Decadent Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert

Ready in: 4 hours 30 minutes · Serves: 8 · Technique: No-Bake · Storage: 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

Quick Answer

This Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert combines layers of creamy pudding, bananas, and crunchy wafers for a nostalgic treat that's perfect for holiday gatherings.

As the bustling streets of New York City start to radiate that unmistakable energy of the holiday season, I find myself craving something cozy and comforting-something that channels the warmth of Thanksgiving gatherings and festive Christmas dinners. During this period, I love to pull out my baking tools and whip up delightful desserts that are sure to please everyone at the table. Enter my version of Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert, a nostalgic treat that marries creamy richness with a crunch, bringing smiles to my family and friends with every bite.

A Cozy Holiday Treat

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients that everyone loves.
• A delightful combination of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Nilla Wafers.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dessert night.
• Can be made a day in advance, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
• This nostalgic treat brings back warm memories and creates new ones!

Ingredients

To create this indulgent dessert, you'll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 package of Nilla Wafers
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups milk (I prefer whole milk for a richer flavor)
• 1 tub of whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: crushed Nilla Wafers and banana slices for garnish

How to Make Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert (Step-by-Step)

This dessert is simple and requires just a few steps to bring it to life.

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until the mixture is thick and glossy-this is usually around 2-5 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it has a creamy smooth texture and just starts to slightly mound on the whisk.

Step 2: Combine with Whipped Topping

Gently fold in the tub of whipped topping and the vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until completely blended. The light, airy texture is what makes this dessert so lovely!

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by laying down a base layer of Nilla Wafers. Then, add a layer of the pudding mixture, followed by an even layer of sliced bananas. Repeat the layers until you've used all the components, finishing with a layer of the pudding on top.

Step 4: Chill

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though I often let it sit overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the Nilla Wafers will soften just the right amount.

Step 5: Serve

Once chilled, serve this delightful dessert straight from the fridge. For that extra touch, you can garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers and additional banana slices right before presenting it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Overripe Bananas: While you want your bananas to be ripe, too many brown spots might compromise the texture and taste.
• Skipping the Chilling Time: Patience is key! This dessert needs adequate time in the fridge for the flavors to develop-don't rush it.
• Not Layering Evenly: Make sure each layer is evenly distributed for a balanced taste in every scoop.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Choose Fresh Bananas: Look for bananas that are just ripe without bruises for the best flavor and texture.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a splash of almond extract for a nutty twist or swapping vanilla pudding for banana-flavored pudding for an extra punch.
• Make it Ahead: This dessert is great for prepping a day in advance, making it ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.

Variations

• Replace Nilla Wafers with graham crackers for a different crunch.
• Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a chocolate banana cream dessert.
• Incorporate coconut flakes between the layers for a tropical twist.
• Try adding a layer of caramel sauce for added sweetness.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
• Garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers and fresh banana slices right before serving.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent touch.
• Consider serving with a side of cocoa or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for the best freshness.
• Reheating: This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dessert as it may compromise the texture of the Nilla Wafers and pudding.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

In testing this recipe, I realized that sometimes the simplest desserts evoke the most heartfelt memories-especially when shared with loved ones during the holidays. This Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert has become a cherished staple at my tables, reminding me that classic flavors will always warm my heart and home.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 12 servings · Serving Size: 1 portion

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 3g protein · 36g carbs · 10g fat

Recipe by:

Elena SMITH

Decadent Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert

This Nilla Wafers Banana Cream Dessert combines layers of creamy pudding, bananas, and crunchy wafers for a nostalgic treat that's perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Chill Time 4 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Group: Ingredients

• 1 package Nilla Wafers
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cup milk whole milk preferred
• 1 tub whipped topping like Cool Whip
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: crushed Nilla Wafers and banana slices for garnish

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until the mixture is thick and glossy, usually around 2-5 minutes.
2. Gently fold in the tub of whipped topping and the vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until completely blended.
3. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, lay down a base layer of Nilla Wafers, followed by a layer of the pudding mixture, and then an even layer of sliced bananas. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
5. Serve the dessert straight from the fridge. Garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers and additional banana slices before serving.

Notes

This dessert can be made a day in advance for stress-free entertaining. Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.

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