Description: A classic Southern dessert, this banana pudding is layered with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and a luscious whipped topping. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 (11 oz) box Vanilla Wafers
- 4 to 6 ripe bananas, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness
- 2 cups cold milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 (5 oz) box Instant French Vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed completely, or 3 cups homemade sweetened whipped cream
Preparation:
Step 1: Wafer and Banana Foundation: Begin by arranging half of the vanilla wafers in a single, even layer on the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish. Don’t worry about perfect coverage; a few gaps are perfectly fine. The cookies will soften as they sit in the pudding. Next, evenly distribute the sliced bananas over the layer of vanilla wafers. Ensure that the bananas are relatively evenly spaced for a consistent banana flavor throughout the pudding. If you’re preparing the pudding in advance, consider lightly coating the banana slices with lemon juice or pineapple juice to prevent browning. However, using ripe but firm bananas will also help maintain their color and texture.
Step 2: The Pudding Base: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the cold milk and the instant French vanilla pudding mix. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to ensure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Continue mixing for about 2 minutes, or until the pudding starts to thicken slightly. The cold milk is essential for activating the pudding mix properly. Set the pudding aside for a few minutes to allow it to thicken further while you prepare the cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Cream Cheese Magic: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Using the hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it is completely smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps. This step is crucial for achieving the silky texture of the pudding. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; otherwise, it will be difficult to incorporate smoothly. Periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully combined. This creates the luxurious and decadent base of the pudding, adding richness and depth of flavor.
Step 4: Folding in the Goodness: Gently fold the thickened pudding into the cream cheese mixture. Use a rubber spatula to incorporate the two mixtures together, ensuring everything is evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can deflate the pudding and affect its final texture. Fold in the thawed whipped topping (or your freshly made sweetened whipped cream) in the same gentle manner, being careful not to overmix. This step is vital for creating the light, airy, and cloud-like texture of the pudding. The whipped topping adds a delicate sweetness and enhances the overall mouthfeel of the dessert.
Step 5: Layering and Chilling: Pour the combined pudding mixture evenly over the layer of bananas and vanilla wafers. Spread it gently to ensure the bananas are fully covered. Top the pudding layer with the remaining vanilla wafers, arranging them in a single layer to cover the entire surface. You can break some of the wafers to fill in any gaps. Lightly press the wafers into the pudding to help them adhere. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent the pudding from drying out or absorbing any unwanted flavors from the refrigerator. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Southern Comfort Banana Pudding is a beloved classic for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal baking and utilizing readily available ingredients. The combination of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, crisp vanilla wafers, and a rich cream cheese base creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s the perfect comfort food dessert, ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a sweet treat on a warm day. The recipe is also very versatile – you can adjust the amount of bananas to your liking, experiment with different flavored pudding mixes, or even add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch. This banana pudding is guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- Garnish with extra banana slices, a dollop of whipped cream, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
- Dust with a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch.
- Serve in individual parfait glasses for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or sweet tea for the ultimate Southern comfort experience.
Tips:
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Soften the cream cheese completely to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Chill the pudding for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor and texture.
- If preparing the pudding in advance, consider adding a layer of whipped cream just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- For a more intense banana flavor, use banana-flavored pudding mix instead of vanilla.
- If you don’t have instant pudding mix, you can use cooked pudding, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of milk accordingly.
- To keep the banana slices from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them in the pudding.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (chilling time required)
Total Time: 4 hours, 20 minutes (including chilling)
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion:
Southern Comfort Banana Pudding is a timeless classic that delivers pure comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its simple preparation and delightful flavors make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this banana pudding is sure to bring a smile to your face. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality right in your own kitchen!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I make this banana pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead is ideal. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the vanilla wafers to soften perfectly. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. - Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, absolutely! Homemade sweetened whipped cream will definitely elevate the flavor and texture of the pudding. Use about 3 cups of heavy cream, and beat it with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. - My bananas always turn brown. How can I prevent that?
A great tip is to lightly toss the banana slices with lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them into the pudding. The acidity helps to prevent oxidation and keeps the bananas looking fresh. You can also use slightly underripe bananas, as they tend to brown less quickly. - I don’t have instant pudding mix. Can I use cooked pudding?
Yes, you can, but you’ll need to adjust the recipe. Prepare the cooked vanilla pudding according to package directions, using slightly less milk than specified to ensure a thicker consistency. Allow the pudding to cool completely before folding it into the cream cheese mixture. Be sure to check it’s not too thick before folding in the cream cheese mixture - Can I add any other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Some popular additions include a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch, a layer of sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! You could also add a very thin layer of homemade custard to the bottom to make it richer.
