Description
This Banana Pudding Lush is a creamy, no-bake dessert featuring layers of graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, instant vanilla pudding, and fresh banana slices. Perfect for gatherings, it combines sweet textures and flavors that set beautifully after refrigeration, delivering a luscious and refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Toppings
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- Additional whipped topping for garnish (optional)
- Shaved chocolate or additional graham cracker crumbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until evenly mixed, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Prepare Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Let it sit for about 2 minutes, allowing the pudding to thicken properly.
- Beat Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth, creating a light, fluffy filling.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Follow by topping with the thickened vanilla pudding layer, spreading it smoothly on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Add Bananas: Place the sliced ripe bananas evenly over the pudding layer for fresh fruit flavor and texture.
- Chill: Cover the dish well and refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling step allows the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with additional whipped topping, shaved chocolate, or extra graham cracker crumbs for added presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- For best results, refrigerate overnight to let flavors develop fully and layers set well.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent overly mushy texture after refrigeration.
- Optional garnishes can be tailored to your preference for added sweetness or crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
