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Banana Pudding Cups with Nilla Wafers and Whipped Cream Recipe


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4 from 86 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

These delightful Banana Pudding Cups are a quick and easy dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, whipped cream, and crunchy Nilla Wafer cookies. Perfect for parties or an indulgent treat, they combine smooth textures and sweet flavors in individual clear cups for a beautiful presentation.


Ingredients

Pudding Mixture

  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix

Whipped Cream

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Other Ingredients

  • 3 large bananas (peeled and sliced)
  • 36 Nilla Wafer cookies


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pudding: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until the mixture thickens. Cover and refrigerate the pudding until it is needed for assembly to ensure it maintains a firm texture.
  2. Make the Whipped Cream: In a separate medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes and creates a light, airy whipped cream.
  3. Set Up Cups: Arrange 6 clear plastic 9-ounce punch cups on your countertop or on a cookie sheet to prepare for layering the dessert.
  4. Add Banana Slices: Place the banana slices along the bottom and sides of each cup, ensuring they are visible from the outside to create a visually appealing dessert.
  5. First Pudding Layer: Spoon ¼ cup of the prepared vanilla pudding into the bottom of each cup, spreading it evenly to fully cover the banana slices.
  6. Layer with Nilla Wafers: Add 4 to 5 Nilla Wafer cookies on top of the pudding in each cup, placing the cookies so the rounded sides face outward and are visible through the cups.
  7. Add Whipped Cream Layer: Spoon ¼ cup of the whipped cream into each cup and spread it evenly to cover the cookies completely.
  8. Add Remaining Pudding: Divide the remaining vanilla pudding evenly among the cups, layering it on top of the whipped cream.
  9. Final Garnishes: Top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream and a Nilla Wafer cookie for garnish. If serving immediately, add a slice of banana on top as well to enhance presentation.

Notes

  • For best texture, chill the pudding thoroughly before assembling the cups.
  • Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from turning brown quickly.
  • Prepare the whipped cream just before assembling to maintain its fluffiness.
  • These cups can be assembled a few hours in advance and refrigerated, but add the final banana slice garnish just before serving.
  • You can substitute gluten-free vanilla cookies to make this dessert gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American