Classic Creamy Banana Pudding (Extra Rich & Dreamy)

 

 Classic Creamy Banana Pudding (Extra Rich & Dreamy)

 Ingredients:

•4–5 ripe bananas (sliced)

•1 box vanilla wafers (like Nilla wafers or any tea biscuits)

•2 cups cold milk

•1 cup heavy whipping cream

•1 package (3.4 oz / 96g) instant vanilla pudding mix

•1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk

•1 teaspoon vanilla extract

•1 ½ cups whipped cream (or homemade whipped topping)

•Optional: cream cheese (½ cup) for extra richness

 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, pour the cold milk.

Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken.

In another bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing gently.

If using cream cheese, beat it separately until smooth, then mix it into the pudding mixture for a thicker, richer texture.

Now fold everything together gently — pudding + whipped cream mixture — until smooth and creamy. Don’t overmix. You want it fluffy and silky.

Step 2: Layer the Dessert

Take a glass baking dish (like the one in your picture).

 First layer: Arrange vanilla wafers at the bottom.

 Second layer: Add a layer of sliced bananas.

 Third layer: Pour a generous layer of the creamy pudding mixture.

Repeat the layers until the dish is full.

Make sure the final layer is cream. Smooth it beautifully on top.

Step 3: Chill & Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours (overnight is even better).

This step is VERY important so the cookies soften and absorb the creamy flavor.

Step 4: Final Touch

Before serving, you can:

•Add fresh banana slices on top

•Crush some wafers

•Or add extra whipped cream like in the picture 

 Tips for Best Results:

 Use ripe bananas (yellow with small brown spots = sweeter flavor)

 Don’t skip chilling time

 If you want it extra decadent, drizzle caramel sauce between layers

 Best eaten within 24–36 hours

It’s soft, creamy, sweet, and melts in your mouth 

Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dessert.