If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a sweet hug from the South but with a modern twist, you have to try Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe. It takes the classic banana pudding we all love and turns it into something irresistibly creamy, tangy, and delightfully crunchy. With layers of luscious vanilla pudding, rich cream cheese, fluffy Cool Whip, fresh banana slices, and those iconic Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies, this dessert strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s for a potluck, family dinner, or just a weekend indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite that everyone will be asking for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe is how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a big role in building the smooth, creamy texture and those perfect sweet and tangy notes that make this pudding unforgettable. From the silky cream cheese to the crunch of the Chessmen cookies, these ingredients come together in harmony to create something really special.
- 2 cups milk: The liquid base that helps the pudding reach that perfect creamy consistency.
- 5 ounce box instant vanilla pudding: Adds that classic banana pudding flavor with quick preparation.
- 8 ounce package cream cheese (softened): Brings a rich tang and velvety texture that lifts the dessert to the next level.
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens and thickens the pudding while adding a creamy depth.
- 8 ounce container Cool Whip (thawed): Lightens the mixture with fluffiness for that dreamy mouthfeel.
- 2 packages Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies: These buttery, crisp cookies provide the iconic crunch and buttery flavor that balances every bite.
- 6 bananas (peeled and sliced): Fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness and a soft contrast to the crunchy layers.
How to Make Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Pudding and Milk
Start by combining the milk with the instant vanilla pudding mix in a medium bowl. Whisk them together thoroughly until the mixture thickens. This step is crucial because it ensures the pudding sets up perfectly, giving you that signature smooth texture we all crave in banana pudding.
Step 2: Blend the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until you get a smooth, lump-free mixture. Then, gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until everything is well combined but still light and fluffy. Finally, mix in the thickened vanilla pudding from Step 1. This creamy mixture is where the magic happens—it’s rich, sweet, and has just the right amount of tang to keep things interesting.
Step 3: Layer the Cookies
Grab a 9×13-inch pan and line the bottom with a single layer of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies. This cookie layer forms the crisp, buttery foundation of your pudding and will soak up the moisture beautifully during chilling without getting soggy too fast.
Step 4: Add the Banana Slices
Next, evenly spread a layer of freshly sliced bananas over the cookies. Using ripe but firm bananas works best so they hold their shape and add natural sweetness without getting mushy.
Step 5: Pour the Pudding Mixture Over
Carefully pour the luscious pudding mixture on top of the bananas, spreading it evenly. This creamy layer not only tastes incredible but also locks in moisture to soften the cookies while keeping the bananas fresh.
Step 6: Finish With More Cookies and Chill
Top the pudding mixture with another layer of Chessmen cookies. Cover the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows all the flavors to marry and the layers to set perfectly so every spoonful tastes divine.
How to Serve Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To add some extra flair when serving, sprinkle a few crushed Chessmen cookies or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. Fresh mint leaves can also add a wonderful pop of color and a subtle herbal contrast to the sweet, creamy pudding.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with tangy fruit salads or a light scoop of raspberry sorbet. Crisp, iced tea or a chilled glass of sweet white wine complement the flavors beautifully if you’re serving it at a gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this pudding in individual glass parfait cups for a pretty, personal touch or serve it buffet-style in a trifle bowl to show off those gorgeous layers. You can also turn the leftovers into banana pudding milkshakes by blending them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—talk about a treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pudding will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, though I bet it won’t last that long!
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not recommended for this particular banana pudding because the texture of the bananas and cookies can become mushy and lose that wonderful contrast you love. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This dessert is best served cold, so there’s no reheating involved. Just take it out of the fridge and let it sit for a few minutes if it feels too chilled before digging in.
FAQs
Can I use fresh homemade vanilla pudding instead of instant?
Absolutely! If you prefer making your own pudding from scratch, that will work beautifully and add an extra fresh flavor to the pudding. Just be sure it’s well chilled and thickened before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
What if I don’t have Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies?
You can substitute with any buttery, crisp cookies like vanilla wafers or shortbread. The key is to use something sturdy that will hold up underneath the creamy layers.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The bananas should be ripe enough to be sweet but still firm enough to slice without turning mushy. Overripe bananas can make the pudding too soft and watery.
Can I make this banana pudding vegan?
With some ingredient swaps like using dairy-free cream cheese, a plant-based milk, and vegan whipped topping, you can get close to replicating this dessert. However, the flavor and texture may be a little different from the original.
How long should I chill the pudding for best results?
Refrigerating for at least 4 hours is essential to let the layers meld and the cookies soften just right, but chilling it overnight is even better for maximum flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress friends and family with a dessert that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new, Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe is your go-to. It’s easy to make, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers layers of creamy, crunchy, and fruity goodness in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it over and over again!
Print
Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding is a creamy, no-bake dessert featuring layers of instant vanilla pudding, cream cheese, and sweetened condensed milk combined with sliced bananas and Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies. This luscious treat is chilled until set, offering a deliciously smooth and indulgent banana pudding perfect for gatherings or a comforting homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Pudding Mixture
- 2 cups milk
- 5 ounce box instant vanilla pudding
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounce container Cool Whip, thawed
Assembly
- 2 packages Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
- 6 bananas, peeled and sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk briskly until the mixture thickens, then set aside to rest.
- Mix cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth and creamy. Fold in the thawed Cool Whip gently until fully blended, then mix in the thickened vanilla pudding. Set this mixture aside.
- Layer cookies: Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan with a single even layer of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies, creating the base of the pudding.
- Add bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly on top of the cookie layer, ensuring full coverage for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Assemble pudding layer: Pour the prepared creamy pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer, spreading gently to cover completely.
- Top with cookies: Finish by placing a final layer of Chessmen cookies over the pudding mixture, adding a delightful crunch on top.
- Chill to set: Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the pudding to set firm.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, slice into portions and serve this rich, refreshing banana pudding chilled for best taste.
Notes
- For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to maintain slices intact and prevent excessive browning.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead, making it convenient for parties or special occasions.
- If desired, substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Store leftover pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
