Tip: This creamy, indulgent banana pudding is about 300-350 calories per serving, depending on portion size. It's a classic dessert perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any special occasion. Serve chilled for a cool, refreshing treat!
Ingredients:
2 boxes vanilla wafers
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 (5 oz.) box French vanilla pudding
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping (thawed), or equal amount of sweetened whipped cream
Instructions:
Step 1:
Line the bottom of a 13x9-inch dish with 1 bag of vanilla wafers.
Layer the sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
Step 2:
In a bowl, combine the milk and French vanilla pudding mix. Use a handheld electric mixer to blend well until smooth and thickened.
Step 3:
In another bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4:
Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Step 5:
Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until everything is well blended and smooth.
Step 6:
Pour the combined mixture over the cookies and bananas in the 13x9-inch dish.
Top with the remaining vanilla wafers to complete the layers.
Step 7:
Cover the dish and refrigerate until ready to serve, preferably for at least 2 hours or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the pudding set.
Notes:
Saving Energy: No baking required! This recipe is super energy-efficient, as it only involves mixing and chilling.
Health Benefits: While banana pudding is a sweet indulgence, it provides some potassium from the bananas. However, it is calorie-dense due to the cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping. You can lighten it up by using low-fat versions of the cream cheese and whipped topping. Enjoy in moderation!