

As I stood in my kitchen, a curious blend of aroma filled the air. The comforting scent of bananas mingled with a hint of cinnamon, making me feel like I was baking a delicious memory. Introducing my Egg-Free Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies—these delightful treats are much more than just a dessert; they’re a warm hug in cookie form! With a chewy oatmeal base and a light, fluffy cream cheese filling, they are not only quick to whip up but also perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring in solitude. Plus, they’re egg-free, making them a sensible choice for those with dietary restrictions. Are you ready to take your sweet tooth on an exciting ride?

Why are Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies irresistible?

Deliciously Unique: These Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies offer a sweet, banana-infused twist on a classic treat that everyone loves.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have these cookies ready to enjoy in no time!
Egg-Free Delight: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, these cookies don’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, lunchboxes, or a cozy night in, they will surely impress your family and friends.
Flavorful Variations: Swap in pumpkin puree or stir in chocolate chips for an exciting twist! Explore more tasty ideas with S’mores Hand Pies or cool off with a refreshing Cucumber Salad. You can’t go wrong with these delicious treats!

Banana Oatmeal Cream Pie Ingredients

For the Cookies

1-minute oats – Provides structure and chewiness to the cookies; substitute with rolled oats for a heartier texture.
Bread flour – Offers the right gluten structure for a chewy cookie; can be swapped with all-purpose flour, although the texture may vary.
Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; a dash of nutmeg can provide an interesting spice note if desired.
Cornstarch – Helps achieve a tender texture by reducing gluten formation for our delightful Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies.
Baking powder – Aids in cookie rising and ensures fluffiness; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; this ingredient is essential and can’t be omitted.
Light brown sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; can be replaced with white sugar for a drier, different flavor.
Vegetable shortening – Adds a light, airy consistency; unsalted butter can be substituted for a richer taste.
Mashed banana – The star flavor ingredient that adds moisture; make sure to use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
Light corn syrup – Adds shine and moisture; honey or maple syrup can serve as alternatives, but the flavor will vary.
Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and overall flavor; almond extract is a great substitution for a unique twist.

For the Frosting

Cream cheese – The base for the frosting, it gives a rich and tangy flavor; Neufchâtel cheese can be lighter option.
Unsalted butter – Helps create a smooth frosting; margarine works too, though it may alter the taste.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while providing structure; granulated sugar can be used, but it won’t yield as smooth a texture.
Heavy whipping cream – Adjusts frosting consistency to the perfect fluff; milk can work in a pinch, but will result in a thinner texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This setup will allow your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies to bake uniformly, developing a pleasing golden-brown color. While the oven warms, gather all your ingredients to create an organized workspace for seamless baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the 1-minute oats, bread flour, baking powder, cornstarch, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step is crucial for blending the flavors and ensuring an even texture in your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies. Aim for a consistent dry mixture, which will form the foundation of your cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Shortening
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the light brown sugar and vegetable shortening. Beat them on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This process incorporates air, which will keep your cookies tender and chewy, perfectly matching the delightful banana flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Next, add the mashed banana, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined, ensuring that the banana is evenly distributed throughout. The wet ingredients will impart moisture and sweetness, elevating your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies to a delightful treat.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the previously whisked dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer. Stir gently until just incorporated to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cookie texture. You want the dough to be slightly sticky but well combined, ready for scooping onto the baking sheets.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, placing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon for even baking. This step ensures that your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies will be uniformly shaped and have a lovely chewy texture when baked.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 6-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they should be soft but set with slightly golden edges. Removing them too early will lead to a doughy center, while overbaking will make them dry. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 1-2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
For the frosting, combine softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting reaches a fluffy consistency. This creamy filling is what makes your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies irresistibly delicious.

Step 9: Assemble the Pies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, pipe the cream cheese frosting onto the flat side of half the cookies. Carefully sandwich the remaining cookies on top, pressing gently to allow the frosting to spread. This final assembly gives each Banana Oatmeal Cream Pie its distinctive look and delightful flavor combination.

Step 10: Let Rest and Serve
For the best flavor, store your assembled Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container. Allow them to rest for a day before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, these delightful treats will offer a chewy cookie experience wrapped around a luscious, creamy filling that’s sure to enchant your taste buds.

What to Serve with Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

Transform your delightful treats into a full meal experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a medley of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cream pies, adding bright flavors and textures.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, velvety ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookies, creating a blissful mix of temperatures and taste.
Spicy Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of chai elevate the sweetness of the cookies, resulting in a cozy beverage pairing that warms the heart.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple melted chocolate adornment brings richness to the pies, taking your enjoyment experience to a decadent level. Pairing them with a hard-drinking dark stout can make for a delightful evening treat!
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds an element of satisfying texture that plays wonderfully with the soft cream filling. This could also act as a light backup snack!
Caramel Dipping Sauce: A sweet, buttery caramel for dipping offers an indulgent twist, amplifying the delightful flavors in each bite of the pies.
Mint-Infused Lemonade: This refreshingly zesty drink brightens up the dessert’s flavors and adds a touch of coolness that’s perfect for warm days.
Coffee: A hot cup of your favorite brew balances the sweetness of the pies, leading to a comforting end to any meal or snack session.

Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Pumpkin Twist: Substitute mashed banana with pumpkin puree for a seasonal delight that’s just as moist and delicious.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough for added sweetness and a touch of indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that pairs beautifully with the chewy texture.
Coconut Delight: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical spin that enhances the richness of the cream cheese filling.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the frosting to make these pies a vegan treat that everyone can enjoy.
Risk of Spiciness: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Granola Enhanced: Replace half the oats with granola for a delightful texture and an extra flavor boost that makes these pies feel more hearty.
Berry Blast: Fold in dried cranberries or blueberries into the dough for bursts of tartness that complement the banana flavor.

If you love these Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies, you might also enjoy creating a delightful Ricotta Pomegranate Dip for your next gathering or try a cozy Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken for a comforting meal. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately, then refrigerating the dough in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them for up to 3 days before frosting. Simply keep the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, frost the cooled cookies and let them sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. This way, you’ll have delightful treats ready to impress!

Expert Tips for Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas with dark spots for maximum sweetness and flavor in your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies.
Cooling Time: Always let the cookies cool completely before adding frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and maintains a perfect texture.
Alteration Awareness: If substituting ingredients, keep in mind that using all-purpose flour instead of bread flour will alter the cookie’s chewiness.
Add-ins Optional: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for added flavor and texture, making your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies even more delightful!
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to 5 days, and let them rest overnight for enhanced flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

Airtight Container: Store your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain chewy and fresh.

Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper to keep frosting intact and avoid gooeyness.

Freezer: Freeze assembled pies by wrapping each in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months for a delightful treat anytime!

Reheating Tip: If enjoyed from the freezer, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture, or briefly warm them in the microwave for a cozy, soft bite.

Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that have dark brown spots covering the peel. This indicates peak ripeness and the best sweetness for your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies. Overripe bananas will yield a richer flavor in your cookies, making them absolutely delightful!

How should I store my Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies?
To keep your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just layer parchment paper between cookies to preserve the frosting’s integrity and prevent sticking.

Can I freeze Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies?
Very! To freeze your assembled pies, wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy one, simply let it thaw overnight in the fridge or briefly warm it in the microwave for that cozy, soft texture.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies end up dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture from the bananas. Make sure to check your baking time and always use overripe bananas for optimal moisture. If they seem dry, serve them with a dollop of the cream cheese frosting for added moisture and flavor!

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
While this recipe is not inherently gluten-free due to the use of bread flour, you can definitely make adjustments! Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to create a version of these Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Can dogs eat Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies?
While the main ingredients in these cookies are safe for dogs, the frosting contains cream cheese and sugar, which aren’t ideal for them. If you want to share a sweet treat with your furry friend, consider offering plain mashed banana instead! Always check with your vet for the best dietary choices for your pets.