Indulge in Nostalgia with Paula Deen's Banana Pudding Featuring Chessmen Cookies

Paula Deen's Banana Pudding with Chessmen Cookies is a delightful twist on the classic Southern dessert, bringing together the creamy goodness of banana pudding with the buttery crunch of Chessmen cookies. This iconic recipe, beloved by many, captures the essence of comfort food with every spoonful. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for recreating Paula Deen's famous banana pudding featuring Chessmen cookies.

Ingredients for Paula Deen's Banana Pudding with Chessmen Cookies

To replicate Paula Deen's renowned banana pudding, gather the following ingredients:

2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
6 to 8 ripe bananas, sliced
2 cups whole milk
1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding mix
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Fresh lemon juice (to prevent browning of bananas)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Slice Bananas:

Begin by slicing 6 to 8 ripe bananas into thin rounds.
Drizzle the banana slices with fresh lemon juice to prevent them from browning.

Prepare Pudding Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups whole milk and the instant French vanilla pudding mix.
Whisk until the pudding mix is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens.

Beat Cream Cheese Mixture:

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until well combined.

banana pudding with chessmen cookies paula deen

Fold in Whipped Topping:

Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until evenly incorporated.

2. Assemble the Banana Pudding

Layer Chessmen Cookies:

Arrange a layer of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Add Sliced Bananas:

Place a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.

Pour Pudding Mixture:

Pour the prepared pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading it evenly.

Repeat Layers:

Repeat the layering process, starting with another layer of cookies, followed by bananas, and then pudding mixture, until all ingredients are used.

3. Chill and Serve

Chill Banana Pudding:

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once chilled, serve Paula Deen's Banana Pudding with Chessmen Cookies chilled, with additional Chessmen cookies for garnish if desired.

banana pudding with chessmen cookies paula deen

Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding

Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are ripe but not overly mushy for the best flavor and texture.
Layering Technique: Take care to layer the cookies, bananas, and pudding mixture evenly for a balanced dessert.
Refrigeration Time: Allow the banana pudding to chill for an adequate amount of time to set and develop its flavors.
Garnish Options: Get creative with garnishes by adding whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Paula Deen's Banana Pudding with Chessmen Cookies is a timeless Southern dessert that combines creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and buttery cookies for a taste of nostalgia in every bite. Whether served at family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights at home, this beloved recipe is sure to delight all who try it. Follow this guide to recreate Paula Deen's iconic banana pudding featuring Chessmen cookies and treat yourself to a comforting and indulgent dessert experience.