Paula Deen’s Banana Pudding Recipe — Classic Southern Twist

Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding is a rich, layered Paula Deen dessert made with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies for a delightful crunch.

If you enjoy simple, crowd-pleasing desserts, try the Pineapple Dump Cake or Cherry Pie Bars—easy, sweet treats that work well for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 (7.25-ounce) bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 (5.1-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding (regular or French vanilla)
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (12-ounce) container thawed Cool Whip (or sweetened whipped cream)
• 6–8 medium bananas, sliced about 1/2 inch thick*

Tip: Consider buying an extra bag of cookies in case some are broken. Broken cookies work well for the bottom layer where they’re less noticeable.

You’ll need a 9x13x2-inch baking dish so there’s enough depth for the creamy filling.

Step 1: In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer to combine the milk and instant pudding mix. Mix on low until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk on medium-high until smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture with a rubber spatula, using as few strokes as possible to keep it light.

Step 4: Stir the whipped cream and cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Line the bottom of the 9×13-inch dish with one bag of Chessmen cookies. A 9×13 dish usually fits about four rows by five rows; don’t worry if they don’t reach the edges perfectly.

Step 6: Arrange a single even layer of banana slices over the cookies.

Step 7: Drop the pudding mixture in six or so heaping dollops across the bananas, then gently spread with a spatula until even. Working in sections helps create a smooth, uniform layer.

Step 8: Place the second bag of Chessmen cookies evenly over the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours; overnight chilling yields the best texture.

Tip: If you plan to serve the pudding more than one day after making it, toss the banana slices with 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice to slow browning. If serving within a day, this step is optional.