Layered Banana Pudding Dessert (Print-Friendly Recipe)

Creamy layered pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers create a classic, crowd-pleasing Southern-style treat.

# Ingredients List:

→ Filling

01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 - 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
03 - 5 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
06 - 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed

→ Assembly

07 - 12 ounces vanilla wafer cookies
08 - 5 to 7 bananas, peeled and sliced into coins

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
02 - Incorporate sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese. Blend until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
03 - Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until evenly incorporated.
04 - Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafer cookies along the bottom of a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Distribute half of the sliced bananas evenly over the cookies.
05 - Spoon half of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the bananas. Add another layer of vanilla wafer cookies and remaining banana slices.
06 - Spread the remaining pudding mixture as the final layer, ensuring coverage of all bananas.
07 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
08 - Before serving, garnish with additional vanilla wafer cookies and banana slices if desired.

# Extra Information:

01 - For optimal flavor and texture, allow the dessert to chill for several hours. Note that bananas may darken over time but remain safe for consumption.