Paulette’s $100 Banana Pudding Recipe: Rich, Creamy, and Absolutely Irresistible
A dessert that has earned its extravagant name, Paulette’s $100 Banana Pudding is the ultimate treat for those who crave layers of tropical delight. Passed down from a friend at work, this recipe is as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. The key to its signature taste lies in following the ingredients and steps exactly as written—precision is your ally here. Any deviation, such as using a generic brand, can alter the magic, so stick with the specified items for unparalleled indulgence. Prepare to fall in love with every creamy, banana-filled bite!
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Instant banana pudding mix | 4 boxes | Use a trusted brand for best results |
| Cool Whip (frozen whipped topping) | 3 containers | Make sure it’s thawed before using |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can | Provides the creamy, rich sweetness |
| Bananas | 8 | Choose ripe but firm bananas for slicing |
| Milk | 5 cups | Cold whole milk works perfectly |
| Vanilla wafer cookies | 2 boxes | Any brand of wafers that complements the flavors |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 367.8 |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 17.4 mg |
| Sodium | 566.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 66.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugars | 56.8 g |
| Protein | 5.3 g |
Yield: 12 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration overnight)
Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect banana pudding:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Take a 9×13-inch pan, ensuring it is clean and ready for layering.
- Slice the bananas into even, round slices. Set them aside in a bowl.
Step 2: Assemble the First Layer
- Begin by layering vanilla wafer cookies on the bottom of the pan.
- Top this cookie layer with a single layer of sliced bananas, spreading them evenly across the pan.
- This initial step is crucial—once you make the pudding mixture, you’ll need to work quickly, as it thickens rapidly.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Pudding Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant banana pudding mix, cold milk, Cool Whip, and sweetened condensed milk.
- Use a blender or electric hand mixer to blend the ingredients together.
- Pro Tip: If the mixture seems extremely thick, don’t worry—that’s exactly how it should be! A thick consistency ensures a velvety final texture.
Step 4: Build the Layers
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Spread a generous layer of the pudding mixture on top of the bananas and cookies.
-
Continue layering:
- Add another layer of cookies.
- Follow with another layer of sliced bananas.
- Top with another layer of the pudding mixture.
Repeat the process until the pan is full, ensuring the final layer is the pudding mixture.
Step 5: Add a Decorative Border
- Take additional vanilla wafer cookies and line the edges of the pan with them.
- This not only adds visual appeal but also ensures an extra crunch with every slice.
Step 6: Chill Overnight
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to keep the pudding fresh and moist.
- Refrigerate the pudding overnight—this step is non-negotiable, as it allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften slightly into the pudding layers.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
- Once the pudding has chilled overnight, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Slice into generous portions and serve immediately. Each bite should offer a perfect balance of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and slightly softened cookies.
Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas with a bright yellow peel and no bruises. Overripe bananas can turn mushy in the pudding, while underripe bananas won’t provide the desired sweetness.
- Cookies: To maintain authenticity, use a well-known brand of vanilla wafers for their classic flavor and texture.
- Pudding Mix: Stick to instant banana pudding mix for a strong banana flavor and quick preparation. Substituting with other types of pudding mix will change the dish’s essence.
- Refrigeration: Overnight refrigeration is vital. The extra time allows the cookies to absorb moisture, resulting in a cake-like consistency.
This recipe’s rich flavors, creamy textures, and stunning presentation make it an undeniable crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a decadent treat for yourself. Try it, and let Paulette’s $100 Banana Pudding be the dessert everyone talks about!
