1. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:
1.1. Mix the Sweetened Condensed Milk and Water:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and ice-cold water. Whisk together until thoroughly combined.
1.2. Add the Pudding Mix:
- Gradually add the instant vanilla pudding mix to the bowl, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened. The pudding will start to set quickly, so be sure to mix it thoroughly.
1.3. Chill the Pudding:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This step allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the pudding is thick and creamy.
2. Whip the Cream:
2.1. Beat the Heavy Cream:
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want the cream to be light and fluffy.
2.2. Fold in the Whipped Cream:
- Once the pudding is fully chilled and set, gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until well combined. This will create a light, mousse-like texture that is incredibly luxurious.
3. Assemble the Banana Pudding:
3.1. Layer the Vanilla Wafers:
- In a large glass trifle dish, 9×13-inch baking dish, or individual serving glasses, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
3.2. Add the Sliced Bananas:
- Top the layer of wafers with a layer of sliced bananas, making sure the bananas cover the wafers evenly.
3.3. Spread the Pudding:
- Spread a generous amount of the vanilla pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula. Ensure the pudding fills in all the gaps between the bananas and wafers.
3.4. Repeat the Layers:
- Continue layering the wafers, bananas, and pudding until you reach the top of your dish, finishing with a final layer of pudding.
4. Chill and Serve:
4.1. Refrigerate:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. The longer the pudding sits, the more the flavors will meld together, and the wafers will soften to perfection.
4.2. Garnish:
- Just before serving, garnish the top of the banana pudding with whipped cream or whipped topping, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers or a few banana slices.
5. Enjoy Your Dessert:
5.1. Serve and Savor:
- Spoon the banana pudding into bowls or serve it directly from the dish. Each bite is a heavenly combination of creamy pudding, soft bananas, and tender wafers that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding:
- Use Ripe Bananas: For the best flavor, use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas can become mushy, while underripe bananas won’t have enough sweetness.
- Make Ahead: Banana pudding tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great dessert to make ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it well-covered in the refrigerator to prevent the bananas from browning.
- Variations: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the bananas and pudding for an extra indulgent twist, or sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for a banana-chocolate combo.
This Best Banana Pudding Ever is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy layers, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it’s a dessert that embodies comfort and joy. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a holiday feast, this banana pudding will undoubtedly be the star of the show. Enjoy!