Ready in: 4 hours, 30 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: No-Bake · Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert combines layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crispy wafers, chilled to perfection for a delightful treat that's ideal for holiday gatherings.
As the weather cools here in New York City, I find myself craving the comforting familiarity of classic desserts. There's something magical about the holiday season that stirs up nostalgia, and this Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert is like a warm hug on a chilly day. The layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and those iconic, crispy vanilla wafers come together in a way that makes my heart sing-perfect for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to assemble, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla Wafers create a delightful contrast.
- Can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities.
- Appeals to both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- The delicious combination of flavors will evoke nostalgic feelings of home.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to create this delightful treat:
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups of cold milk (preferably whole milk)
- 1 (3.4 oz) package of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box of Nilla Wafers
- ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
How to Make Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert (Step-by-Step)
Creating this delicious dessert is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to whip up a delightful treat.
Step 1: Mix the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix. I love watching the mixture thicken and transform as I whisk-keep going until it's nice and smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until completely blended. Then, fold in the whipped topping gently. The creamy texture will delight you, and the sweet smell is simply irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Layers
Now, it's time to combine! Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until everything is harmoniously combined. When you pour this luscious filling over the Nilla Wafers, it will look like something out of a dream.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
Layer the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish with half the Nilla Wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas. Spoon half of the cream mixture over the bananas, and repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Step 5: Chill
Cover your dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This ensures every layer gets to know each other - and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
When you're ready to serve, you can garnish each slice with a few extra banana slices and perhaps a sprinkle of crushed Nilla Wafers on top for added crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using instant pudding mix incorrectly: Make sure to mix it with cold milk and whisk until fully thickened for the right texture.
- Skipping the cream cheese softening step: This can lead to lumps in your cream mixture, so let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start.
- Not letting it chill long enough: This dessert needs time to set properly, or the layers may not hold up when you cut into it.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Consider using organic bananas for better flavor and texture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon between the layers.
- You can make this dessert a day ahead to save time on the day of your holiday gathering.
Variations
- Swap Nilla Wafers for graham crackers for a different crunch.
- Substitute whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a richer taste.
- Try adding a layer of chocolate pudding for a chocolate banana cream dessert.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for maximum freshness.
- Garnish each slice with extra banana slices and crushed Nilla Wafers for added texture.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a decorative finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- This dessert can be made a day ahead to save time on the day of your holiday gathering.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The wafers may soften, but the flavors only improve over time.
- For best presentation, consider adding the Nilla Wafers just before serving.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing this recipe reminded me of the importance of patience in the kitchen-letting the dessert chill overnight truly elevates the flavors and textures. It's a delightful reminder that some of the best things take a little time!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 servings · Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~310 calories · 4g protein · 46g carbs · 13g fat
Recipe by:
Delightful Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and thickened.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully blended. Fold in the whipped topping gently.
- Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until harmoniously combined.
- Layer half the Nilla Wafers in a 9x13-inch dish, add bananas, then half of the cream mixture. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve garnished with extra banana slices and crushed Nilla Wafers if desired.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this dessert is best when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to cover it well and refrigerate it.
What can I substitute for the Nilla Wafers?
If you can't find Nilla Wafers, you can substitute them with any vanilla-flavored cookies or even shortbread cookies. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might slightly change.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the wafers may soften, the flavors will continue to improve.
