A Modern Twist on a Southern Classic
This isn’t your traditional Southern banana pudding — it’s richer, creamier, and irresistibly indulgent. Made with layers of silky vanilla pudding, fluffy cream cheese, fresh bananas, and buttery cookies, this no-bake dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you crave a nostalgic treat with a modern upgrade. One spoonful and you’ll understand why this version is legendary!
Ingredients
2 cups cold milk
1 (5.1 oz / 145 g) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (8 oz / 225 g) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14 oz / 400 g) can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 (12 oz / 340 g) box vanilla wafers or butter cookies
Preparation Method
Prepare the Pudding
In a bowl, whisk the cold milk with the instant vanilla pudding mix until thickened. Set aside for 5 minutes.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined and silky.
Whip the Cream
In another bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Combine the Filling
Gently fold the prepared pudding into the cream cheese mixture. Then carefully fold in the whipped cream until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Dessert
In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a generous layer of the pudding mixture.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften.
Serving Tip
Garnish with crushed wafers, banana slices, or a drizzle of caramel just before serving. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor