Ingredients:
– For the Pudding:
– 6 to 7 medium bananas, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
– 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
– 2 cups cold milk
– 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 large tub (16 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
– 1 package (about 12 oz) Nilla Wafers
Optional Garnish:
– Extra whole or halved strawberries
– Mint leaves
– Swirls of whipped cream
Instructions:
Prepare the Whipped Cream:
1. In a large mixing bowl, add heavy whipping cream and beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Make the Pudding Mixture:
3. In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
4. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined.
5. Add both pudding mixes and cold milk, beating for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6. Gently fold in two-thirds of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture.
Assemble the Banana Pudding:
7. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the Nilla Wafer cookies at the bottom.
8. Top with half of the banana slices.
9. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
10. Repeat the layers with the remaining Nilla Wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture.
Garnish and Serve:
11. Top the final layer with the remaining whipped cream.
12. If desired, garnish with extra whole or halved strawberries, mint leaves, and swirls of whipped cream.
13. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy:
This classic, no-bake banana pudding is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings and celebrations!
