Description
This classic Blue Ribbon Banana Pudding combines creamy vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers into a luscious layered dessert. Rich, yet lightened with cool whip, it’s a nostalgic treat perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Banana Pudding Base
- 3.4 oz packet vanilla pudding mix
- 1.5 cups cold milk
- 12 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz cool whip, divided
Additional Ingredients
- 5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 12 oz box vanilla wafers
- Remaining 8 oz cool whip for topping
Instructions
- Make the pudding mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Chill the mixture for 5 minutes to allow it to set slightly.
- Incorporate whipped topping: Gently fold 8 oz of cool whip into the chilled pudding mixture to create a light, creamy texture.
- Assemble the layers: In a serving dish, layer one-third of the pudding mixture, followed by a layer of vanilla wafers, then sliced bananas. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing the last layer with pudding.
- Add final topping and chill: Spread the remaining cool whip evenly on top of the final pudding layer. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for 30 to 60 minutes to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle extra vanilla wafers and banana slices on top for added texture and presentation. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and mushiness.
- Chilling time can be extended for a firmer texture.
- Substitute cool whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For a diabetic-friendly version, substitute pudding mix and condensed milk with sugar-free alternatives and use a sugar substitute instead.
