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Easy Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe

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4.2 from 45 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers is a classic Southern dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers. Combining smooth cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk with instant pudding mix, this no-bake dessert is topped with Cool Whip for a light, fluffy finish. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat, it requires minimal prep and chilling time for best results.

Ingredients

Banana Pudding Mixture

  • 8 ounces softened cream cheese
  • 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 3/4 cups cold milk
  • 4 ounces Cool Whip (half of an 8-ounce tub)

Assembly & Topping

  • 60 vanilla wafers (may need more if using a 9 x 13 pan)
  • 5-7 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 4 ounces Cool Whip (remaining half)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cream Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing until the mixture is free of lumps and well combined.
  2. Make Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Pour the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture and stir until fully blended and smooth.
  4. Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold half of the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture, maintaining a light and airy texture.
  5. Layer the Pudding: In your chosen dish, begin by lining the bottom with a layer of vanilla wafers. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, then spread a layer of the pudding mixture evenly on top. Repeat the layering process 1-3 times depending on your dish size; four layers work best for a trifle dish with 12-16 wafers per layer, while one to two layers suit a 9 x 13 pan.
  6. Top with Cool Whip: Spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly over the top layer of pudding to serve as a light topping.
  7. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set. Overnight chilling yields best texture and flavor.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, crush a few vanilla wafers and sprinkle them over the top Cool Whip layer. Optionally, serve with additional fresh banana slices on the side.
  9. Storage: Keep any leftover banana pudding stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and maintain good texture.
  • For a firmer pudding, refrigerate overnight instead of just 4 hours.
  • Adjust the number of vanilla wafers depending on the size of your dish and layering preferences.
  • Whipping the cream cheese well prevents lumps in the pudding mixture.
  • This dessert is best served chilled and should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American Southern

Find it online: https://aminabakes.com/easy-banana-pudding-with-vanilla-wafers-recipe/