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The Best Banana Pudding (+Video) Recipe

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This classic banana pudding features creamy layers of smooth vanilla pudding, fresh sliced bananas, and crunchy Nilla wafers, all topped with fluffy whipped topping. Easy to assemble and perfect for a family gathering or potluck, this no-bake dessert chills to a luscious, creamy consistency with delightful texture contrasts.

Ingredients

For the Pudding Mixture

  • 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 5 ounce box 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 Assembly

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

Instructions

  1. Beat cream cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the 8-ounce block of softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add pudding ingredients: Add the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk, 5-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix, 3 cups of milk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix well until fully combined, which may take a few minutes to ensure a smooth texture.
  3. Incorporate whipped topping: Gently stir in half of the thawed whipped topping until evenly mixed for a light and creamy pudding base.
  4. First layer of wafers: Place one-third of the Nilla wafers evenly over the bottom of a trifle dish, large bowl, or a 9x13-inch baking dish to form the base layer.
  5. Add banana slices: Arrange a single layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, covering them completely.
  6. Pour pudding layer: Pour one-third of the pudding mixture over the banana layer, spreading it evenly to cover all the bananas.
  7. Repeat layers: Continue layering with the remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture in two more layers, finishing the third pudding layer on top.
  8. Top with whipped topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the final pudding layer for a creamy finish.
  9. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one to two hours before serving to allow the pudding to thicken and the wafers to soften for the perfect texture.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy texture in the pudding.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing and a smooth pudding base.
  • For best results, refrigerate overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
  • You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
  • Serve chilled and consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and freshness.

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