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This Chick-fil-A style banana pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert. Creamy sweet pudding, fluffy whipped cream, layers of bananas and softened vanilla cookies create a nostalgic treat that always disappears quickly at family potlucks. This pudding tastes like the homemade version my grandma made every summer and it truly gets better the longer it sits in the fridge.
I first made this pudding for a summer cookout and it vanished before I even got to the table. Now I double it every time and there are never leftovers.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk: Lends richness plus subtle caramel notes try to select a can that is not expired or overcooked
- Ice cold water: Helps set the pudding quickly always use filtered or bottled for best results
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Brings structure and vanilla flavor choose a quality brand for best taste
- Heavy cream: When whipped it gives a cloudlike texture look for cream with the highest fat content
- Marshmallow fluff: Adds a unique sweetness and airiness always check the packaging for freshness
- Barely ripe bananas: They hold texture without turning mushy pick ones with just a bit of green left on the stem
- Nilla wafers: Offer classic flavor and transform into a cake like layer as they soak in the pudding buy fresh so they do not crumble too easily
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Pudding:
- In a large bowl whisk sweetened condensed milk and ice cold water together until totally smooth. Sprinkle in vanilla pudding mix and whisk hard about two minutes to avoid clumps. Cover and let chill for at least four hours so it gets very thick.
- Whip the Cream:
- Use a clean bowl to beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Spoon in marshmallow fluff and whip again until the cream reaches stiff peaks and holds its shape.
- Combine Pudding and Cream:
- With a large spatula gently fold the fluffy whipped cream into the thick pudding mixture. Go slowly and use broad strokes around the side and through the center so the mixture stays airy. Mix just until almost no streaks remain.
- Assemble the Layers:
- In a deep glass dish or trifle bowl create the first layer with Nilla wafers arranged snugly. Scatter sliced bananas evenly over the cookies. Spoon about one third of the combined pudding mixture over the bananas spreading gently to the edges. Repeat with two more wafer banana and pudding layers for a total of three layers.
- Finish and Chill:
- Top the final layer with more pudding mixture and smooth the surface. If you like sprinkle crushed wafer crumbs over the top for texture and a pretty finish. Cover carefully and let chill at least four hours but overnight is even better as the cookies soften further.
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My favorite part of this pudding is the way the Nilla wafers melt into the cream making each bite taste like banana shortcake. Every time I make this dessert it reminds me of lazy summer days with my cousins when one big pan of pudding meant everyone gathered round for seconds.
Storage Tips
Keep banana pudding tightly covered in the refrigerator and it stays delicious for up to three days. The bananas will brown a bit with time so if you want a perfect look slice fresh bananas right before serving and only layer cookies and pudding in advance.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use another instant pudding flavor like French vanilla for a slightly different twist. If you cannot find Nilla wafers use another vanilla cookie that holds up to moisture such as butter cookies. Swap marshmallow fluff with whipped topping for a lighter texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cold in a big glass bowl or scoop individual portions into small cups for parties. Top with extra whipped cream or a sprinkle of wafer crumbs. For a fancy finish add toasted coconut or chopped pecans on top.
Cultural Context
Banana pudding is a true southern classic that brings back childhood memories and is a staple at family reunions. This version is inspired by Chick-fil-A but layered puddings have been cherished for generations in home kitchens for their ease and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I prevent bananas from browning?
Bananas naturally brown as they sit. To minimize browning, you can slice and add bananas to each serving right before eating. Some rinse slices in water, but this has minimal effect.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, preparing this dish a day in advance is ideal. The wafers soften and absorb the creamy layers, resulting in a richer texture.
- → What type of pudding mix should I use?
Instant vanilla pudding mix works best, blending smoothly into the creamy base for a light, fluffy consistency.
- → How do I achieve a fluffy texture?
Whip heavy cream with marshmallow fluff to soft peaks before gently folding it into the pudding base. Fold carefully to keep the mixture airy.
- → Can I use a different cookie instead of Nilla Wafers?
Nilla Wafers provide classic flavor and soften beautifully, but you can substitute with other vanilla cookies if preferred.
- → How long should the pudding chill?
Chill at least 4 hours after assembling. Overnight is best for cookies to fully soften and flavors to enhance.