Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding

How to make Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding

Ingredients:

1 12-oz container frozen whipped topping, thawed

1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk

1 8-oz package cream cheese, softened

2 cups milk

1 5.1-oz box instant French vanilla pudding mix

6 to 8 bananas, sliced

2 7.25-oz bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies

Instructions:

Line the bottom of a 3-quart 13×9 baking dish with a single layer of cookies.

Combine cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk in a large mixing bowl then beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Mix in regular milk until smooth.

Add pudding mix then continue mixing until well combined.

Add whipped topping to the mixture then fold together until incorporated.

Spoon a thin layer of pudding mixture over cookies (just enough to cover).

Arrange banana slices over pudding. Some overlapping is OK – they don’t have to lay flat.

Pour remaining pudding mixture over bananas then spread evenly.

Cover pudding mixture with remaining cookies. Cover and refrigerate 6 hours (or overnight) before serving.

Notes:

If you can’t find a large box of instant French vanilla pudding, use regular vanilla then add a teaspoon of vanilla extract when mixing to help get that stronger “French vanilla” flavor.

I haven’t been able to find the 12-oz containers of cool whip in a coon’s age so I just buy two of the 8-oz containers and use one and a half (I find this easier than guessing with the 16-oz container plus I use the 8-oz containers to pack my leftovers for lunch).

You won’t use quite all of the cookies. Since some of them break in the package, put all the broken ones in the bottom of the dish and save the good ones for the top.

The dessert will need to rest at least 6 hours before serving to ensure the cookies have time to soften.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 12 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute fresh whipped cream for the frozen whipped topping. Use an equal amount of freshly whipped cream and fold it into the mixture as directed.

Can I use reduced-fat or fat-free ingredients to make the recipe healthier?

Yes, you can opt for reduced-fat or fat-free versions of the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and milk.

However, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and taste of the final pudding.

How long does the banana pudding need to chill before serving?

The recipe recommends refrigerating the pudding for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

This allows the flavors to meld together and for the cookies to soften slightly.

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen?

Yes, you can use other cookies like vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies as a substitute for Pepperidge Farm Chessmen.

Choose a cookie that you enjoy and that will hold up well in the pudding.

Can I add additional toppings or garnishes to the banana pudding?

Absolutely! You can get creative with the toppings and garnishes. Some popular options include whipped cream, crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Customize it to your taste preferences.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of instant pudding mix to create variations of the banana pudding. Vanilla, banana cream, or caramel pudding mixes can be used to add different flavors.

Can I make the banana pudding in individual servings instead of a baking dish?

Yes, you can assemble the banana pudding in individual serving dishes or mason jars for a personalized presentation.

Layer the ingredients in each dish following the same order as the recipe.

Can I substitute the Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies with another type of cookie?

Yes, if you can’t find Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies, you can use other cookies like vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or shortbread cookies.

Choose a cookie that complements the flavors of the pudding.

Can I add other fruits or toppings to the banana pudding?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or pineapple chunks between the layers of the pudding.

Additionally, you can sprinkle crushed cookies or toasted coconut on top for added texture and flavor.