Description
A luscious and creamy Salted Caramel Banana Pudding combining layers of rich banana-flavored pudding, fresh bananas, crunchy Nilla wafers, and a decadent salted caramel topping. This no-bake dessert is chilled for hours to develop perfect flavors and textures, making it an irresistible treat for banana and caramel lovers alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Whipped Topping
- 2 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 containers (8 ounces each) Cool Whip, thawed (optional substitute for homemade whipped cream)
Banana Pudding
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large box (5 ounces) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup milk (2%)
Assembly
- 1 box (11 ounces) Nilla Wafers
- 6 bright yellow bananas, sliced (avoid overly ripe or blackened bananas)
- 1 small jar (12 ounces) salted caramel topping
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Make the Whipped Topping: If using Cool Whip, skip this step. Otherwise, in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip on high speed for about 5 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Transfer the whipped cream to a separate bowl and refrigerate until ready to use. Clean the mixer bowl for the pudding preparation.
- Prepare the Banana Pudding Base: In the clean stand mixer bowl, add softened cream cheese and whip until fluffy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and beat until the mixture is smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the instant banana pudding mix and blend well. Slowly pour in the milk and continue mixing until fully combined.
- Combine Pudding with Whipped Topping: Add 3/4 of the freshly whipped cream or one container of Cool Whip to the pudding mixture. Gently fold it in until well incorporated, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream. Set this mixture aside.
- Layer the Pudding: In a prepared baking dish, create a layer of Nilla wafers evenly on the bottom. Top this with a layer of sliced bananas. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the banana and wafer layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add another even layer of Nilla wafers and sliced bananas on top. Spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the second layer.
- Add Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped cream or the second container of Cool Whip evenly over the top layer of pudding.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
- Serve with Salted Caramel: Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of salted caramel topping over the pudding. Garnish with additional banana slices, Nilla wafers, and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the salted caramel flavor. Enjoy your decadent dessert!
Notes
- For best texture, use bananas that are ripe but not overly soft or brown.
- If you prefer a lighter dessert, substitute heavy cream whipped topping with Cool Whip as directed.
- Allowing the pudding to chill overnight improves flavor absorption and gives the wafers time to soften slightly.
- You can adjust the amount of salted caramel topping and sea salt to suit your taste preferences.
- This recipe serves 10 and is perfect for potlucks or special occasions.
