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The Best Banana Pudding Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 50 reviews

This classic Banana Pudding recipe combines creamy layers of vanilla pudding, sweetened condensed milk, and cream cheese with fresh bananas and crunchy Nilla wafers, topped with whipped topping. This no-bake dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or family treats, offering a luscious and comforting flavor reminiscent of Southern traditions.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 5 ounce package INSTANT vanilla pudding mix (larger box)
  • 3 cups milk (2% or higher)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 8 ounce tub whipped topping (COOL WHIP), thawed (divided use)

Layers

  • 11 ounce box Nilla wafers (divided use)
  • 5–7 bananas, peeled and sliced (divided use)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy, ensuring there are no lumps.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients and Pudding Mix: Add the sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
  3. Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture. This lightens the texture and adds creaminess.
  4. Layer Nilla Wafers: In a trifle dish, large bowl, or 9×13-inch baking dish, place one-third of the Nilla wafers evenly as the first layer at the bottom.
  5. Add a Banana Layer: Arrange a single layer of the peeled and sliced bananas over the wafers, spreading them evenly.
  6. Pour Pudding Mixture: Pour one-third of the prepared pudding mixture over the bananas, covering them completely to create an even layer.
  7. Repeat Layers: Continue layering with the remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture for two more cycles, building a total of three layers.
  8. Top with Whipped Topping: Finish by spreading the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top of the final pudding layer to create a smooth, fluffy topping.
  9. Chill and Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours, allowing the pudding to thicken and the wafers to soften for the best texture and flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Use ripe bananas for the best flavor but avoid overly mushy ones to prevent a soggy dessert.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle some crushed Nilla wafers on top just before serving.
  • This pudding can be made a day ahead to save time; it tastes better once flavors meld together.
  • If you prefer a lighter pudding, use fat-free or low-fat milk and whipped topping.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Keywords: banana pudding, no bake dessert, creamy pudding, Nilla wafers, Southern dessert, easy banana pudding

Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/the-best-banana-pudding-recipe/