These individual banana pudding cups offer a beautiful, portable twist on the classic Southern dessert. By layering crisp vanilla wafers, fresh sliced bananas, and a rich, velvety pudding mixture enhanced with cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk, you create an elegant treat perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple weeknight surprise.
Ingredients
Cookies & Fruit: 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers, 6 medium bananas (sliced)
Pudding Base: 2 cups cold milk, 1 box (5 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
Cream Mixture: 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened), 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Topping: 1 container (12 oz) whipped topping (thawed)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Place it in the refrigerator to set for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together using a hand mixer on medium speed until completely smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps.
Step 3: Fold and Combine
Gently fold half of the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Once incorporated, fold this mixture directly into the chilled vanilla pudding base until completely uniform.
Step 4: Assemble the Cups
Set out individual clear plastic or glass serving cups. Begin assembly by placing a layer of crushed or whole vanilla wafers at the bottom of each cup. Add a layer of fresh banana slices, followed by a generous spoonful of the creamy pudding mixture.
Step 5: Repeat and Garnish
Repeat the layering process one more time, alternating between wafers, bananas, and pudding. Top each cup with a final layer of the remaining whipped topping. As shown in image_14.png, garnish the center of each cup with a single whole vanilla wafer surrounded by a sprinkle of finely crushed wafer crumbs.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Place the assembled pudding cups into the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the vanilla wafers to soften slightly into a cake-like texture and lets the flavors meld perfectly. Serve cold.