Summer is finally here and the sun is shining bright. It is far too hot to turn on your oven today. You need a dessert that is cool and refreshing for your family.
This delicious no-bake banana pudding is exactly what you are looking for. It is creamy, rich, and incredibly easy to pull together. Your friends and neighbors will definitely ask for the recipe.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This isn’t your average pudding from a box. We use velvety cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk for extra richness. It tastes like a fancy bakery treat without the hard work.
Using butter cookies instead of wafers adds a special touch. It is the perfect crowd-pleaser for potlucks or family reunions. Everyone loves the golden, buttery crunch in every single bite.
Simple Method
Making this dessert is as simple as layering and mixing. You do not need any special skills to get this right. It is a foolproof recipe for any beginner cook.
The hardest part is simply waiting for it to chill. You can even let the kids help with the cookie layers. It is a fun family activity that ends with a treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients create a decadent dessert that feels truly special.
- 2 bags (7.25 oz each) butter chessmen cookies
- 8 large bananas, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 package (5 oz) instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 container (12 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Step-by-Step
- Line the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with one bag of the butter cookies.
- Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cookie layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding mix until thickened.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the banana layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Place the remaining bag of butter cookies on top of the pudding in an even layer.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dessert chilled and fresh straight from the refrigerator. It looks beautiful when served in clear glass bowls. You can see all the lovely layers of fruit and cream.
Pair a big scoop with a glass of iced tea. It is the ultimate summer treat for a backyard BBQ. Your guests will keep coming back for seconds.
Storage & Reheating
Keep your leftovers in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. The cookies will get softer and better over time.
I do not recommend freezing this particular pudding dish. The bananas may turn brown and the texture will change. This is a make-ahead dream for your next big party.
Tips for Best Results
- Always use softened cream cheese to avoid any lumps.
- Choose bright yellow bananas with just a few brown spots.
- Don’t skip the four-hour chill time in the fridge.
- Whisk the pudding and milk vigorously until it starts to set.
- For summer parties, keep the dish on ice while serving.
- Add a few fresh berries on top for a pop of color.
- Wipe your knife between slices for clean, pretty servings.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a twist.
- Use gluten-free butter cookies to accommodate dietary needs.
- Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the bananas for extra sweetness.
- In the spring, add a layer of sliced strawberries.
- Top with crushed nuts for a bit of extra crunch.
Common Questions
Can I make this the night before?
Yes, this recipe is actually better when made a day early. It gives the cookies time to soften into a cake-like texture. It makes your party day much less stressful.
What if I can’t find chessmen cookies?
You can use any shortbread or butter cookie you like. Vanilla wafers are the classic choice if you prefer tradition. Just ensure they are crisp before you start layering.
How do I stop bananas from browning?
The pudding mixture actually helps seal the bananas from the air. This keeps them fresh and bright for longer. Just make sure they are fully covered by the cream.
I hope this creamy dessert brings a smile to your face this summer. It is a simple way to show your family some love. Enjoy every sweet, cool bite!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 2 bags (7.25 oz each) butter chessmen cookies
- 8 large bananas , sliced into rounds
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 package (5 oz) instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 container (12 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Line the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with one bag of the butter cookies.
- Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cookie layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding mix until thickened.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and free of lumps.
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the banana layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Place the remaining bag of butter cookies on top of the pudding in an even layer.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cookies to soften and flavors to meld.
