Introduction
Nothing says comfort like a classic banana pudding layered dessert! This delightful treat is not only a nostalgic favorite but also a real crowd-pleaser. With its creamy texture, sweet bananas, and the crunch of vanilla wafers, each bite is like a little hug for your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just because you deserve a sweet treat, this dessert is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
- 1 large box of vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 bananas, sliced
- 1 box of vanilla wafers
- Additional whipped cream for topping
- Chocolate shavings or banana slices for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk to the pudding mixture and stir until well combined, creating a luscious base.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, turning it into a light and airy whipped cream.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture, stirring carefully until fully blended and the mixture is luxuriously creamy.
- In a trifle dish or a rectangular glass dish, create your layers: start with a generous layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then a layer of the creamy pudding mixture.
- Continue the layering process until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a delightful layer of pudding on top.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to let the flavors meld and the layers set beautifully.
- Before serving, adorn the dessert with additional whipped cream and feel free to sprinkle over some chocolate shavings or add a few banana slices for that extra touch of elegance.
Notes or Tips
This banana pudding layered dessert is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite fruits or even a hint of chocolate to the layers if you’re feeling adventurous! For the best texture, allow it to chill overnight—this helps the vanilla wafers soften and soak up the delicious flavors from the pudding and bananas.
Cooking Techniques
Folding is an essential technique in this recipe. When you combine the whipped cream with the pudding, do so gently to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream. This will ensure a light and fluffy final product that melts in your mouth. Using a rubber spatula is perfect for this task!
FAQ
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best to prepare it a day in advance to let the flavors develop and for the pudding to set properly.
What can I substitute for bananas?
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider using sliced strawberries or peaches for a fresh twist!
Conclusion
This banana pudding layered dessert is more than just a recipe; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings joy to any occasion. With its creamy layers and the irresistible combination of sweet bananas and crunchy wafers, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!