Not Your Mama’s Banana Pudding

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not Your Mama’s Banana Pudding is a rich and creamy twist on the classic Southern dessert. This indulgent version layers buttery cookies, fresh bananas, and a decadent pudding mixture made with cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped topping. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want a nostalgic dessert with a gourmet upgrade.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cream cheesewhipped topping (like Cool Whip)sweetened condensed milkinstant vanilla pudding mixcold milkvanilla extractbananasbutter cookies (such as Chessmen or shortbread)

directions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.

Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and cold milk. Mix until well combined.

Stir in the instant pudding mix and continue mixing until the mixture thickens slightly.

Gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly incorporated.

Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish with a layer of butter cookies.

Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.

Spread half of the pudding mixture over the bananas.

Repeat with another layer of cookies, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture.

Top with a final layer of cookies.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours or overnight
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Use banana-flavored pudding for an extra boost of banana flavor.

Swap butter cookies with vanilla wafers or graham crackers.

Add a layer of caramel drizzle for a richer taste.

Sprinkle crushed toffee or chocolate chips between layers for texture.

Use homemade whipped cream for a more natural flavor.

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture may become watery.
Serve chilled; no reheating is required.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully cooled before layering to avoid soggy cookies.

What kind of cookies work best?

Butter cookies like Pepperidge Farm Chessmen are ideal for their flavor and texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely, it actually tastes better when made a day in advance.

Is it overly sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by the cream cheese and bananas, making it rich but not overwhelming.

Can I use fresh whipped cream?

Yes, substitute an equal amount of stabilized whipped cream for Cool Whip.

Is it safe to leave out overnight?

No, always refrigerate due to the dairy ingredients.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy texture.

Can I make it in individual cups?

Yes, layer the ingredients in parfait cups or jars for a portable version.

What if I don’t have condensed milk?

You can substitute with sweetened evaporated milk and a bit of sugar, but the flavor may vary.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for crunch.

Conclusion

Not Your Mama’s Banana Pudding is an irresistible upgrade to the traditional favorite, blending creamy richness with the nostalgic charm of banana and cookie layers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a comforting dessert, this no-bake recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, it might just become your new go-to dessert.

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