Indulge in the creamy decadence of this Doctored Up Vanilla Pudding Casserole, a no-bake dessert that layers luscious vanilla pudding, velvety cream cheese, and airy whipped topping with slices of cinnamon-kissed bananas and crisp vanilla wafer cookies. With just 20 minutes of prep time, this easy-to-assemble treat becomes a show-stopping centerpiece after a quick chill in the fridge. Optional chopped nuts and crushed cookies provide a delightful crunch to complement the smooth, dreamy layers. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion, this pudding casserole is an irresistible fusion of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. For a crowd-pleasing dish thatβs as simple as it is delightful, donβt miss out on this rich and refreshing dessert!
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding thickens (about 2 minutes). Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat until fully combined.
Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
Peel and slice the bananas into thin rounds. Lightly toss them with ground cinnamon to prevent browning and enhance flavor. Set aside.
In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, create a bottom layer with vanilla wafer cookies, covering the entire base of the dish.
Spread half of the vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the cookie layer.
Add a layer of banana slices on top of the pudding layer.
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the banana layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Repeat the layers: cookies, pudding, bananas, and then cream cheese mixture.
Top the casserole with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly across the surface.
Sprinkle chopped nuts (if using) and a few crushed vanilla wafers over the top for optional garnish.
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Calories |
5366 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 343.1 g | 440% | |
| Saturated Fat | 191.2 g | 956% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 806 mg | 269% | |
| Sodium | 2455 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 509.1 g | 185% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 24.9 g | 89% | |
| Total Sugars | 294.6 g | ||
| Protein | 81.9 g | 164% | |
| Vitamin D | 19.2 mcg | 96% | |
| Calcium | 1787 mg | 137% | |
| Iron | 4.0 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 3838 mg | 82% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.