Are you a fan of classic vanilla wafers, but looking to mix things up and try some new and creative flavors? You’re in luck! We’ve got 18 delicious vanilla wafer cookie recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From sweet treats like strawberry shortcake and caramel delight, to savory snacks like lemon sandwich cookies and spiced chai cookies, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of vanilla wafer cookies and show you how to take these humble wafers from plain to sublime. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, you’ll find inspiration in our collection of recipes that range from simple to complex, sweet to savory, and everything in between.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this tasty journey and see just how creative we can get with vanilla wafers!
Classic Vanilla Wafer Cookies
These crumbly, buttery cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for snacking or serving with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Vanilla Wafer Cookies
Elevate your snacking game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the comfort of vanilla wafers with the richness of melted chocolate. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 package vanilla wafer cookies (about 30-40 cookies)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or coconut oil)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the vanilla wafers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip each wafer into the melted chocolate, coating about half of the cookie.
6. Place the dipped wafers on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and enjoy.
Vanilla Wafer Banana Pudding
This creamy pudding combines ripe bananas, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a hint of sweetness for a delightful dessert. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package (11-12 oz) vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Fold in sliced bananas.
4. Pour pudding mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert!
Vanilla Wafer Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized cheesecakes are the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy, with a vanilla wafer crust and a graham cracker topping. They’re easy to make and ideal for parties or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, mix crushed wafers and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture into prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 3/4 full.
5. Top with graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Icebox Cake
This classic dessert requires minimal effort but yields a delightful and creamy treat perfect for hot summer days or any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the vanilla wafers and set aside.
2. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and salt; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter and vanilla extract until combined.
4. To assemble the cake, spread half of the whipped cream over the bottom layer of vanilla wafers in a 9×13-inch dish. Top with the remaining wafers, then drizzle with the butter mixture.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Vanilla Wafer Strawberry Shortcake
Experience the sweet combination of crunchy vanilla wafers, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped cream in this classic shortcake recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 2 cups of sliced strawberries
– 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange the vanilla wafers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted and crispy.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with sugar and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Split the toasted vanilla wafers in half horizontally.
6. Spoon some whipped cream onto each wafer half, followed by sliced strawberries.
7. Top with another wafer half to create a sandwich.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including baking time)
Vanilla Wafer Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons get a delightful twist with the addition of crushed vanilla wafers, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
– Optional: food coloring (pink or yellow)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Fold in crushed vanilla wafers.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of mixture onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow macaroons to cool on baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Peanut Butter Bars
These rich and chewy peanut butter bars get a delightful twist from the addition of crunchy vanilla wafer crumbs to their crust. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Stir in honey until smooth.
5. Pour peanut butter mixture over baked crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Lemon Sandwich Cookies
These Vanilla Wafer Lemon Sandwich Cookies are a refreshing twist on the classic sandwich cookie. The combination of crunchy vanilla wafers, tangy lemon curd, and sweet buttercream is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (12-16) vanilla wafers
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange vanilla wafers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, powdered sugar, and softened butter until smooth.
4. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon curd onto one half of each wafer.
5. Top with another wafer to create a sandwich.
6. Dust tops with confectioners’ sugar. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assemble just before serving)
Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Mousse Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these creamy, chocolatey cups topped with crushed vanilla wafers – the perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract until dissolved.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate mixture until combined.
4. Spoon the mousse into small cups or ramekins.
5. Top each cup with crushed vanilla wafers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Wafer Pumpkin Pie Parfait
This autumnal dessert combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the crunch of vanilla wafers, all wrapped up in a delightful parfait.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and additional vanilla wafers for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
2. Fold in heavy cream until well combined.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pumpkin mixture into the bottom of a parfait glass or a tall clear cup.
4. Add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers on top of the pumpkin mixture.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream and additional vanilla wafers if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to serve immediately.
Vanilla Wafer S’mores Bars
Elevate your s’mores game with these easy-to-make bars that combine the perfect ratio of crunchy vanilla wafers, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12-16 vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the crust.
5. Top with marshmallows and chocolate chips.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Caramel Delight
A sweet and salty treat that combines crunchy vanilla wafers with gooey caramel and a touch of sea salt. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place vanilla wafers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each wafer.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and carefully pour the hot caramel over the vanilla wafers on the baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the top of the caramel.
7. Allow the caramel to set at room temperature before breaking into pieces. If desired, garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Raspberry Tartlets
Sweet and Tangy Vanilla Wafer Raspberry Tartlets Recipe
These bite-sized tartlets are perfect for a quick dessert or snack. Crumbly vanilla wafers form the crust, topped with a sweet and tangy raspberry filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Crush the vanilla wafers in a food processor until fine crumbs form.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together raspberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Press about 1 tablespoon of crushed wafers into each of 12 muffin cups to form the crust.
5. Spoon the raspberry mixture evenly over the wafer crusts.
6. Drizzle with melted butter.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Almond Brittle Cookies
These cookies combine the crunch of brittle with the tender chew of vanilla wafers, all wrapped up in a delicious almond flavor package.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups Vanilla Wafers, crushed
• 1 cup almonds, sliced
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Stir in crushed Vanilla Wafers, sliced almonds, almond extract, baking soda, and salt.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Cream Cheese Truffles
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats that combine the creamy richness of cream cheese, the crunch of vanilla wafers, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed vanilla wafers
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
3. Stir in the crushed vanilla wafers, butter, and salt until well mixed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Vanilla Wafer Maple Pecan Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the crunch of vanilla wafers with the richness of maple syrup and toasted pecans, creating a delightful sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed Vanilla Wafers
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Stir in crushed Vanilla Wafers, maple syrup, and chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Spiced Chai Cookies
These tender cookies combine the comforting flavors of chai spices with the familiar crunch of vanilla wafers, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp black tea leaves (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and crushed wafers.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and tea leaves (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 creative and delicious vanilla wafer cookies recipes that will take your baking game to the next level. From classic treats like classic vanilla wafers and chocolate-dipped vanilla wafers, to innovative desserts like strawberry shortcake, pumpkin pie parfait, and s’mores bars, these recipes are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an impressive dessert, this collection has something for everyone.
Leave a Reply