Description
Chessmen Banana Pudding is a creamy, dreamy no-bake dessert layered with buttery Chessmen cookies, fresh banana slices, and a rich vanilla cream filling. Made with cream cheese, French vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, this easy dessert is perfect for potlucks, holidays, family gatherings, and parties. The hardest part is waiting for it to chill!
Ingredients
- 40 Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies (2 packages)
- 6–8 medium bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (5-ounce) box French vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Arrange approximately 20 Chessmen cookies in a single layer across the bottom of a 9x13x2-inch baking dish.
- Slice the bananas and arrange them evenly over the cookie layer.
- In a medium bowl, combine the milk and French vanilla pudding mix.
- Beat with a hand mixer until smooth, then allow the pudding to set.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk for about 1 minute until creamy.
- Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then beat again for another 30 seconds.
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula.
- Add the cream cheese mixture to the prepared pudding and stir until everything is well combined.
- Pour the creamy filling over the bananas and cookies, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the remaining Chessmen cookies over the top of the pudding.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cookies to soften and the layers to set.
- Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy!
Notes
- Serve chilled: Keep the pudding refrigerated until ready to serve. It tastes best when cold and fully set.
- Use ripe bananas: Choose ripe but firm bananas for natural sweetness without a mushy texture.
- Make ahead: Prepare this dessert the night before serving. Overnight chilling allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to blend.
- Refrigerator storage: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 2–3 days for the best quality.
- Prevent browning: Arrange banana slices between the cookies and cream filling to limit their exposure to air. You can also lightly toss them with lemon juice.
- Keep cookies fresh: Add a few extra Chessmen cookies on top just before serving if you prefer a slightly crispier garnish.
- Serving for parties: Use a large spoon to scoop portions into dessert bowls or cut neat squares once the pudding is thoroughly chilled.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended because the bananas and creamy filling may change texture after thawing.