Try this homemade version of Cook Out’s famous banana pudding milkshake
By Ryan Shepard
I remember the first time I had a milkshake from Cook Out. I was in North Carolina, on a spur of the moment road trip, when I saw the bright red lights of the restaurant’s sign inviting me to pull up to the window and grab a bite to eat.
As I looked over Cook Out’s menu, I noticed the usual offerings: burgers, hot dogs and fries. Then I saw the unusually large list of milkshakes ranging from cookies and cream to peach cobbler. My eyes finally settled on the banana pudding flavor. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much. But, when I pulled away from the drive-thru window and took my first sip of the shake I was blown away.
Banana pudding is one of my favorite desserts. Made with a healthy (unhealthy?) helping of pudding, vanilla wafter cookies, sliced bananas and whipped cream, it’s a treat that brings back fond memories of my childhood.
I was surprised that my first sip of Cook Out’s icy version actually tasted like banana pudding. Too often, restaurants offering banana flavored milkshakes use artificial flavoring to capture the taste of a perfectly ripe banana. Not Cook Out. This milkshake had taste of real bananas and crunchy pieces of vanilla wafer cookies. I was in heaven.
Unfortunately, any time I drive past a Cook Out now (which is often), I can’t help but pull up to the window and order this shake. Luckily, after drinking more of them then I’m willing to admit, I’ve come up with a version of this treat that I can make at home whenever the craving hits.
Banana Pudding Milkshake
Serves 2
Ingredients
1 large banana, peeled
1/2 cup whole milk
1 1/2 tablespoons JELL-O Banana Cream Instant Pudding & Pie Filling Mix
4-6 vanilla wafers, crushed
1 cup vanilla bean ice cream, softened (we suggest Blue Bell)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish: whipped cream, vanilla wafer cookies, sliced bananas
Instructions
In the container of a blender, combine banana, milk, pudding, vanilla wafers, ice cream and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth. Divide mixture between 2 glasses.
Garnish milk shakes with whipped cream, crushed cookies, and banana slices.