Description
These Delicious No-Bake Banana Pudding Cups are a creamy, delightful treat combining layers of vanilla pudding, cream cheese mixture, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfectly chilled, they are an easy-to-make dessert that requires no baking and is ideal for warm days or quick gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping, thawed (use half in mixture, half for topping)
Fruits & Layers
- 4โ5 ripe bananas
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
Garnish (Optional)
- Extra whipped cream or topping
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Banana slices
- Caramel drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the vanilla pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold whole milk. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Optionally add vanilla extract to enhance flavor. Chill the pudding in the refrigerator for at least 5 minutes.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and lump-free. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix well. Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Slice the bananas: Peel and cut the bananas into ยผ-inch thick rounds. To prevent browning, optionally toss the slices lightly with lemon juice.
- Assemble the pudding cups: In serving cups or jars, layer vanilla wafers at the bottom, followed by a layer of banana slices. Add a layer of the cream cheese mixture, then a layer of the chilled pudding. Repeat these layers until cups are filled, finishing with whipped topping on top.
- Chill and garnish: Refrigerate the assembled cups for 2-3 hours to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set. Before serving, optionally garnish with extra whipped cream, crushed vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, and a drizzle of caramel.
Notes
- For best texture, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
- Lemon juice on banana slices helps maintain their color and freshness.
- Use chilled milk for the pudding to speed up setting time.
- These cups can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
- To make this dessert lighter, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese.
