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Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers to cover the bottom of the dish Recipe

Creamy Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe


  • Author: Lila
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This recipe for The Best Banana Pudding Ever is a creamy, luscious layered dessert featuring vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat. The blend of smooth pudding, fresh bananas, and crispy wafers creates a delightful combination that melts in your mouth.


Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Mixture

  • 1 box (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Layers

  • 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers
  • 56 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Dish: Set out a 9×13 inch baking dish nearby as your workspace for assembling the layers of this dessert.
  2. Mix Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to set.
  3. Add Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until the pudding mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  4. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently incorporate the thawed whipped topping using a spatula, mixing carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
  5. Layer Wafers: Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers to cover the bottom of the baking dish evenly.
  6. Layer Bananas: Place a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, ensuring good coverage.
  7. Layer Pudding: Spoon half of the pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer, smoothing gently with the spatula.
  8. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of vanilla wafers on top of the pudding, followed by another layer of banana slices.
  9. Top with Remaining Pudding: Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the bananas, then smooth the surface with a spatula for an even finish.
  10. Garnish: Crush a few additional vanilla wafers and sprinkle them over the top for added texture and decoration.
  11. Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and wafers soften perfectly.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness in the pudding.
  • For a richer taste, substitute half the cold milk with cream.
  • The dessert can be made a day ahead, as chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
  • To keep the pudding from becoming too watery, avoid over-slicing the bananas too thin.
  • Leftovers should be covered and refrigerated; consume within 3 days for best quality.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake, Layered Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: banana pudding, layered dessert, vanilla wafers, easy banana dessert, no-bake dessert