The Best Banana Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 packet instant vanilla pudding mix (standard size)
• 2 cup milk (cold)
• 8 oz cream cheese (one block, softened)
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (one can)
• 8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip, thawed)
• 11 oz vanilla wafer cookies (one box, divided)
• 4 bananas (sliced)

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium mixing bowl, combine the packet of vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of milk.

2. 2

   Whisk the pudding and milk together for a couple of minutes until it reaches a thick pudding consistency, then set aside.

3. 3

   In a separate large bowl, beat the softened block of cream cheese until smooth.

4. 4

   Add the entire can of sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese and mix until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.

5. 5

   Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula.

6. 6

   Add the prepared vanilla pudding mixture to the cream cheese and whipped topping base, folding gently until fully combined.

7. 7

   Begin layering the dessert in a large bowl or 9x13 inch dish. Start with a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom.

8. 8

   Place a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.

9. 9

   Pour the entire pudding mixture over the banana layer and spread it evenly.

10. 10

    Top the pudding with more vanilla wafer cookies, arranging them neatly for presentation.

Notes

Pro tip: Serve with a little dollop of peanut butter on top for an extra flavor boost. For best results, let the pudding chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cookies to soften slightly.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• banana pudding
• no-bake
• southern
• vintage recipe
• party food
• sweet