Decadent Vanilla Banana Pudding Layered Delight
Indulge in this delightful Decadent Vanilla Banana Pudding Layered Delight, where layers of creamy vanilla pudding meet the sweetness of sliced bananas and the crunch of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday parties. The combination of rich cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and fluffy whipped topping creates a velvety filling that complements the fresh bananas beautifully. With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, this layered dessert will undoubtedly become a favorite amongst family and friends. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies
2 bags (7 1/4 ounce each) (Unopened and ready to layer)
Bananas
6-8 (Sliced)
Milk
2 cups (Cold)
French vanilla instant pudding mix
1 box (5 ounce) (Dry)
Cream cheese
1 package (8 ounce) (Softened)
Sweetened condensed milk
1 can (14 ounce) (Unopened)
Frozen whipped topping
1 container (12 ounce) (Thawed)
Instructions
1
Start by lining the bottom of a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with one bag of the Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies in a single layer.
2
Next, generously layer the sliced bananas over the cookies, spreading them evenly to ensure every bite has a touch of banana.
3
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and the French vanilla instant pudding mix using a hand-held electric mixer until fully blended and smooth.
4
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is silky and lump-free.
5
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, combining until it's light and fluffy.
6
Carefully incorporate the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture, stirring gently until everything is well blended and smooth.
7
Pour this luscious mixture over the banana and cookie layers in the baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the fruits and cookies completely.
8
Crush the remaining bag of Chessmen Cookies and sprinkle the crumbs over the top as a crunchy finishing touch.
9
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if time allows, to let the flavors meld together and the dessert set.
10
Serve chilled and enjoy this heavenly layered dessert!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Vanilla Banana Pudding Layered Delight?
It is a rich, no-bake layered dessert featuring Chessmen cookies, sliced bananas, and a creamy mixture of vanilla pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping.
What specific cookies are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies, which provide a unique buttery crunch.
How many bananas do I need to prepare this dish?
You will need between 6 to 8 bananas, which should be sliced before layering.
Can I use cook-and-serve pudding instead of instant pudding?
The recipe specifies French vanilla instant pudding mix for the correct texture and quick setting properties.
What type of milk is required for the pudding mix?
You should use 2 cups of cold milk to whisk together with the instant pudding mix.
Does the cream cheese need to be at room temperature?
Yes, the cream cheese should be softened to ensure it beats smoothly with the sweetened condensed milk without leaving lumps.
What is the role of sweetened condensed milk in this recipe?
It is beaten with the cream cheese to add sweetness and a silky, dense consistency to the creamy filling.
Should the frozen whipped topping be used while frozen?
No, the whipped topping must be thawed before gently folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
What size baking dish is recommended for layering?
A 13 by 9-inch baking dish is the ideal size for assembly.
How do I start the layering process?
Start by lining the bottom of your baking dish with one full bag of Chessmen cookies in a single layer.
Where do the bananas go in the layers?
The sliced bananas should be layered generously and evenly directly over the first layer of cookies.
How do I combine the pudding and the cream cheese mixtures?
After folding the whipped topping into the cream cheese, you carefully incorporate the prepared pudding mixture until the entire filling is well blended.
What is the final topping for the pudding?
The remaining bag of Chessmen cookies should be crushed and sprinkled over the top as a finishing touch.
How long does the dessert need to chill before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours, though leaving it overnight is recommended for the best flavor and set.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is an entirely no-bake dessert, making it perfect for hot weather or busy kitchen days.
How many bags of cookies are used in total?
The recipe uses 2 bags of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies, each weighing 7.25 ounces.
Can I use an electric mixer for this recipe?
Yes, a hand-held electric mixer is recommended for whisking the pudding and beating the cream cheese mixture.
Should the pudding be thick before adding it to the cream cheese?
The pudding should be whisked until smooth, but it will continue to set as it is mixed with the other ingredients and chilled.
What flavor of pudding mix is used?
This recipe uses French vanilla instant pudding mix for a richer vanilla flavor.
How do I ensure the bananas are in every bite?
By spreading the 6 to 8 sliced bananas in an even layer across the cookies, you ensure a touch of banana in every portion.
Can I make this dessert the same day I serve it?
Yes, as long as you have at least 4 hours for it to set in the refrigerator.
What is the texture of the finished dessert?
It features a velvety, fluffy filling with layers of soft fruit and a combination of soft and crunchy cookie elements.
Is there any preparation needed for the cookies?
The first bag is used whole for the base, while the second bag is crushed for the topping.
How many ounces of cream cheese are required?
One 8-ounce package of cream cheese is used.
Does the dessert need to be covered in the fridge?
Yes, cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh while it sets.
Can I use regular vanilla pudding instead of French vanilla?
While French vanilla is recommended for its richness, regular vanilla instant pudding can be used as a substitute.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, its large size and impressive layered presentation make it perfect for parties and holiday gatherings.
How many ounces of whipped topping are needed?
The recipe calls for one 12-ounce container of frozen whipped topping, thawed.
What should I do if the cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and beat it thoroughly with the condensed milk until silky.
How should this dessert be served?
It should be served chilled directly from the refrigerator.