Ah, Mama’s Banana Pudding!

Mama’s Banana Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a treasure trove of sweet memories. Each layer of this pudding speaks of warmth, comfort, and the simple joys of family gatherings. It’s the kind of dessert that has a story to tell, a story of Sunday afternoons in Mama’s kitchen, the laughter of loved ones, and the sweet aroma of ripe bananas and vanilla.

 

I remember watching Mama as she expertly assembled this pudding. It was like watching an artist at work. The way she layered the cookies, the precision in slicing the bananas, and the gentle folding of the whipped topping. This recipe is a celebration of those moments, a homage to the love and care that went into every spoonful.

 

This recipe Mama’s Banana Pudding isn’t just a dessert; it’s a warm, creamy hug from the kitchen. With the perfect balance of sweet, ripe bananas, velvety pudding, and crisp cookies, it’s a treat that brings comfort and joy with every spoonful. Let’s recreate this family favorite that promises to be a hit, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.

Mama’s Special Recipe: How to Whip up this Delight

Servings: 10

Ingredients:

• 2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies (or Vanilla cookies)
• 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 box (5 oz) instant French vanilla pudding
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

 

Instructions:

Step 1: The Cookie and Banana Foundation

• Layer One: Line the bottom of a 13×9 inch dish with one bag of Chessmen cookies. These cookies will add a delightful texture and buttery flavor.
• Banana Layer: Place the sliced bananas over the cookies. This layer of fresh bananas will infuse a natural sweetness and a soft texture contrasting the cookies.

 

Step 2: The Pudding Mix (Bowl 1)

• Pudding Perfection: In a bowl, whisk together the milk and French vanilla pudding mix using a handheld electric mixer. The goal is a smooth, lump-free pudding.

 

Step 3: The Creamy Blend (Bowl 2)

• Cream Cheese Concoction: In another bowl, thoroughly mix the cream cheese and condensed milk until smooth. This combination brings richness and creamy texture to the dessert.
• Whipped Topping Integration: Gently fold in the whipped topping into this cream cheese mix. This step introduces a light and airy texture.

 

Step 4: The Grand Merge

• Combine for Creaminess: Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture, stirring until they are well blended. This creates a luscious, creamy layer that’s the heart of the dessert.

 

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

• Pour and Layer: Pour this creamy mixture over the cookies and bananas. Smooth it out to cover them completely.
• Final Cookie Layer: Cover the mixture with the remaining Chessmen cookies.
• Refrigeration Time: Refrigerate the pudding until it’s set and ready to serve. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

 

Serving Suggestions:

• Chilled Perfection: Serve this pudding chilled. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavors – the creaminess of the pudding, the sweetness of the bananas, and the crispness of the cookies.
• Garnish Ideas: Garnish with additional banana slices or a sprinkle of cookie crumbs for an extra touch of elegance.

 

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding:

• Banana Tip: Choose ripe but firm bananas for the best texture.
• Variations: Experiment with different cookies like vanilla wafers for a variation in texture.
• Advance Prep: This dessert is perfect for making ahead, as it allows the flavors to intensify.