Description
This classic Banana Pudding recipe features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, all topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfectly chilled and layered in a glass trifle bowl, this dessert is an irresistible treat for family gatherings and celebrations, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Pudding Mixture
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (5.1 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix (6 serving size)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Layers
- 5 ripe bananas
- 1 (11 ounce) package vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer to beat the ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Pudding Mix and Flavorings: Incorporate the instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating with the hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined, allowing it to thicken.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using a hand mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form, taking care not to over-beat.
- Combine Whipped Cream and Pudding Mixture: Reserve 2½ cups of the whipped cream for topping later. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the pudding mixture, using a spatula to combine carefully to maintain the airy texture.
- Layer the Banana Pudding: Line the bottom of a glass trifle bowl with a single layer of vanilla wafers. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers. Spread a layer of the pudding and whipped cream mixture over the bananas, making sure to cover them completely. Repeat these layers (wafers, bananas, pudding mixture) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding mixture.
- Top and Chill: Spread the reserved whipped cream evenly over the top layer of pudding. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, optionally garnish the top with extra banana slices or crumbled vanilla wafers for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- For firmer pudding, chill overnight.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Handle the whipped cream gently when folding to keep the pudding light and airy.
- Vanilla wafers soften as they sit in the pudding, creating a cake-like texture.
- Can be made a day ahead for convenience.
