fortune mouse fortune mouse

Light • Creamy • Dreamy • Perfect for Parties


Quick Description

Banana Pudding Lush is a rich, layered no-bake dessert made with creamy banana pudding, soft cream cheese filling, fresh bananas, and buttery vanilla wafer crumbs. It tastes like classic Southern banana pudding but with an ultra-smooth, cloud-like texture and irresistible layered look. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or days when you want a cold, comforting dessert.


Servings & Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 3–4 hours
Total Time: 3 hrs 20 min


You Will Need

Crust Layer

  • 1 box vanilla wafers (2½ cups crushed crumbs)
  • ½ cup melted butter

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)

Banana Pudding Layer

  • 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant banana pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 cup whipped topping

Banana Layer

  • 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced

Topping

  • 1–2 cups whipped topping
  • Extra vanilla wafer crumbs
  • Extra banana slices

Instructions

1. Make the Crust

  1. Crush vanilla wafers into fine crumbs.
  2. Mix with melted butter until sandy and fully coated.
  3. Press evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 or 9×13 pan.
  4. Chill while preparing other layers.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add powdered sugar + vanilla extract and continue beating.
  3. Fold in whipped topping gently until smooth and airy.
  4. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.

3. Add the Banana Layer

  1. Slice bananas right before layering.
  2. Arrange evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  3. This keeps the bananas fresh and prevents browning.

4. Make the Banana Pudding Layer

  1. Whisk together cold milk and banana pudding mixes until thickened.
  2. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping to make it extra creamy.
  3. Spread pudding over the banana layer.

5. Add the Final Topping

  1. Spread a generous layer of whipped topping on top.
  2. Garnish with:
    • banana slices
    • vanilla wafer crumbs

Chill

Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight for the best set and flavor.


Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Fridge: Up to 3 days (bananas may darken slightly after day 2)
  • Freezer: Not recommended — pudding may separate
  • Best Make-Ahead Time: 12–18 hours before serving