Are you ready for a dessert that will make your taste buds dance? The Best Banana Pudding combines creamy, rich flavors with a delightful crunch from Nilla wafers and the sweetness of ripe bananas. This recipe is incredibly simple and perfect for busy days when you want to whip up something special. Plus, it’s highly customizable, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 290mg
Why Make The Best Banana Pudding
The Best Banana Pudding is not just a delicious dessert; it’s also a wonderful way to incorporate fruit into your family’s meal. Bananas are a great source of vitamins and fiber, making this pudding both tasty and a little healthier than typical sweet treats. It’s an excellent option for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family night—everyone loves it! With its ability to be prepared ahead of time, you can easily make this dish in advance and chill it until your guests arrive.
How to Make The Best Banana Pudding Step by Step
Ingredients
1 can sweetened condensed milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups milk
1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box Nilla wafers
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and cream cheese, mixing until smooth.
- Add milk and pudding mix, whisking until well combined.
- In a serving dish, layer Nilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
How to Serve The Best Banana Pudding
Serve The Best Banana Pudding chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added indulgence. It pairs excellently with a side of fresh strawberries or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a twist, drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate fudge on top just before serving to elevate the dessert.
How to Store The Best Banana Pudding
To store The Best Banana Pudding, keep it covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. Avoid reheating as it’s best served cold. If you want to make it ahead and freeze it, consider freezing just the pudding mixture; add fresh bananas and Nilla wafers when you’re ready to serve.
Expert Tips for Cooking The Best Banana Pudding
- Use fully ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Layer the bananas in between the pudding to prevent browning.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in your pudding if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
- For an added crunch, consider using crushed Nilla wafers as a topping.
Delicious Variations of The Best Banana Pudding
For a twist on The Best Banana Pudding, try adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice infusion. You could also experiment with different flavors of pudding mix, such as chocolate or butterscotch. For a citrusy touch, add some lemon zest or a splash of orange juice to the pudding mixture.
Indulge in The Best Banana Pudding today! It’s a delightful treat everyone will love. With its creamy texture and sweet layers, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for more.
