banana pudding with wafers recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best banana pudding with wafers recipe

Banana pudding with wafers is a classic dessert that has always been a favorite in my family. I remember my mom making it for special occasions, and now I carry on the tradition.

This recipe combines the creamy richness of banana pudding with the crispy, sweet crunch of vanilla wafers, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a comforting dessert that evokes memories of home and family gatherings.

The health benefits of bananas, such as potassium and dietary fiber, make this treat a slightly better choice compared to other sugary desserts. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or fancy dinner parties.

The kids love helping me layer the ingredients, and it’s a fun activity that gets them involved in the kitchen.

Banana Pudding with Wafers

4.7 from 1181 votes

A classic Southern dessert featuring layers of creamy banana pudding and crispy vanilla wafers. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pudding

1 box vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 8 oz container frozen whipped topping, thawed
4 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Topping

1 box vanilla wafers
1 8 oz container frozen whipped topping, thawed

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant pudding mix and cold milk.
2Mix well until the pudding thickens.
3This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Set aside.
4In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
5Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined.
6Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
7Layer the ingredients in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8Start with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced bananas.
9Pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, then repeat with another layer of wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture.
10Top with a final layer of wafers and sliced bananas.
11Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding is set.
12Before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the top layer of wafers and bananas.
13Garnish with additional wafers if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Hand mixer
9×13-inch baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 500mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 40g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use fresh or frozen bananas for this recipe. If using frozen bananas, thaw them completely before slicing and adding to the pudding. It is best to assemble the pudding just before serving to prevent the wafers from becoming soggy.

Banana pudding with wafers is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration. The combination of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, and crispy wafers creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great choice for busy households.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for up to three days. Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor. It’s a comforting dessert that brings back memories of home and family. It is always a good idea to have this recipe in your back pocket for any occasion.

It is something that works well for family gatherings and potlucks and I love to bring this to parties. I also love to have this in the fridge for an easy dessert or snack during the week. It is a great way to use up ripe bananas and the kids love to help me make it. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to other sugary desserts, with the added benefits of bananas.

This recipe is a win-win for everyone.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding with Wafers

1. Can I use fresh bananas instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use fresh bananas instead of frozen ones. If using fresh bananas, make sure they are ripe and sweet. Slice them just before adding to the pudding to prevent browning.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Assemble the pudding and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving. Add the whipped topping just before serving to prevent the wafers from becoming soggy.

3. Can I use a different type of wafer?

Yes, you can use a different type of wafer if you prefer. However, vanilla wafers are traditional and provide a nice contrast to the creamy banana pudding. If you have dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free or low-sugar wafers.

4. Can I freeze banana pudding?

It is not recommended to freeze banana pudding as the texture of the bananas and wafers may change upon thawing. It is best to store it in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.

5. Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

Yes, you can make this recipe without cream cheese. Simply omit it from the recipe and add an extra 1/2 cup of whipped topping to the pudding mixture. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

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