Description
This dreamy Banana Pudding Lush is a no-bake Southern dessert layered with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, whipped topping, and buttery vanilla wafers. It’s comfort food at its best—easy to make, nostalgic, and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 box vanilla wafers, crushed (about 2½ cups)
1/2 cup melted butter
For the Layers:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), divided
2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant banana pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
For the Topping:
2 ripe bananas, sliced (for garnish)
Crushed vanilla wafers (for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish to form the crust. Chill while preparing the filling.
In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
In another bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let sit for 5 minutes to fully set, then pour over the cream cheese layer and smooth evenly.
Top with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it gently to cover the pudding layer.
Garnish with sliced bananas and a generous sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best texture and flavor. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
To prevent browning, toss banana slices lightly in lemon juice before layering.
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding.
Best enjoyed within 2–3 days for optimal texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Southern American