Banana pudding is one of those timeless desserts that brings comfort and smiles to any table. If you’re wondering how to make banana pudding with condensed milk, you’re in for a treat! This ingredient adds a rich, creamy sweetness that elevates the classic Southern favorite to a whole new level. Let’s dive into an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that you can whip up in no time.
Why Use Condensed Milk in Banana Pudding?
Sweetened condensed milk is thick, sweet, and creamy, making it perfect for banana pudding. It enhances the pudding’s texture and flavor without needing to cook a custard from scratch. Plus, it blends beautifully with vanilla pudding mix and fresh bananas, creating a luscious dessert that’s both smooth and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups cold whole milk
– 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
– 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 boxes vanilla wafer cookies (about 11 ounces each)
– 12 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Banana Pudding with Condensed Milk
1. Prepare the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold whole milk until smooth. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor.
2. Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the pudding mixture. This lightens the pudding, making it creamy and fluffy without losing richness.
3. Layer Your Ingredients
In a 9×13 inch dish or a trifle bowl, start by layering vanilla wafers at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers. Then pour half of the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding.
4. Top It Off
Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top layer. For an extra touch, you can crush some vanilla wafers and sprinkle them on top for added texture and presentation.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften perfectly, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone loves.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding with Condensed Milk
– Use ripe but firm bananas: Overripe bananas can become mushy and overly sweet.
– Don’t skip the chilling: The pudding tastes best after it’s had time to set and the flavors blend.
– Customize your layers: Feel free to add more or fewer layers depending on your dish size or preference.
– Make it ahead: This dessert actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Variations to Try
– Old-Fashioned Custard Style: For a richer pudding, cook a custard with egg yolks, cornstarch, evaporated milk, and condensed milk on the stove. This method takes a bit longer but yields a velvety, homemade custard base.
– No-Cook Version: Mix condensed milk with heavy cream and a splash of lemon juice to thicken, then fold in whipped cream and layer with bananas and wafers. This version is quick and perfect for hot days when you want to avoid the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This banana pudding recipe with condensed milk is simple, quick, and requires no baking. It combines the nostalgic flavors of vanilla wafers and fresh bananas with a creamy, sweet pudding that’s perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to potlucks. The condensed milk adds a luscious depth that makes each bite irresistible.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon understand why banana pudding with condensed milk is a beloved Southern dessert classic!
Banana pudding with condensed milk is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s easy to make and sure to delight everyone at your table. Enjoy!