Creamy Layered Banana Pudding

This easy banana pudding is extra creamy, full of vanilla flavor, and made for sharing. Layers of fluffy pudding, sliced bananas, and vanilla wafers soften together in the refrigerator to create a classic make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 3 cups cold milk
• 2 (3.4-ounce) packages instant vanilla or banana pudding mix
• 1 (11-ounce) package vanilla wafers
• 4 bananas, peeled and sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the cream cheese mixture. Beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until it is light and free of lumps. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, then mix again until smooth and evenly combined.
2. Add the whipped topping. Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the pudding.
3. Mix the pudding. In a separate large bowl, combine the cold milk and instant pudding mix. Beat with an electric mixer for approximately 3 minutes, or until the mixture begins to become thick and creamy.
4. Combine the fillings. Fold the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding until no streaks remain.
5. Build the layers. Choose a 9-by-13-inch dish, trifle bowl, large serving bowl, or individual jars. Cover the bottom with vanilla wafers, spoon pudding over the cookies, and add a layer of banana slices. Add another layer of wafers and repeat the sequence until the dish is filled. Finish with a smooth layer of pudding.
6. Chill. Cover the dessert and refrigerate it for 3 to 4 hours, giving the pudding time to set and the cookies time to soften.
7. Finish and serve. Just before serving, crush a few vanilla wafers over the top. Serve well chilled.

Mood Messy Tips

• Use bananas that are yellow and ripe but still firm so they hold their shape in the layers.
• Vanilla pudding creates a classic flavor, while banana pudding gives the dessert an extra banana boost.
• For the best texture, assemble the pudding several hours before serving rather than serving it immediately.
• Add the final cookie crumbs shortly before serving so they stay crisp.

Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 to 3 days.