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Banana Pudding Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 102 reviews

This creamy and indulgent Banana Pudding recipe features layers of smooth vanilla pudding, fresh ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, topped with a fluffy whipped cream topping. Perfect for a classic Southern dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to delight any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding Mixture

  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (5.1 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix (6 serving size)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream

  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar

For Assembly

  • 5 ripe bananas
  • 1 (11 ounce) package vanilla wafers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer to beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, ensuring there are no lumps.
  2. Add Pudding and Flavorings: Stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture until it is well combined and begins to thicken slightly.
  3. Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks are achieved, making sure the cream holds its shape.
  4. Combine Whipped Cream and Pudding: Reserve 2½ cups of the whipped cream for topping. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the pudding mixture, taking care not to deflate the airy texture.
  5. Layer the Pudding: In a glass trifle bowl or a large serving dish, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, then cover completely with a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat these layers until all ingredients have been used, finishing with a pudding layer.
  6. Top and Chill: Spread the reserved whipped cream evenly over the top of the pudding layers. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top with additional banana slices or crumbled vanilla wafers if desired. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Notes

  • For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and mushiness during chilling.
  • You can substitute low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version, though texture and richness will be slightly affected.
  • Make this dessert a day ahead to allow the flavors to fully develop and the wafers to soften to a cake-like texture.
  • Use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment for ease in whipping cream and beating mixtures.
  • Cover the pudding tightly while chilling to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.

Keywords: banana pudding, classic dessert, Southern dessert, vanilla pudding, cream cheese pudding, layered dessert, no bake dessert, banana recipe

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/banana-pudding-recipe/