Creamy Layered Banana Dessert

This layered banana pudding recipe is a classic Southern dessert that is always a crowd-pleaser. It is creamy, full of flavor, and comes together in just minutes. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you want a sweet treat without a lot of fuss.

I first made this layered banana pudding for a family reunion and it disappeared so fast my relatives asked for the recipe right away. It has since become a staple whenever I want to impress with minimal effort.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cream cheese softened to room temperature: makes the pudding rich and creamy. Use full fat for the best texture
• Sweetened condensed milk: adds sweetness and smoothness, choose a high-quality brand for a silkier finish
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: gives the pudding structure and extra vanilla flavor, look for the classic package for best results
• Milk: helps blend the pudding mix and sweetened condensed milk into a smooth consistency, whole milk is preferred
• Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors, use pure vanilla extract for a richer taste
• Cool Whip whipped topping thawed: lightens the mixture and adds fluffiness, thaw completely for easy folding
• Nilla wafers: provide a crisp, sweet crunch, pick fresh boxes to maintain crunchiness
• Bananas peeled and sliced into coins: fresh, ripe bananas ensure natural sweetness and softness but not overripe to avoid browning too fast

How to Make It

Spoon up Cream the Base:

Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy. This step ensures the pudding is creamy and free of lumps.

Mix the Sweet Layers:

Add in the sweetened condensed milk, instant pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until everything is fully combined and creamy.

Fold in the Fluff:

Stir in half of the thawed Cool Whip whipped topping gently but thoroughly to lighten the pudding mixture without deflating it.

First Layer Assembly:

Line the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish with one layer of Nilla wafers. Place half of the banana slices evenly over the wafers.

Add the Creamy Filling:

Spread half of the pudding mixture over the banana layer, smoothing it out to cover the fruit evenly.

Second Layer:

Add another layer of Nilla wafers on top of the pudding. Follow with the remaining banana slices.

Finish with Pudding:

Spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the bananas as the top layer.

Chill to Set:

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is essential for the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly.

Final Touch:

Remove the pudding from the refrigerator just before serving. Garnish with extra Nilla wafers and banana slices for presentation and added texture.

My favorite part has always been that silky cream cheese and pudding blend that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Serving this at family gatherings always brings back warm memories of my grandmother’s kitchen where this beloved dessert was a featured star.

Flavor Boosters

Serve chilled straight from the fridge. Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture contrast. Pair with coffee or sweet dessert wine for an indulgent experience.

Serving Suggestions

Layered banana pudding is a celebrated Southern dessert that originated from classic trifle concepts but evolved with local American ingredients. It’s a nostalgic dish evoking comfort and hospitality.

Creative Twists

In summer, use fresh, ripe bananas and serve chilled with seasonal berries for added color. During holidays, sprinkle with toasted coconut or add cinnamon to the pudding mix to warm the flavors.

This dessert combines ease and elegance, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bananas work best?

Ripe but firm bananas provide the ideal sweetness and texture, ensuring they hold their shape well in layers.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the layers meld and firm up for optimal texture.

→ How do I keep bananas from browning?

Refrigerate promptly after assembling, but some browning is natural over time; fresh assembly minimizes discoloration.

→ Are there substitutions for Nilla wafers?

Light, crisp cookies like vanilla or butter wafers work well as substitutes without overpowering flavors.

→ What role does the cream cheese play?

Cream cheese adds richness and a smooth, fluffy texture that balances the sweetness of the pudding and fruit.

→ Is it necessary to use instant pudding mix?

Instant vanilla pudding mix speeds preparation and helps the dessert set but homemade pudding can be used with adjustments.