Ever wondered how to make a classic southern dessert even better? Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding recipe is your answer. It takes the traditional southern-style banana pudding and gives it a tasty makeover. This homemade version is sure to delight your taste buds.
Paula Deen’s famous recipe has become a hit, with over 1,000 shares on Pinterest. It’s quick to make, needing only 15 minutes of prep time. Plus, it serves 12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
The secret to this pudding’s success lies in its ingredients. It uses French vanilla instant pudding, sweetened condensed milk, and cream cheese. These create a rich, creamy base that’s unlike any other.
This recipe stands out because it uses unique ingredients. Instead of traditional vanilla wafers, it calls for Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies. These cookies add a buttery, shortbread flavor that goes perfectly with the bananas. The result is a dessert that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Key Takeaways
- Paula Deen’s recipe has over 1,000 shares on Pinterest
- Serves 12 people with just 15 minutes of prep time
- Uses French vanilla instant pudding for enhanced flavor
- Incorporates cream cheese for extra richness
- Features Chessmen cookies instead of vanilla wafers
- Combines traditional elements with modern twists
Introducing a Southern Classic with a Modern Twist
Get ready for an old-fashioned banana pudding with a twist. This easy recipe takes the classic Southern dessert to new heights. It combines creamy pudding, vanilla wafers, and fresh bananas for a heavenly treat.
This no-bake delight uses cream cheese and condensed milk for a rich texture. The result is a dessert that’s perfect for gatherings and easy for cooks of all levels.
“Southern cuisine has expanded to include modern twists on classic recipes, and this banana pudding is no exception.”
Let’s compare this recipe to the classic version:
| Feature | Classic Banana Pudding | Not Yo Mama’s Version |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Baked | No-bake |
| Key Ingredients | Pudding, wafers, bananas | Cream cheese, condensed milk, pudding, wafers, bananas |
| Texture | Light and fluffy | Rich and creamy |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy |
This modern take on old-fashioned banana pudding is set to become your new favorite. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress with its delicious flavors and creamy texture.
The Origin of Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding
Paula Deen made a big change with Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding. This new take on the classic dessert has won many fans. It’s now considered one of the top banana pudding recipes.
Paula Deen’s Influence
Paula Deen, a famous Southern chef, changed the game with her banana pudding recipe. She added cream cheese and condensed milk for a creamy twist. This made it different from the usual recipes.
Evolving a Traditional Dessert
Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding elevates the classic dessert. It uses Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies instead of vanilla wafers for a unique taste. The recipe is quick to make, taking only 30 minutes, and serves 12 people. It’s ideal for parties.
Why It’s Called “Not Yo Mama’s”
The name “Not Yo Mama’s” shows how special this banana pudding is. It’s a fun way to say it’s not the traditional recipe. The pudding is a hit, with a 4.89 rating from 69 votes and lots of shares online.
| Feature | Traditional Banana Pudding | Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding |
|---|---|---|
| Base Cookie | Vanilla Wafers | Chessmen Cookies |
| Special Ingredients | None | Cream Cheese, Condensed Milk |
| Preparation Time | Varies | 30 minutes |
| Servings | Varies | 12 |
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Pudding
Creating a creamy banana pudding starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need a mix of classic and unique items. These ingredients will take your dessert to new heights.
First, grab two 7.25 oz bags of Chessmen cookies. For the pudding, you’ll need a 5.1 oz box of instant French vanilla pudding and 2 cups of whole milk. The creamy texture comes from a 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk, an 8 oz brick of room temperature cream cheese, and a 12 oz container of thawed Cool Whip.
Don’t forget 6-8 medium bananas, sliced 1/2″ thick, for layering. These fresh bananas are essential for that authentic flavor in your creamy banana pudding.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chessmen cookies | 2 bags (7.25 oz each) |
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Instant French vanilla pudding | 1 box (5.1 oz) |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Cream cheese | 1 brick (8 oz) |
| Cool Whip | 1 container (12 oz) |
| Bananas | 6-8 medium |
With these quality ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious banana pudding. The freshness and quality of your ingredients are key to the final taste of your dessert.
Step-by-Step Guide: Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe
Making this easy banana pudding recipe is simple. Follow these steps to create a homemade banana pudding that will wow everyone.
Preparing the Cookie Base
Begin by lining a 13x9x2-inch dish with Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies. These cookies bring a special touch to the dish, unlike traditional vanilla wafers. Next, arrange 6-8 sliced bananas over the cookies.
Mixing the Creamy Filling
In a bowl, mix 2 cups of milk with a 5-ounce box of instant French vanilla pudding. In another bowl, cream 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with a 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Then, add 12 ounces of whipped topping and mix well. Finally, combine this mix with the pudding.
Layering the Pudding
Pour the creamy mix over the cookies and bananas. Add more cookies on top, pressing them gently into the pudding. This layering makes sure every bite is full of flavor.
Chilling and Setting
Put the dish under a cover and chill it for at least 4 hours before serving. This lets the flavors blend and the pudding set right. For the best taste, prepare it a day before.
This recipe makes a dessert that’s both rich and light. Each serving has 77 calories, 15g of carbs, and 2g of protein. It’s a hit that keeps well in the fridge for 2 days or can be frozen for 2 months.
The Secret to Creamy Texture: Cream Cheese and Condensed Milk
The best banana pudding recipe uses a secret mix that makes it stand out. At its core, cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk work together. This combo gives it a rich, smooth texture unlike other recipes.
- 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
- 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk
- 5 oz box of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups of milk
- 8 oz container of Cool Whip
Cream cheese adds a tangy flavor. Condensed milk makes it sweet and thick. Together with pudding mix and milk, they form a creamy base that’s both rich and light.
Cool Whip adds to the airy texture, making the pudding indulgent but not too heavy. This recipe is quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes. But it needs at least 4 hours to chill and set right.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz | Adds tanginess and richness |
| Condensed Milk | 14 oz | Provides sweetness and creaminess |
| Cool Whip | 8 oz | Enhances light, airy texture |
Choosing the Right Cookies: Chessmen vs. Vanilla Wafers
The choice of cookies is crucial for banana pudding. Let’s look at Chessmen cookies and vanilla wafers. Both are great for this classic dessert.
Texture Differences
Chessmen cookies add a unique crunch to your pudding. They’re crisp and buttery, which contrasts well with the creamy filling. Vanilla wafers are softer and soak up more moisture. This makes them feel like cake in your pudding.
Flavor Profile Comparison
The taste of your banana pudding changes with the cookies you use. Chessmen cookies have a rich, buttery flavor that goes well with bananas. Vanilla wafers add a light vanilla taste. This enhances the dessert without taking over.
| Cookie Type | Texture | Flavor | Moisture Absorption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chessmen | Crisp | Buttery | Low |
| Vanilla Wafers | Soft | Vanilla | High |
Availability and Substitutions
Chessmen cookies are great for their flavor, but vanilla wafers are more common. If you can’t find Chessmen, vanilla wafers work well. For something different, try graham crackers or crispy Italian ladyfingers for a unique touch.
For the best banana pudding, balance flavors and textures. Whether you pick Chessmen or vanilla wafers, use ripe bananas and quality ingredients. Your pudding will be delicious either way.
Tips for Selecting and Preparing Bananas
Choosing the right bananas is key for your homemade banana pudding. Go for bananas that are just ripe enough. They should be firm but give a bit when pressed. This makes them perfect for layering in your pudding.
- Brush banana slices with lemon juice
- Rinse slices with club soda
- Keep bananas airtight to reduce oxidation
For a classic banana pudding, use 3-4 ripe bananas. You can adjust this number to your taste. Brown bananas are packed with antioxidants, making them a great pick for dessert.
When making your banana pudding, slice the bananas right before adding them. This helps keep them fresh. If you’re preparing it ahead, think about using Chessmen cookies instead of vanilla wafers. They keep their shape better over time.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bananas | 3-4 | Barely ripe |
| Vanilla Wafers | 2 boxes | Or Chessmen cookies |
| Instant Vanilla Pudding | 2 boxes | Mix with 4 cups milk |
| Cool Whip | 1 container | For creamy texture |
For the best taste, eat your banana pudding within 8 hours of making it. This time frame keeps it fresh. It stops the bananas from turning brown too quickly.
Make-Ahead Options and Storage Recommendations
Want to serve the best banana pudding at your next event? Not yo mama’s banana pudding recipe is great for making ahead. Let’s look at how to store and keep this tasty dessert fresh.
Optimal Refrigeration Time
Chill your banana pudding for at least 4 hours for the best texture and flavor. Overnight refrigeration is best, letting flavors blend well. Make sure to plan ahead for the dish to set properly.
Freezing Guidelines
Freezing isn’t the best choice because it changes the texture. But, you can freeze not yo mama’s banana pudding if needed. Wrap the pan well with plastic wrap and foil, or use a container. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Maintaining Freshness
To keep your banana pudding fresh, store it in a container or cover it with plastic wrap in the fridge. It’s best eaten within a week. For single servings, use cups or jars with lids. This is perfect for meal prep and easy serving.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Use airtight container or cover tightly |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly, thaw in fridge overnight |
| Individual Portions | 3-4 days | Use lidded cups or jars |
Remember, the secret to the best banana pudding is using fresh ingredients and giving it enough time to set. Your patience will pay off with a creamy, delicious dessert that will wow everyone!
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Make your southern-style banana pudding stand out with these creative ideas. Serve it in individual dessert cups or mason jars for an elegant look. This makes it easy to control how much each person gets.
For a twist, sprinkle cinnamon on top or drizzle caramel sauce over it. These simple touches can make your banana pudding even more delicious.
Keep your banana pudding cold until you’re ready to serve. It tastes best when it’s cold. If you’re serving it outside, use an ice bath to keep it cool and fresh.
| Serving Size | Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 portion | 329 | 57g | 4g | 10g |
This recipe makes 20 servings, great for big events. It only takes 25 minutes to prepare. People love it, giving it a 4.97 out of 5 rating from 27 votes.
Nutritional Information and Portion Sizes
Knowing the nutritional facts of your homemade banana pudding lets you enjoy it without worrying about your diet. This recipe makes 12 servings, each full of flavor and important nutrients.
Each serving of Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding has about 551 calories. The ingredients make it rich in carbs, protein, and fat. It has 83g of carbs, 9g of protein, and 22g of fat. But, it’s also high in sugar, with 63g per serving.
For those watching their sodium intake, each serving has about 375mg of sodium. It also has important vitamins and minerals like 565IU of Vitamin A, 7mg of Vitamin C, and 222mg of Calcium per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 551 | – |
| Total Fat | 22g | 28% |
| Carbohydrates | 83g | 28% |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Sodium | 375mg | 16% |
Remember, it’s important to control your portions with this rich dessert. You can adjust the size based on your needs or share it with someone. For a lighter option, consider splitting a serving with a friend or saving half for later.
Variations on the Classic: Adding Your Own Twist
The not yo mama’s banana pudding recipe is already a hit. Why not make it even better? Let’s look at some fun ways to make your dessert special.
Chocolate Lover’s Version
For chocolate fans, add cocoa powder to the pudding mix or use chocolate pudding. Add mini chocolate chips between layers for more fun. Swap vanilla wafers for chocolate cookies for a chocolatey treat.
Tropical Fruit Additions
Add a tropical twist by using sliced strawberries or mango chunks. These fruits go great with banana. For something exotic, try shredded coconut or coconut rum in the cream.
Low-Sugar Alternatives
Watching your sugar intake? No problem! Use sugar-free pudding mix and less fat cream cheese. Swap sweetened condensed milk for a sugar-free option or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Lover’s | Cocoa powder, chocolate chips | 15 minutes |
| Tropical Fruit | Strawberries, mango, coconut | 20 minutes |
| Low-Sugar | Sugar-free pudding, Greek yogurt | 15 minutes |
These variations are great when you start with the basic not yo mama’s banana pudding recipe. Feel free to mix and match ideas to create your own special dessert!
Why This Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
The best banana pudding recipe just got even better! It has a 4.7 out of 5 stars rating from 7 reviews. This southern-style banana pudding is loved for its creamy texture and rich flavors.
This recipe stands out with its special ingredients. It uses 2 bags of Pepperidge Farm Chessman cookies for a crunchy bite. The creamy base is made with 2 cups of milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, sweetened condensed milk, and cream cheese.
It’s topped with frozen whipped topping and 6-8 sliced bananas. This dessert is sure to satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.
This recipe serves 12-16 people, making it great for gatherings. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare. But, it’s best if you can chill it for at least 3 hours or overnight. This lets the flavors blend perfectly.
After chilling, you get a southern-style banana pudding that’s perfect for impressing guests. It’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
FAQ
What makes Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding unique?
This recipe takes the classic Southern treat to the next level. It uses cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk for richness. The name “Not Yo Mama’s” highlights its unique and indulgent twist.
What are the key ingredients in Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding?
The main ingredients are sweetened condensed milk, Cool Whip, and Pepperidge Farm Chessman cookies or vanilla wafers. You’ll also need bananas, whole or 2% milk, instant French vanilla pudding mix, and cream cheese.
How do I prepare Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding?
Start by lining a dish with cookies and bananas. Then, mix the milk and pudding together. Next, blend cream cheese and condensed milk separately.
After that, fold in whipped topping and combine the mixtures. Pour the mix over the cookies and bananas. Finish by topping it with more cookies. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before you serve it.
What gives Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding its creamy texture?
The creamy texture comes from the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. This mix makes the pudding richer and creamier than traditional recipes.
Can I substitute the Chessman cookies with another type of cookie?
Absolutely, you can swap Chessman cookies for vanilla wafers or graham crackers. The cookie choice changes the pudding’s taste and texture.
How should I store Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding?
Keep it refrigerated for at least 4 hours before serving. Overnight chilling is even better. Use an airtight container or plastic wrap to cover it. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days. Freezing isn’t recommended because it changes the texture.
Can I make variations of Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding?
Definitely, try adding strawberries, blueberries, or cocoa powder for new tastes. For a sugar-free version, use sugar-free pudding mix and reduced-fat cream cheese.