The Best Banana Pudding
Ingredients
- 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
thawed), COOL WHIP
- 11 ounce box Nilla wafers)
(divided use
- 5-7 bananas
peeled and sliced), (divided use
Directions
- 1
In a large bowl, beat cream ceese, with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
- 2
Add in sweetened condensed milk, vanilla pudding mix, milk and vanilla extract. Mix until combined well.
- 3
Finally, stir in half of the whipped topping.
- 4
To layer: place one-third of the Nilla wafers in a layer on the bottom of a trifle dish, large bowl or a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- 5
Add a single layer of the sliced bananas.
- 6
Then pour one-third of the pudding mixture on top (enough to cover all the bananas).
- 7
Continue with two more layers.
- 8
Top with remaining whipped topping.
- 9
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one to two hours before serving so it can thicken up and the wafers can soften.
The Best Banana Pudding
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About this Recipe
Craving that classic, comforting banana pudding without any cooking? This recipe for The Best Banana Pudding delivers nostalgic flavors and creamy textures, all assembled in just 25 minutes, making it the perfect stress-free dessert. The genius of this pudding lies in its effortless, no-cook preparation. It masterfully combines softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk to create an unbelievably rich and creamy base. This decadent mixture is then blended with instant vanilla pudding and fresh milk, ensuring a velvety smooth texture that sets quickly and requires no stovetop fuss. The result is a lusciously smooth custard that tastes homemade but comes together with remarkable ease. Prepare for a delightful symphony of textures and sweet, creamy goodness that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen. Each spoonful offers a smooth, luscious custard that melts in your mouth, perfectly contrasted by the satisfying crunch of Nilla wafers and the natural sweetness of fresh, ripe banana slices. The airy whipped topping provides a light, ethereal finish, making this dessert feel both profoundly comforting and delightfully indulgent. It’s an ideal treat for any occasion, promising a satisfyingly sweet experience without being overly heavy. While delicious as is, this banana pudding is wonderfully adaptable. For an even richer base, feel free to use whole milk instead of 2%. If you want to control sweetness, ensure your bananas are ripe but still slightly firm. You could also experiment with layering other cookies like shortbread, or even add a hint of spice with a tiny pinch of nutmeg in the pudding mixture for a subtle twist. This delightful banana pudding is the quintessential dessert for potlucks, family gatherings, or any celebration where a crowd-pleasing treat is desired. Serve it chilled, ideally presented in a clear trifle bowl to highlight its beautiful layers of creamy pudding, golden wafers, and sweet bananas.