Banana Bliss: The Creamiest, Dreamiest Pudding Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that has been passed down through generations, making its way from the South to tables across the country. The combination of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy cookies makes this dessert a beloved favorite in many households. But this recipe is not just any banana pudding—it’s The Very Best Banana Pudding Ever! Rich and creamy, yet light and fluffy, each bite of this pudding is packed with fresh banana flavor, and it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser and family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering, a family get-together, or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this irresistible dessert:

• 2½ cups heavy whipping cream – For that rich, smooth texture that is essential to the pudding.
• ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the richness of the cream.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – For that warm, aromatic note that elevates the flavor of the entire dish.
• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened – The base of the pudding mixture, giving it that creamy and tangy flavor.
• 14 oz (1 small can) sweetened condensed milk – Brings an indulgent sweetness to the pudding without being too overwhelming.
• 5 oz (1 large box) instant banana pudding mix – The star of the dessert, infusing the pudding with that unmistakable banana flavor.
• 1 cup 2% or whole milk – Used to combine with the dry pudding mix to create the perfect pudding consistency.
• 11 oz (1 box) Nilla Wafers – These iconic cookies form the base and structure of the pudding, giving it that classic crunch.
• About 8 medium bananas, sliced – Fresh, ripe bananas add that natural sweetness and flavor, making this dessert truly exceptional.

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this amazing dessert.

1. Prepare the Pan
   Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray, and set it aside. This will prevent the pudding from sticking to the sides of the dish and ensure an easy cleanup later.
2. Whip the Whipping Cream
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Using the whisk attachment, whip until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes. Once the whipped cream is ready, transfer it to a medium bowl and set it aside.
3. Whip the Cream Cheese Mixture
   In the same stand mixer bowl (no need to clean it), add the softened cream cheese. Using the whisk attachment, whip it until it becomes fluffy and smooth, about 30 seconds. Add in the sweetened condensed milk and beat until smooth and no lumps of cream cheese remain. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to make sure everything is incorporated.
4. Add the Dry Pudding Mix
   Once the cream cheese and milk are fully combined, add the dry banana pudding mix. Mix it well, ensuring that the dry powder is fully dissolved into the creamy base.
5. Add the Milk
   Slowly stream in the milk, mixing as you go until fully combined. This will create the base of the pudding mixture, which will be rich and smooth with the perfect consistency.
6. Fold in the Whipped Cream
   Now, add about 2/3 of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Gently fold it in with a spatula until fully combined and no whipped cream streaks remain. This step will give the pudding a light, airy texture, making it easy to scoop and serve.
7. Layer the Pudding
   In your prepared 9×13 baking dish, place an even layer of Nilla wafers at the bottom. Then, add a layer of sliced banana coins, ensuring they are spread evenly over the cookies. Next, top with half of the pudding mixture and spread it evenly over the bananas and cookies.
8. Repeat the Layers
   Repeat the process by adding another layer of Nilla wafers, followed by another layer of sliced bananas, and then the remaining pudding mixture. Spread it evenly to cover the bananas and cookies.
9. Top with Whipped Cream
   Finish the layers by topping the pudding with the remaining 1/3 of the whipped cream. Spread it evenly over the top layer of pudding.
10. Chill the Pudding
    Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld together and for the pudding to set to the perfect consistency.
11. Garnish and Serve
    Just before serving, crush any remaining Nilla wafers and sprinkle them over the top of the pudding for an added crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

This The Very Best Banana Pudding Ever recipe requires at least 8 hours to chill, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert. However, due to the bananas’ tendency to brown, it’s recommended to consume the pudding within 2 days for the best taste and appearance.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to enjoy it while it’s fresh!

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Cool Whip Substitute: If you prefer, you can replace the whipped cream with a 12-ounce tub of thawed Cool Whip. If using Cool Whip, omit the heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract, and proceed with the rest of the recipe as normal.
• Cookies Substitute: While Nilla Wafers are traditional, you can use shortbread cookies or Chessman cookies as a substitute for the wafers, depending on your taste preferences.

Tips for Success

1. Bananas: Use bananas that are just barely ripe—too ripe and they will brown quickly. Fresh, firm bananas will provide the perfect texture and flavor for this dessert.
2. Whipping Cream: Be sure to whip the cream until stiff peaks form, as this is what gives the pudding its light and fluffy texture.
3. Make-Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead. It needs at least 8 hours in the refrigerator to set properly, so it’s an ideal choice for a potluck or dinner party.
4. Personalize It: Feel free to experiment with the flavor! Try adding a few chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra twist.

Why This Banana Pudding is the Best

This The Very Best Banana Pudding Ever isn’t just your average banana pudding—it’s an elevated version of a classic. The whipped cream adds airiness, while the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk create a rich, indulgent base. The bananas provide natural sweetness and freshness, and the Nilla wafers give the perfect balance of crunch. Whether it’s served at a family gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself, this banana pudding is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

The combination of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy cookies is an irresistible combination that will leave you coming back for more. And with its ease of preparation and make-ahead convenience, it’s perfect for any occasion. So the next time you need a dessert that’s sure to please a crowd, this recipe is your go-to for a guaranteed hit.

Final Thoughts

In the world of comfort food, few desserts are as iconic and satisfying as banana pudding. With this recipe for The Very Best Banana Pudding Ever, you’ll experience all the classic flavors you love but taken to new heights with added richness and a light, airy texture. This dish is more than just a dessert—it’s a family tradition waiting to happen. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, a birthday party, or just because, this banana pudding will always be the star of the show. Try it once, and it’s bound to become your new favorite way to enjoy this timeless dessert.