Looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? This Paula Deen Banana Pudding Recipe, famously known as “Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding,” is a decadent no-bake treat that combines creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and buttery Chessmen cookies. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple family gathering, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds! Let’s dive into how to make this Southern classic.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: No oven needed—just mix, layer, and chill!
- Rich and Creamy: Cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk make the pudding extra decadent.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at any gathering, from Easter to BBQs.
- Quick Prep: Ready to assemble in under 20 minutes, then chill for a few hours.
Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dessert:
- 2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies (7.25 oz each)
- 6 to 8 medium ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1 (5 oz) box instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Substitutions and Variations
- Cookies: Can’t find Chessmen cookies? Substitute with vanilla wafers for a more traditional touch.
- Pudding Flavor: Swap French vanilla pudding for banana cream or classic vanilla pudding mix.
- Whipped Topping: Use homemade whipped cream if you prefer a fresher taste, but note it may not be as stable.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding
Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that’s sure to impress:
- Prepare the Base Layer
Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish with one bag of Chessmen cookies. It’s okay if they overlap slightly. Layer the sliced bananas evenly over the cookies, using about 2 layers of banana slices to cover them completely. - Make the Pudding Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding mix using a handheld electric mixer for about 2 minutes, until thickened. Set aside. - Create the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk with a handheld mixer until smooth and creamy, with no clumps. - Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Then, add this to the pudding mixture and stir until fully blended. - Assemble the Pudding
Pour the pudding mixture over the bananas and cookies in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining bag of Chessmen cookies. - Chill and Serve
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften slightly.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding
- Use Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots for the best sweetness and texture.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the pudding.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step—it helps the pudding set and enhances the flavor.
- Prevent Browning: To keep bananas from turning brown, you can lightly toss the slices in lemon juice before layering, though they’re still safe to eat if they darken slightly.
How to Store Banana Pudding
Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the dish with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days, but the bananas may darken and the cookies will soften over time. Freezing is not recommended, as the bananas and cookies can become mushy upon thawing.
Serving Suggestions
This banana pudding looks stunning in a glass trifle bowl for a more elegant presentation. Serve it chilled as is, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat. It’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings, like Easter or a BBQ, but it’s a hit year-round!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/16 of the recipe)
- Calories: 277 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
- Sodium: 182 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 24 g
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Unlike traditional banana pudding, Paula Deen’s version skips the homemade custard and uses instant pudding for a quick, foolproof dessert. The addition of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk gives it a rich, mousse-like texture that sets it apart from the classic recipe. The Chessmen cookies add a buttery crunch that elevates the whole dish.
Try This Banana Pudding Today!
This Paula Deen Banana Pudding Recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. Have you made this recipe? Let us know in the comments below how it turned out, or share your own twists!
