This Banana Cream Dessert is a versatile and delightful treat that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a sweet way to end a meal, this dessert delivers a combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements that’s hard to resist. With its easy preparation and the ability to feed a crowd, it’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Banana Cream Dessert, you will need the following ingredients:
2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies OR 2 bags Vanilla Wafers
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups whole milk
1 (5 oz.) box instant French Vanilla pudding
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, or an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
Begin by preparing your serving dish. You’ll need a 13×9 inch dish for this recipe. This size will allow all the layers to fit perfectly and create a beautiful presentation. Line the bottom of the dish with 1 bag of the cookies of your choice—either Pepperidge Farm Chessmen or Vanilla Wafers. These cookies will form the first layer and provide a crispy base that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling. Once the bottom is covered, arrange a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cookies. Aim for an even layer so that each bite will have a bit of banana goodness.
2. Mix the Pudding
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 2 cups of whole milk with the 5 oz. box of instant French Vanilla pudding. Using a handheld electric mixer, blend the mixture on medium speed until it is well combined and starts to thicken. This step is crucial because it forms the base of your creamy pudding layer. Make sure there are no lumps and the pudding has a smooth consistency. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the next part of the filling.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, combine the 8 oz. package of cream cheese with the 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk. Using the electric mixer again, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The sweetened condensed milk will add a luscious sweetness that complements the tanginess of the cream cheese. This combination creates a rich and velvety texture that blends beautifully with the pudding.
4. Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the light and airy texture of the whipped topping. If you’re using sweetened whipped cream instead of the frozen whipped topping, ensure it is well whipped to achieve the desired lightness. This step combines the creaminess of the cream cheese with the fluffy texture of the whipped topping, creating a decadent and smooth filling.
5. Combine the Mixtures
Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture. Stir these two mixtures together until they are fully combined and smooth. This creates the final creamy layer that will be poured over the cookies and bananas. Make sure the mixture is uniform to ensure every bite of the dessert is equally delicious.
6. Assemble the Dessert
Pour the creamy mixture over the layer of bananas and cookies in the dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure it covers the entire surface. Once the filling is evenly distributed, top it with the remaining cookies. The cookies on top will provide a delightful crunch and make the dessert visually appealing.
7. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least a few hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the layers to set properly. The result is a dessert that is cool, creamy, and bursting with flavor. When you’re ready to serve, cut into squares and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions
This Banana Cream Dessert is highly adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences:
Cookies: If you prefer a different type of cookie, feel free to substitute the Pepperidge Farm Chessmen or Vanilla Wafers with another favorite cookie. Graham crackers or even crushed Oreos can add a unique twist.
Bananas: For a different fruit flavor, try using strawberries or peaches. Just be sure to adjust the fruit to match the texture and sweetness level you prefer.
Milk: If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk of your choice. Just make sure it is unsweetened to avoid altering the flavor balance.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also try vegan cream cheese if you need a dairy-free option.
Whipped Topping: If you prefer a homemade touch, whip your own heavy cream with a bit of sugar instead of using store-bought whipped topping. This adds a fresh and personalized element to the dessert.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
This Banana Cream Dessert stands out because of its simplicity and indulgence. The combination of crispy cookies, creamy pudding, and fresh bananas creates a dessert that is both satisfying and light. It’s a hit at gatherings because it’s easy to make in advance and can be prepared in large quantities. Plus, the flavors are universally loved, making it a safe bet for parties and potlucks.
Making this dessert is also a pleasure because it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find. It’s a recipe that’s not only enjoyable to prepare but also to share, as it brings people together and creates lasting memories.
In summary, this Banana Cream Dessert is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of good food and good company. Its creamy, sweet layers and satisfying crunch make it a beloved favorite, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just a casual family dinner, it’s a dish that’s sure to please and bring smiles all around.
