Description
This Salted Caramel Banana Pudding is a creamy, luscious dessert layered with fresh bananas, classic Nilla wafers, and a rich banana pudding filling, all topped with a delightful salted caramel drizzle. Perfectly chilled for at least six hours, this pudding combines the smoothness of cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk with the lightness of whipped cream (or Cool Whip), creating an irresistible treat for any occasion.
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; this substitutes the whipped topping)
Pudding Mixture
- 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%)
Other Ingredients
- 1 box (11 ounces) Nilla Wafers
- 6 bright yellow bananas (sliced; not too ripe or blackened)
- 1 small jar (12 ounces) salted caramel topping
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare Whipped Topping: If you are not using Cool Whip, in the bowl of a stand mixer, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip using the whisk attachment until stiff peaks form, which should take about 5 minutes. Transfer the whipped cream to a separate bowl and refrigerate. Clean the mixing bowl for reuse.
- Make the Banana Pudding Mixture: In the cleaned stand mixer bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and beat until smooth, scraping the bowl sides and bottom as needed. Add the dry instant banana pudding mix and mix thoroughly. Gradually pour in the milk while mixing until fully combined.
- Combine with Whipped Cream: Fold in ¾ of the prepared whipped cream or one container of Cool Whip gently into the pudding mixture until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Assemble the Pudding Layers: In a prepared baking dish, place an even layer of Nilla Wafers on the bottom. Top with a layer of sliced bananas. Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the bananas and wafers.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of Nilla Wafers and sliced bananas. Spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly on top. Finally, spread the remaining whipped cream or Cool Whip evenly over the surface.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
- Add Salted Caramel and Serve: When ready to serve, drizzle the top with the salted caramel topping. Garnish with additional banana slices, Nilla Wafers, and sprinkle with sea salt to enhance flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Use firm, bright yellow bananas rather than overly ripe or blackened ones to maintain freshness and texture.
- Cool Whip can be used as a convenient substitute for the homemade whipped cream.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the pudding mixture.
- The pudding is best served after chilling for at least 6 hours or overnight to develop the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of salted caramel and sea salt topping based on your taste preference for sweetness and saltiness.
