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Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe


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4.1 from 20 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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