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Classic Banana Pudding

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A classic Southern banana pudding recipe featuring layers of creamy custard, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers. This recipe is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups cold water
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 pound ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 (11 ounce) package vanilla wafers

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and cold water. Gradually whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth.
  2. In a separate large bowl, beat the 3 cups of cold milk, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture and beat until well combined and smooth.
  4. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain.
  5. Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or trifle bowl.
  6. Top the wafers with a layer of sliced bananas.
  7. Spread about one-third of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
  8. Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas, pudding, ending with a final layer of pudding mixture.
  9. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
  10. To prevent bananas from browning, slice them just before assembling the pudding and ensure they are fully covered by the pudding mixture.

Notes

  • For a no-bake Magnolia-style pudding, use instant pudding and condensed milk, and omit the cream cheese and extra milk.
  • Chill time is crucial for the wafers to soften and absorb the pudding, creating the signature texture.
  • You can make this pudding up to a day in advance.
  • For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the pudding mixture.
  • Consider using slightly underripe bananas for firmer slices that hold their shape better.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/banana-pudding-350-calorie-dessert/