Print

The Best Banana Pudding Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 3 reviews

This no-cook banana pudding recipe combines creamy layers of sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, instant vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers to create a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat, it requires minimal prep and chilling time to meld the flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pudding Mixture

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

For the Layers

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, ensuring a creamy foundation for the pudding.
  2. Add Pudding Mixture Ingredients: Add the sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
  3. Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture to add lightness and a fluffy texture.
  4. Layer the Dessert: Begin layering in your chosen dish (a trifle dish, large bowl, or 9×13-inch baking dish) by placing one-third of the Nilla wafers evenly on the bottom.
  5. Add Banana Slices: Spread a single layer of sliced bananas over the wafers to provide fresh fruitiness.
  6. Pour Pudding Mixture: Pour one-third of the pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading it evenly so all the bananas are covered.
  7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times, alternating wafers, bananas, and pudding to build a triple-layered dessert.
  8. Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly on the very top layer.
  9. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the pudding to thicken and the wafers to soften to the perfect texture.

Notes

  • For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
  • Make sure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth pudding base.
  • The dessert can be made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight for enhanced flavors and texture.
  • If you prefer, substitute COOL WHIP with any whipped topping of your choice.
  • Use a sturdy dish that can hold the layers without collapsing, such as a trifle bowl or a glass baking dish.

Find it online: http://bitezly.com/the-best-banana-pudding-recipe/