Easy Banana Pudding

This no-bake Banana Pudding is a quick and delicious twist on the classic Southern dessert. With layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Using instant pudding mix, cream cheese, and sweetened condensed milk makes this recipe extra rich and indulgent while still being simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 box Vanilla Wafers (about 40 cookies)
• 4–5 medium bananas, sliced
• 3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk for a lighter option)
• 1 box (3.4 oz) Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk
• 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip (thawed), or an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually fold the sweetened condensed milk into the cream cheese, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
4. Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until evenly blended. The mixture will be thick and creamy.
5. Fold in the thawed Cool Whip (or sweetened whipped cream) until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Assemble the Banana Pudding

1. In a trifle dish, large glass bowl, or individual serving dishes, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
3. Spread a generous layer of the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4. Repeat the layers—vanilla wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.

Step 3: Chill and Set

1. Cover the assembled banana pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Before serving, garnish the top with additional banana slices, crushed vanilla wafers, or a dollop of Cool Whip for extra flair.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy every creamy, banana-filled bite!

Tips for Success

• Banana Selection: Use ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture. Overripe bananas may become mushy when layered.
• Prevent Browning: Toss the banana slices with a little lemon juice or orange juice before layering to keep them from browning.
• Whipped Cream Option: If you prefer homemade whipped cream, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better the next day as the cookies soften and the flavors deepen. Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Banana Pudding is a no-fuss, decadent dessert that combines creamy layers of pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The addition of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk makes it extra rich and indulgent, while the Cool Whip adds a light, airy finish. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, serving it at a family dinner, or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Dive into this creamy, dreamy delight and savor every bite!