Light & Luscious Banana Pudding Delight
Indulge in this Light & Luscious Banana Pudding Delight, a delightful twist on the traditional banana pudding. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat at home. The creamy vanilla pudding is enhanced by light whipped topping and fresh bananas, layered between crispy vanilla wafers. The best part? It’s reduces the calories without sacrificing flavor! This dessert is sure to impress your friends and family, and you’ll find no leftovers, so consider splitting it into two smaller casseroles. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with a healthier edge!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Reduced-fat vanilla wafers
1 (16 ounce box (may not use whole box, save some for topping))
Fat-free sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (6 ounce box)
Skim milk
3 (cups, cold)
Cool Whip Free
8 (ounces, thawed)
Bananas
3-4 (sliced into 1/4 inch rounds)
Instructions
1
Preheat your kitchen and gather your ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.
2
Select a 9x13 baking dish or two smaller casserole dishes. Start by arranging a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your chosen dish(es). Set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fat-free sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix with 3 cups of cold skim milk. Whisk thoroughly until blended, then let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the pudding to set.
4
Once the pudding has thickened, gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until completely combined, creating a smooth, creamy mixture.
5
Slice the bananas into 1/4-inch rounds. Layer the banana slices evenly over the wafers in the baking dish.
6
Carefully spoon the pudding mixture over the bananas, ensuring even coverage.
7
To finish, add your desired topping: arrange additional vanilla wafers around the edge of the dish, crush some wafers to sprinkle on top, or add extra banana slices and a dollop of Cool Whip. If you use bananas as a garnish, remember to toss them in lemon juice first to prevent browning.
8
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy this light yet luscious dessert!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Light & Luscious Banana Pudding Delight?
It is a healthier twist on traditional banana pudding that reduces calories without sacrificing flavor, featuring layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a creamy pudding mixture.
What type of vanilla wafers should I use?
The recipe calls for one 16-ounce box of reduced-fat vanilla wafers.
What kind of pudding mix is required?
You will need one 6-ounce box of fat-free sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix.
What type of milk is used for the pudding?
The recipe uses 3 cups of cold skim milk.
How much Cool Whip is needed?
You should use 8 ounces of thawed Cool Whip Free.
How many bananas are required for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using 3 to 4 bananas.
How should the bananas be prepared?
The bananas should be sliced into 1/4-inch rounds.
What size baking dish is recommended?
You can use a 9x13 baking dish or split the recipe into two smaller casserole dishes.
How do I start assembling the dessert?
Start by arranging a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your chosen dish.
How long does the pudding mix need to set after whisking?
After whisking the pudding mix with skim milk, let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow it to set.
When do I add the Cool Whip?
Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip once the pudding has thickened after the 5-minute setting period.
How do I layer the bananas?
Layer the 1/4-inch banana slices evenly over the vanilla wafers in the baking dish.
Is this a no-bake dessert?
Yes, this is a no-bake recipe that only requires assembly and chilling.
How long should the pudding chill before serving?
Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
How can I prevent banana garnishes from browning?
If you use banana slices as a top garnish, toss them in lemon juice first to prevent them from browning.
What are some topping suggestions?
You can arrange extra wafers around the edges, sprinkle crushed wafers on top, or add extra banana slices and a dollop of Cool Whip.
Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and family treats.
Does this recipe contain fat-free ingredients?
Yes, it uses fat-free sugar-free pudding mix, skim milk, and Cool Whip Free.
Can I use the entire box of vanilla wafers?
The recipe mentions you may not use the whole 16-ounce box; you should save some for the topping.
Is the pudding mix instant or cook-and-serve?
The recipe requires instant vanilla pudding mix.
How do I combine the Cool Whip and pudding?
You should gently fold the Cool Whip into the pudding until completely combined for a creamy texture.
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, since it requires at least 2 hours of chilling, it is a great make-ahead dessert.
What makes this recipe 'Light'?
It uses reduced-fat wafers, fat-free/sugar-free pudding, skim milk, and Cool Whip Free to reduce calories.
How do I ensure even coverage of the pudding?
Carefully spoon the pudding mixture over the bananas and spread it to ensure the layers are evenly covered.
Is this a traditional Southern recipe?
It is described as a twist on the traditional recipe with a healthier edge.
Should the milk be room temperature or cold?
The milk should be cold for the instant pudding to set properly.
Are there any leftover tips?
The description suggests you likely won't have leftovers, but splitting it into two containers helps if you want to save some for later.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The primary flavors are creamy vanilla and fresh banana.
What tools are needed for the pudding?
A large mixing bowl and a whisk are needed to combine the pudding and milk.
Can I use other pudding flavors?
While the recipe specifies vanilla, banana cream pudding could be a common alternative, though vanilla is the standard for this 'Luscious' version.