Delightful Banana Cream Dessert is a luscious, no-bake treat that layers the flavors of creamy banana pudding, smooth cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or an indulgent dessert at home, this sweet delight combines simplicity with elegance.
The texture of the crunchy graham cracker crust perfectly complements the creamy filling and fresh banana slices, creating a well-balanced and utterly satisfying dessert. It’s an easy recipe that delivers stunning results, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Simple and Quick: Minimal baking required for an easy-to-make dessert.
• Versatile: Perfect for any gathering or as a sweet treat for your family.
• Banana Bliss: The combination of real bananas and banana pudding creates a flavor-packed dessert.
Ingredients
Crust:
• 1¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup melted butter
Filling:
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
• 3 to 4 medium bananas, sliced
Pudding Layer:
• 1¾ cups 2% milk
• 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant banana cream pudding mix
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch square or round baking dish.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in 2 cups of the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
Step 3: Add the First Layer of Bananas and Cream
1. Slice half of the bananas and arrange them evenly over the cooled crust.
2. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the banana layer, smoothing it with a spatula.
Step 4: Prepare the Pudding
1. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and banana cream pudding mix together for about 2 minutes.
2. Let the pudding sit for another 2 minutes until it begins to set.
3. Fold the remaining whipped topping into the pudding mixture gently.
Step 5: Assemble the Dessert
1. Spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish.
2. Slice the remaining bananas and arrange them decoratively on top.
Step 6: Chill
1. Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or until the layers are firm and well-set.
Step 7: Serve
1. Slice the dessert into squares or wedges and serve chilled.
2. Optionally, garnish with additional whipped topping or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for presentation.
Tips
• Banana Tips: Use ripe, firm bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dessert up to a day in advance and refrigerate until serving.
• Extra Toppings: Add chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts for an extra indulgent touch.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the bananas may become mushy when thawed.
Delightful Banana Cream Dessert is a simple yet elegant dessert that delivers big on flavor. Its layers of creamy goodness and fresh bananas will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!
