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Classic Banana Pudding

Classic Banana Pudding

Classic Banana Pudding is a creamy, nostalgic dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and smooth vanilla pudding. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion, offering a luscious texture and comforting flavor that delights all ages.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Vanilla Wafers – enough to create multiple layers in your dish
  • Fresh Bananas – 3 to 4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – 1 package (3.4 oz)
  • Milk – 2 cups (for pudding preparation)
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk – 1/2 cup
  • Heavy Whipping Cream – 1 cup (for whipping to soft peaks)
  • Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to enhance creaminess and sweetness.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture to keep it light and airy.
  3. Layer the Ingredients: In a clear glass dish or individual cups, start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by sliced bananas, then spoon a generous layer of pudding mixture on top. Repeat layers until the dish is filled, ending with pudding on top.
  4. Chill It Well: Cover the assembled pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, add a few vanilla wafers or banana slices on top for presentation and added texture.

Notes

  • Use ripe bananas with yellow skin and speckles for the best natural sweetness and texture.
  • Layer evenly to ensure each bite includes wafers, banana, and pudding.
  • Fold whipped cream gently to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
  • Chill the pudding for several hours to soften the wafers perfectly without them becoming mushy.
  • Assemble close to serving time to prevent bananas from browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana pudding, classic dessert, no bake, creamy dessert, southern dessert, vanilla pudding, easy dessert