Layered Banana Pudding Delight

This layered banana pudding delivers a dreamy taste of nostalgia and comfort in every spoonful. Lush creamy layers of pudding and tangy cream cheese meet ripe bananas and cookie wafers to create a crowd pleasing Southern classic you can make fast with everyday ingredients. Whether for potlucks celebrations or a sweet treat at home this dessert always disappears quickly.

I first made this banana pudding for my neighbor's block party when I needed something simple but impressive. It vanished before anything else on the dessert table and people still ask for the recipe.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Eight ounce block softened to room temperature makes the pudding extra creamy and adds subtle tang choose full fat for richest flavor
• Sweetened condensed milk: Fourteen ounce can brings sweetness and silkiness opt for well known brands for best texture
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: Five ounce package thickens fast and adds comforting vanilla notes check that it is instant not cook and serve
• Milk: Two cups helps the pudding set properly use whole milk for extra richness
• Vanilla extract: Two teaspoons brightens every bite use pure vanilla extract for deepest aroma
• Cool Whip: Eight ounce tub thawed whipped topping gives fluffy softness let it fully thaw for easy mixing
• Nilla Wafers: Twelve ounce box add buttery crunch and classic texture look for cookies with a golden hue and crisp texture
• Bananas: Five to seven peeled and sliced into coins provide fruity flavor and natural sweetness select perfectly yellow bananas with light speckling for best results

How to Make It

Soften and Whip Cream Cheese:

Beat cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed. You want it perfectly smooth and fluffy so start with room temperature cream cheese and beat for about three minutes. Scrape the bowl as needed to avoid any lumps

Mix Pudding Base:

Add the sweetened condensed milk instant vanilla pudding mix milk and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until more than combined you want to blend until the mixture is ultra smooth and thick. Take care not to leave any pockets of cream cheese

Fold in Whipped Topping:

With a spatula stir in half the Cool Whip whipped topping gently. This keeps the base light and airy and makes layering easier

Layer Cookies and Bananas:

Arrange a single layer of Nilla Wafers along the bottom of a nine by thirteen baking dish. Layer half the banana slices evenly over the cookies. The cookies will absorb moisture and soften so spread them fully for the best bite

Add Pudding Mixture:

Spoon half the pudding mixture over the bananas smoothing to the edges. Add another layer of Nilla Wafers and remaining bananas then top with the rest of the pudding. This two step layering gives both a creamy texture and cookie crunch in every serving

Chill and Set:

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. This lets the flavors meld and the pudding firm up for easy scooping

Finish and Serve:

Just before serving garnish with extra Nilla Wafers and fresh banana slices. This adds an extra pretty look and the wafers stay crisp

One of my favorite parts about this banana pudding is how the cookies take on a cake like softness yet there is always that one crispy bit right on top. My grandma taught me to layer extra wafers on the bottom so every scoop has both creamy and crunchy layers. This recipe reminds me so much of summer picnics at her house.

Flavor Boosters

If you cannot find instant vanilla pudding try French vanilla or banana instant pudding for variety in flavor. Homemade whipped cream can substitute for Cool Whip but do not over whip or the texture will not be as light. For a gluten free version use gluten free vanilla cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in individual cups for parties or layer in small mason jars for easy grab and go desserts. Topping with a few chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon can add another special touch. For a holiday brunch this pudding pairs perfectly with fresh berries on the side.

Creative Twists

In summer use extra ripe bananas for a sweeter flavor or add a layer of macerated strawberries. In fall try spiced vanilla pudding and a sprinkle of nutmeg on top. For a spring tea party small scoops of lemon curd can brighten the layers.

Garnish with fresh bananas right before serving to keep their color. For a decorative touch line Nilla Wafers standing up along the sides of the dish.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I keep bananas from darkening?

Slicing bananas just before layering and covering tightly helps slow browning. You can also lightly brush slices with lemon juice for extra protection.

→ Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, freshly whipped cream can be substituted and will add a natural flavor. Ensure it's well whipped to maintain the dessert's texture.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dessert ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor. Add banana slices on top only before serving.

→ What can I use instead of Nilla wafers?

Vanilla cookies or shortbread cookies work well in place of Nilla wafers, providing a similar texture and taste.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers last up to 2 days refrigerated. The bananas may darken, but the dessert remains delicious and safe to eat.