Description
This Banana Pudding Lasagna is a decadent, no-bake layered dessert that combines a buttery vanilla wafer crust, creamy whipped cream and cream cheese filling, luscious vanilla pudding enriched with sweetened condensed milk, and fresh banana slices. Chilled to perfection, it offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it an impressive yet easy treat for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Vanilla Wafer Crust
- 15 ounce box vanilla wafers
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Whipped Cream
- 2 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Vanilla Pudding Layer
- 5 ounce package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups cold milk
Additional Layers
- 5 large bananas, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare Vanilla Wafer Crust: Place 3 cups (210 grams) of vanilla wafers into a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, crush them in a large resealable bag using a rolling pin until you have about 2 cups of crumbs. Transfer to a medium bowl and mix with melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing other components.
- Make Whipped Cream: Using an electric hand or stand mixer on medium-low speed, beat the heavy cream until it becomes frothy. Add in 1/3 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Increase the speed to medium-high and continue beating until firm peaks form.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese and 1/4 cup granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 2 cups of the prepared whipped cream until fully incorporated. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled vanilla wafer crust. Return to refrigerator temporarily.
- Prepare Vanilla Pudding Layer: In a third bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix. Allow it to sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to thicken. Once thickened, stir in sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Assemble Layers: Place a single layer of vanilla wafers over the cream cheese filling. Then evenly distribute sliced bananas over the wafers, allowing for slight overlap. Pour the prepared pudding evenly over the banana layer and smooth the top carefully.
- Finish with Whipped Cream: Spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the pudding layer. Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow all layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle additional crushed vanilla wafer crumbs over the top and adorn with extra banana slices if desired. Slice and enjoy this creamy, delightful dessert.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and sogginess.
- This dessert is best made a day ahead to allow layers to set perfectly.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator covered tightly; consume within 3 days.
- You can substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduce sugar slightly for a lighter version, though texture and flavor may vary.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
