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Easy Classic Banana Pudding Recipe

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3.8 from 8 reviews

This Easy Classic Banana Pudding recipe is a creamy, luscious dessert featuring layers of smooth vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafer cookies. The pudding is enriched with cream cheese and whipped cream, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that melts in your mouth. Ideal for gatherings or a comforting treat, this no-bake dessert comes together with simple ingredients and requires minimal preparation time.

Ingredients

Pudding Base

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (½ package)
  • ¾ to 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (adjust for sweetness preference)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ⅓ cups 2% milk
  • 1 (5.1-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix

Whipped Cream

  • 3 cups heavy cream

Assembly

  • 5-6 bananas, thinly sliced
  • 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafer cookies

Instructions

  1. Make the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the softened cream cheese until completely smooth. This ensures a creamy base with no lumps. Gradually add ¾ can of sweetened condensed milk if you prefer a less sweet dessert, or the full can for more sweetness. Mix in vanilla extract and kosher salt, continuing to whip until well combined. Pour in the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix, mixing on medium-low speed until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the pudding to set.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a separate large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. Reserve approximately 1¼ cups of this whipped cream in a separate bowl and refrigerate. Fold the remaining whipped cream gently into the chilled pudding mixture until completely incorporated and no streaks remain. This folding adds lightness and volume to the pudding base.
  3. Assemble the Banana Pudding: Begin by spreading one-third of the pudding mixture evenly in your serving dish. Top this layer with half of the vanilla wafer cookies and half of the banana slices. Add another third of the pudding mixture on top, followed by the remaining wafer cookies and bananas (saving some for garnish). Spread the last third of the pudding mixture on top, then finish with the reserved whipped cream. Garnish with the remaining banana slices and vanilla wafers as desired. Refrigerate the assembled pudding until ready to serve—best within 8-10 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a less sweet pudding, use ¾ can of sweetened condensed milk; use the full can for sweeter results.
  • Softening cream cheese to room temperature is key for a smooth pudding base without lumps.
  • Thinly slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning.
  • Refrigerate the pudding for at least 20 minutes before folding in whipped cream to help it set.
  • This dessert is best served within 8-10 hours for freshness.
  • Use chilled heavy cream for easier whipping and better volume.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/easy-classic-banana-pudding-recipe/