Ultimate Guide to Banana Pudding Without Bananas With Condensed Milk

If you love the creamy texture and rich flavor of banana pudding but prefer to skip the bananas, you're in for a treat. This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic dessert, using condensed milk for an extra layer of sweetness and richness. Let's explore how to make a delicious banana pudding without bananas.

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Layers:

  • 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies (for topping)

banana pudding without bananas with condensed milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding Mixture

  • Combine Condensed Milk and Water:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until fully combined.
  • Add Pudding Mix:
    • Gradually whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 2 minutes.
  • Chill:
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the mixture is firm.

2. Whip the Cream

  • Whip Heavy Cream:
    • In a separate large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  • Fold into Pudding:
    • Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until well combined and smooth.

banana pudding without bananas with condensed milk

3. Assemble the Pudding

  • Layer Cookies and Pudding:
    • In a trifle dish or large serving bowl, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom.
    • Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the cookies, spreading it evenly.
    • Repeat layers, alternating between cookies and pudding, until you reach the top of the dish.
  • Top with Crushed Cookies:
    • Sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafer cookies over the top layer of pudding for added texture and visual appeal.

4. Chill and Serve

  • Refrigerate:
    • Cover the assembled pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften slightly.
  • Serve:
    • Serve the pudding chilled, garnished with additional whipped cream if desired.

Tips and Variations

  • Flavor Boost:
    • For an extra burst of flavor, add a tablespoon of banana extract to the pudding mixture.
  • Layer with Chocolate:
    • Add a layer of chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate between the layers for a decadent twist.
  • Use Different Cookies:
    • Try substituting the vanilla wafer cookies with graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a different texture and flavor profile.

Conclusion

This banana pudding without bananas and with condensed milk is a luscious and indulgent dessert that retains the beloved flavors of the classic dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the creamy, sweet goodness without the bananas, and relish every spoonful of this delightful treat!