This delicious banana pudding is inspired by the classic combination of ripe bananas and creamy condensed milk, making it the perfect easy dessert for any occasion. With layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and rich pudding, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Part 1: Making the Perfect Pudding 🍌
Ingredients for the Pudding:
- 2 Cups Cold Milk: Use whole milk for a creamier texture, but any milk will work.
- 1 (5-ounce) Package Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This quick mix creates the perfect base for your dessert.
- 1 (14-ounce) Can Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and sweetness to the pudding.
- 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and adds warmth to the pudding.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Gradually whisk in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until the pudding is smooth and well combined. The result is a rich, velvety pudding with just the right amount of sweetness.
🎨 Pro Tip: For an extra creamy pudding, substitute the cold milk with heavy whipping cream. This will create an even richer texture that’s perfect for a decadent dessert.
Part 2: Assembling the Dessert
Ingredients for Layering:
Ingredients for Layering:
- 1 (16-ounce) Package Vanilla Wafers: These classic cookies add texture and flavor to each bite.
- 3-4 Bananas, Sliced: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
Instructions:
- Layer the Dessert:
- In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, start by layering a single layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Next, add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
- Spoon a generous layer of the prepared pudding over the bananas, spreading it out evenly.
- Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas, and pudding, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
🥄 Individual Servings: For a fun twist, assemble the dessert in individual glass bowls or mason jars. This makes for a great presentation and easy serving at parties or gatherings.
Part 3: Chilling and Serving
Instructions:
- Chill the Pudding:
- Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften slightly, creating a more cohesive and delicious dessert.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Before serving, you can add your favorite toppings for extra flavor and texture. Consider whipped cream for a light, airy topping, a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a touch of decadence, or chopped nuts for a crunchy contrast.
🍫 Extra Ideas: Experiment with different pudding flavors like chocolate or butterscotch, or add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mix for a spiced twist. These variations can add a unique flair to the classic dessert.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your bananas are ripe but not overly soft for the best texture.
- Layering is Key: Proper layering ensures that each bite has a balance of wafers, bananas, and pudding.
- Chill Properly: Allow enough chilling time for the dessert to set and for the flavors to fully develop.
This banana pudding with condensed milk is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and sure to please any crowd. With its creamy texture, sweet banana flavor, and nostalgic taste of vanilla wafers, it’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a simple treat at home. Enjoy every spoonful! 🍌🥄
