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Best Banana Pudding Ever

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Southern, American

Description

This creamy, dreamy banana pudding is made with layers of rich vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped topping over crisp vanilla wafers. It’s the perfect no-bake dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or just because!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cold milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
  • 45 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers (such as Nilla Wafers)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Make the pudding – In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cold milk, and vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
  • Beat the cream cheese – In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, fold in the pudding mixture and mix until fully combined.
  • Fold in whipped topping – Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  • Assemble the layers – In a large trifle dish, 9×13-inch baking dish, or individual cups, layer as follows:
    • Bottom layer: A layer of vanilla wafers
    • Middle layer: A layer of banana slices
    • Top layer: A layer of the creamy pudding mixture
    • Repeat layers until you reach the top, finishing with pudding.
  • Chill – Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best flavor.
  • Serve – Top with extra whipped topping, crushed vanilla wafers, and banana slices just before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning.
  • Substitute homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip if preferred.
  • Try Chessmen cookies or graham crackers for a fun twist!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg