Are you craving a taste of comfort? Nothing quite hits the spot like a creamy, dreamy banana pudding, and this recipe, inspired by the classic Nilla Wafer box, is sure to become a family favorite. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dessert or a special occasion treat. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade comfort food – a delicious and satisfying banana pudding that's surprisingly simple to make!
Ingredients:
- 2 (3.9 ounce) packages Nilla wafers
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 6 cups cold milk
- 1 (5.1 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- Optional: Whipped cream, maraschino cherries, extra Nilla wafers for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, gently toss the Nilla wafers with the melted butter until evenly coated. This will create the perfect crunchy base for our pudding.
Step 2: Layer the Pudding
In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and creamy. This usually only takes about 2 minutes. Fold in the thawed Cool Whip. Try not to overmix, as this can cause the pudding to become watery.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Layer half of the buttered Nilla wafers in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange half of the sliced bananas over the wafers. Pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set perfectly. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, maraschino cherries, or extra Nilla wafers, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Banana Pudding:
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe, but not overly mushy, bananas for the best flavor and texture. Slightly bruised bananas add sweetness!
- Chill Time: Don't skip the chilling time! It's essential for the pudding to set properly and the flavors to develop fully.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter pudding, add a little extra sugar to the pudding mix.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the pudding mixture for a delicious twist.
- Spiced Banana Pudding: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mixture for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Peanut Butter Banana Pudding: Swirl in a cup of peanut butter into the pudding before layering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Cholesterol: 10-15mg
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Sugar: 30-40g
- Protein: 4-6g
This delicious Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are quick and simple enough for a weeknight dinner dessert, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy this homemade cooking creation! It's one of the best recipes you'll ever try.