Banana Cream Pudding

Banana Cream Pudding is a classic, comforting dessert that’s creamy, smooth, and full of fresh banana flavor. It’s simple to make, yet absolutely delicious with its layers of vanilla pudding, banana slices, and a light whipped topping. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party!

Here’s a tasty recipe for Banana Cream Pudding:

Banana Cream Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

For the pudding:

• 1 box (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 1/2 cups cold milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the layers:

• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box Nilla wafers or any vanilla wafer cookies

For the whipped topping:

• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or heavy cream (whipped)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pudding:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
• Stir in the vanilla extract and the sweetened condensed milk (if using) to make it extra creamy. Let the pudding sit and set for a few minutes.

2. Assemble the Layers:

• In a large bowl, a trifle dish, or individual dessert cups, begin by layering Nilla wafers at the bottom.
• Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cookies.
• Spoon a generous layer of the vanilla pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula.
• Repeat the layers (cookies, bananas, pudding) until you’ve used up all your ingredients. Make sure the top layer is pudding.

3. Top with Whipped Topping:

• Spread the whipped topping evenly over the final layer of pudding. You can use store-bought whipped topping or whip your own heavy cream to soft peaks and use that instead.
• Garnish the top with additional banana slices and Nilla wafers for decoration, if desired.

4. Chill:

• Cover and refrigerate the pudding for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture.

5. Serve:

• Once chilled, serve your Banana Cream Pudding, and enjoy the creamy, banana-filled goodness!

Tips:

• Bananas: If you want to prevent the bananas from browning, you can lightly coat them with a little lemon juice before layering them in the pudding.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: If you want to make your own whipped cream, beat 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• Flavor variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mix for a warm spice note, or sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for a chocolatey twist.

This Banana Cream Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, with layers of smooth pudding, fresh bananas, and creamy whipped topping. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a treat to enjoy any time!