Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies: 7 Steps to Pure Delight

If you’re on the hunt for an easy dessert that brings comfort and joy in every bite, look no further than banana oatmeal cream pies. These delightful treats combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the hearty goodness of oats, all sandwiched around a luscious cream cheese filling. Whether you’re craving a snack to share with friends or a sweet indulgence just for yourself, these cookies deliver pure delight.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dessert that’s both chewy and creamy.
It’s an easy recipe that your whole family can enjoy, bringing joy and nostalgia with every bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

Making banana oatmeal cream pies is simpler than you might think. With a few straightforward steps, you can whip up these delightful treats in no time. Let’s break it down so you can get started!

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for deliciously golden-brown bites.
Prepare the bananas: In a mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them until they achieve a smooth consistency. The riper the bananas, the sweeter the flavor.
Mix the dry ingredients: Now, add in the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix these ingredients well until they are evenly combined, creating a wholesome base for your cookies.
Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the softened butter and the teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is nicely blended. You’ll notice the mixture becoming creamy and aromatic.
Shape the cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them out to allow for spreading during baking.
Bake to perfection: Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
Cool and fill: Once baked, let the cookies cool completely. Meanwhile, in another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth. Spread this dreamy filling between two cookies to form your delightful cream pies.

Storage Tips for Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

To keep your banana oatmeal cream pies fresh and delicious, consider these handy storage guidelines:

Refrigerate: Store any leftover cream pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the assembled cream pies for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well or place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, allow the frozen cream pies to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Best Ways to Serve Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

When it comes to serving these delicious treats, the possibilities are as delightful as the pies themselves. You can serve them plain or elevate the experience with a few creative ideas:

A dessert platter: Arrange your cream pies on a decorative plate alongside some fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a beautiful table setting.
Coffee or tea time: Pair the pies with a warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ice cream sandwich: For an extra indulgent dessert, sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cream pies for a delightful twist.
Garnish with toppings: Sprinkle some extra cinnamon, chocolate shavings, or crushed nuts on top of the filled cream pies for added texture and flavor.

Tips to Make Banana Oatmeal Cream Pies

Creating the perfect banana oatmeal cream pies doesn’t have to be tricky. Here are a few quick tips to guide your baking adventure:

Choose ripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your pies will be.
Don’t skip the cooling: Allow the cookies to cool completely before filling them. This prevents the cream cheese filling from melting and guarantees a perfect sandwich.
Consistency matters: If your mixture seems too dry, you can add a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency for scooping.
Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap in different spices like nutmeg, or add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider these fun variations or substitutions:

Nutty addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for an added crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Gluten-free option: For those avoiding gluten, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the cookies in advance and store them without the filling to maintain freshness. Just assemble the pies when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How do I keep the cream pies from being too soft?
A: Make sure your cookies are completely cool before adding the cream cheese filling. If you find they are still too soft, consider using a thicker cream cheese or adding a bit more powdered sugar for stability.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have cream cheese?
A: You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use whipped topping for a different texture and taste.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in these banana oatmeal cream pies, it’s always good to be aware of their nutritional impact. Here’s a rough breakdown per pie (based on 12 pies):

Calories: Approximately 180
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that these values may vary based on the specific brands and variations of ingredients used.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the cooling step: Cooling the cookies before filling them is crucial. Warm cookies can lead to a gooey mess rather than a delightful sandwich.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science; ensure that you measure your ingredients properly for the best results.
Overmixing the dough: Once you’ve added the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Conclusion

Banana oatmeal cream pies are not just desserts; they are bites of joy that evoke memories of simpler times spent with family and friends. Treat yourself to the deliciousness they offer, and don’t hesitate to share them with loved ones. A warm smile and a delicious pie are the perfect recipe for creating cherished memories together. Get baking and indulge in pure delight!