Banana Pudding No Bake Dessert Recipe

Introduction

Banana pudding is a classic no-bake dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and delightfully easy to prepare. This layered treat combines smooth banana pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla Wafers for a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 5.1 ounce box instant banana pudding (larger box)
• 3 cups whole milk
• 8 ounce tub whipped topping, thawed (Cool Whip)
• 11 ounce box Nilla Wafers
• 5 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, use an electric hand mixer at medium speed to whip the softened cream cheese until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the instant banana pudding mix with whole milk. Mix with an electric hand mixer at medium speed until fully combined, or whisk by hand.
3. Step 3: Add the pudding mixture to the whipped cream cheese. Mix again with the hand mixer at medium speed until thoroughly combined, scraping the bottom of the bowl with a spatula as needed. Set aside.
4. Step 4: Line the bottom of a 2.5 quart baking dish (or 9×9-inch or 11×7-inch dish) with a layer of Nilla Wafers.
5. Step 5: Spread one-third of the pudding mixture evenly over the wafers.
6. Step 6: Layer sliced bananas on top of the pudding.
7. Step 7: Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with pudding and bananas.
8. Step 8: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the final layer.
9. Step 9: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For softer wafers, chill for 2 hours or overnight.
10. Step 10: Optional: Crush a few Nilla Wafers and sprinkle on top before serving for extra crunch and decoration.

Tips & Variations

• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning too quickly in the pudding.
• For a lighter version, substitute half of the whole milk with almond milk or another milk alternative.
• Add a dash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture for extra flavor depth.
• Try layering with additional fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.

Storage

Store the banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled. Refrain from freezing, as the texture of the whipped topping and bananas may change. Before serving leftovers, you can gently stir or add a fresh layer of whipped topping if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

Yes, you can substitute banana pudding mix with vanilla or French vanilla pudding, but the banana flavor will be less pronounced. Adding extra bananas can help maintain the taste.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

Use ripe bananas just before they turn overripe and slice them right before assembling to minimize browning. You can also brush the slices with a little lemon juice to keep them fresh-looking longer.

Banana Pudding No Bake Dessert Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 70 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and delicious no-bake banana pudding dessert featuring layers of instant banana pudding, cream cheese, whipped topping, ripe bananas, and crunchy Nilla Wafers. Ready in minutes and chilled to perfection, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cream Cheese Mixture

• 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature

For the Pudding

• 5.1 ounces box instant banana pudding (larger box)
• 3 cups whole milk

Other Ingredients

• 8 ounce tub whipped topping, thawed (Cool Whip)
• 11 ounce box Nilla Wafers
• 5 ripe bananas, sliced

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Instructions

1. Whip the Cream Cheese: In a bowl, add the softened 8-ounce block of cream cheese. Use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed to whip until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Set aside once creamy.
2. Prepare the Instant Pudding: In a separate bowl, combine the 5.1-ounce box of instant banana pudding mix with 3 cups of whole milk. Mix using an electric hand mixer at medium speed or whisk by hand until fully combined and thickened.
3. Combine Cream Cheese and Pudding Mixture: Transfer the prepared pudding into the whipped cream cheese bowl. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to blend the two mixtures thoroughly, occasionally scraping the bottom with a rubber spatula to ensure complete blending. Set the combined mixture aside.
4. Layer the Base: Line the bottom of a 2.5-quart baking dish (or a 9×9-inch or 11×7-inch dish) evenly with Nilla Wafers, covering the entire bottom surface.
5. First Pudding Layer: Spread one-third of the pudding mixture evenly over the Nilla Wafers layer.
6. Add Bananas: Layer sliced bananas over the pudding evenly.
7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers two more times—Nilla Wafers, pudding mixture, then bananas—to build up the dessert.
8. Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the 8-ounce tub of thawed whipped topping evenly on the very top layer.
9. Chill: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For softer Nilla Wafers, refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften fully.
10. Optional Topping: Before serving, optionally crush a few Nilla Wafers and sprinkle them over the top for added texture and decoration.

Notes

• Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture.
• Chilling time affects the softness of the Nilla Wafers; longer refrigeration results in softer wafers.
• Can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
• To make slicing easier, use a sharp knife after chilling.
• Variations: Substitute light milk or half-and-half for fewer calories, or use banana-flavored whipped topping for enhanced banana flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: banana pudding, no bake dessert, easy banana dessert, layered pudding, Nilla Wafers, instant pudding dessert, creamy banana pudding