The Best Banana Pudding Ever

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Enhanced Creaminess: The addition of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk provides a velvety texture and depth of flavor.

• Balanced Sweetness: The combination of French vanilla pudding and ripe bananas offers a harmonious blend of sweetness without being overpowering.

• Textural Delight: Layers of crunchy vanilla wafers soften slightly to complement the creamy components, creating a delightful contrast in each bite.

Ingredients

• 2 boxes vanilla wafers

• 6 to 8 ripe bananas, sliced

• 2 cups milk

• 1 (5 oz.) box French vanilla instant pudding mix

• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Base:

   • Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch dish with one box of vanilla wafers.

   • Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the wafers.

2. Make the Pudding:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the milk and French vanilla pudding mix.

   • Use a handheld electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

3. Create the Cream Cheese Mixture:

   • In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

   • Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing until well combined and creamy.

   • Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated.

4. Combine and Layer:

   • Add the cream cheese mixture to the prepared pudding and stir until thoroughly blended.

   • Pour this combined mixture over the banana and wafer layer in the dish, spreading it evenly.

5. Final Touches:

   • Top the pudding with the remaining box of vanilla wafers, arranging them decoratively if desired.

6. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.

   • Serve cold, optionally garnished with additional banana slices or a dollop of whipped cream.

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     The Best Banana Pudding Ever

     

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     This Banana Pudding recipe takes the classic dessert to the next level with layers of creamy French vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, all combined with a luscious cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk mixture. This rich, no-bake treat is perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings!

     • Author: Ava
     • Prep Time: 15 minutes
     • Cook Time: 2–3 hours
     • Total Time: ~3 hours 15 minutes
     • Yield: 12 servings
     • Category: Dessert
     • Method: No-Bake
     • Cuisine: American
     • Diet: Vegetarian

     Ingredients

     • 2 boxes vanilla wafers
     • 6 to 8 ripe bananas, sliced
     • 2 cups milk
     • 1 (5 oz.) box French vanilla instant pudding mix
     • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
     • 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
     • 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equal amount of homemade sweetened whipped cream)

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     Instructions

     Prepare the Base:

     • Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch dish with one box of vanilla wafers.
     • Arrange sliced bananas evenly over the wafers.

     2. Make the Pudding:

     • In a medium bowl, whisk together milk and French vanilla pudding mix.
     • Beat with a handheld electric mixer until smooth and slightly thickened.

     3. Create the Cream Cheese Mixture:

     • In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
     • Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until creamy.
     • Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.

     4. Combine and Layer:

     • Add the cream cheese mixture to the prepared pudding and mix until fully blended.
     • Pour this creamy mixture over the banana and wafer layer, spreading it evenly.

     5. Final Touches:

     • Top with the remaining box of vanilla wafers, arranging decoratively if desired.

     6. Chill and Serve:

     • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until fully chilled.
     • Serve cold, optionally garnished with extra banana slices or whipped cream.

     Notes

     • Best Bananas to Use: Choose ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
     • Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better after chilling overnight, as the flavors meld.
     • Want a Crunchier Top? Reserve some vanilla wafers and add them just before serving.