Creamy Banana Pudding Layers (Printer-Friendly)

Rich layers of banana cream and velvety filling over a vanilla wafer crust, topped with fresh banana slices.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 200 g vanilla wafers, finely crushed
02 - 75 g unsalted butter, melted

→ Cream Cheese Layer

03 - 225 g full-fat cream cheese, softened
04 - 90 g instant banana pudding mix
05 - 480 ml cold whole milk

→ Banana Pudding Layer

06 - 90 g instant banana pudding mix
07 - 480 ml cold whole milk

→ Topping

08 - 2 ripe bananas, sliced

→ Optional Garnish

09 - Whipped cream
10 - Extra crushed vanilla wafers

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine the crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter in a mixing bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the base of a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish to create a compact crust.
02 - In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free. Add 90 g instant banana pudding mix and 480 ml cold milk, whisking until a thick, creamy filling is achieved.
03 - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even layer.
04 - Whisk the remaining 90 g instant banana pudding mix with 480 ml cold milk until fully dissolved and thickened.
05 - Carefully pour and spread the banana pudding over the cream cheese layer, maintaining distinct separation for defined layers.
06 - Distribute the sliced bananas evenly across the top of the pudding layer for sweetness and visual appeal.
07 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, allowing the dessert to firm up and flavors to blend harmoniously.
08 - Slice into portions and serve chilled. Optionally, add whipped cream or sprinkle with extra crushed vanilla wafers for added texture.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Use firm, ripe bananas to prevent browning and maintain texture during chilling.
02 - Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
03 - Dessert improves in flavor and texture after chilling overnight, making it ideal for advance preparation.
04 - Layers set best in a glass or ceramic dish to ensure even cooling and neat slices.
05 - Replace instant banana pudding with vanilla pudding and mashed bananas for a homemade adaptation.