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Banana Pudding Parfaits

Layered banana pudding parfait in a jar with vanilla wafers and whipped cream.
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These banana pudding parfaits are a no-bake, make-ahead dessert that captures the nostalgic comfort of homemade banana pudding in individual servings. Layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet banana slices, and soft vanilla wafers create a simple yet joyful treat perfect for effortless entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 (8 oz) block full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 4-5 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
  • Additional whipped topping for garnish
  • Crushed vanilla wafers or cinnamon for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with the cold milk for 2 full minutes until it begins to thicken. Set aside to set further.
  2. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Gradually beat the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the cream cheese until the mixture is silky.
  4. Gently fold the set vanilla pudding into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
  5. Carefully fold in the entire tub of thawed whipped topping with a spatula until incorporated, keeping the filling light and fluffy.
  6. In parfait glasses or jars, create a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
  7. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers.
  8. Spoon a generous layer of the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas.
  9. Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas, pudding. Typically, two full cycles fit in a standard glass.
  10. Cover the parfaits and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the wafers to soften.
  11. Just before serving, garnish with a swirl of extra whipped topping and optional crushed cookies or cinnamon.

Notes

For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. The parfaits taste best after chilling, which allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to achieve a cake-like texture. They can be assembled 1 day ahead.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/banana-pudding-parfaits/