Layered Banana Pudding Dessert (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy layered banana pudding with Nilla wafers and fresh bananas, perfect for a Southern-inspired treat.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Base and Fillings

01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 - 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
03 - 5 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
06 - 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
07 - 12 ounces vanilla wafer cookies
08 - 5 to 7 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced into rounds

# How to Make It:

01 - Using an electric mixer set to medium speed, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
02 - Add sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract to the beaten cream cheese. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
03 - Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the mixture until no streaks remain.
04 - Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafer cookies along the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with half of the banana slices.
05 - Spread half of the pudding mixture over the bananas and cookies, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
06 - Add a second layer of vanilla wafer cookies and the remaining banana slices. Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the top, spreading evenly.
07 - Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
08 - Before serving, garnish with extra vanilla wafer cookies and fresh banana slices as desired.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For optimal texture and flavor, chill the pudding overnight to ensure the layers set properly. Note that bananas may darken with extended refrigeration, but they remain safe and enjoyable to eat.