Description
This classic Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers is a creamy, layered dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions. Featuring a luscious blend of sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding, and whipped heavy cream, this no-bake treat is layered with crisp vanilla wafers and fresh sliced bananas, then chilled to perfection. The combination of smooth pudding, tender bananas, and crunchy wafers makes for a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Pudding Mixture
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups cold water
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
Whipped Cream
- 3 cups heavy cream
Assembly
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 4 cups sliced bananas
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the sweetened condensed milk and cold water, mixing well for about one minute until fully blended. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
- Whip the cream: Beat the heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape firmly when the beaters are lifted.
- Combine cream and pudding: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture, carefully blending to maintain a light, airy texture without deflating the cream.
- Assemble the banana pudding: In a clear glass bowl that holds about 4 quarts, or alternatively a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, arrange one-third of the vanilla wafers on the bottom. The wafers can be overlapped to cover the base. Layer one-third of the sliced bananas over the wafers, followed by one-third of the pudding mixture. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with the pudding on top.
- Chill before serving: Cover the assembled pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but no longer than 8 hours. If chilled beyond 8 hours, the bananas may begin to brown.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish with a couple of crushed vanilla wafers on top for added texture and presentation.
Notes
- For best texture, assemble the pudding shortly before serving and consume within 8 hours to avoid browning of bananas.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming too mushy in the pudding.
- If desired, lightly brush banana slices with lemon juice to reduce browning when preparing in advance.
- This dessert is best served chilled, so allow sufficient refrigeration time for optimal flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American