The Best Banana Pudding Ever

Ingredients

• 1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla pudding mix (instant)
• 2 3/4 cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip)
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafer cookies (about 45 cookies)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Stir for 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Set aside.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
   • In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Fold in the whipped topping until combined.
3. Combine the Pudding and Cream Cheese Mixture:
   • Gently fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture, combining them until smooth and creamy.
4. Layer the Pudding:
   • In a 9×13-inch dish, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom.
   • Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies, followed by a layer of the pudding mixture.
   • Repeat the layers, ending with the pudding mixture on top.
5. Chill:
   • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
6. Serve:
   • Just before serving, you can optionally garnish with additional crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices on top.

This creamy, dreamy banana pudding is a crowd favorite and perfect for any occasion.