Description
This creamy and delicious Banana Pudding Fluff combines smooth cream cheese, instant banana cream pudding, whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and fresh bananas to create a light and fluffy dessert that's perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat. Chilled and topped with crunchy vanilla wafers and extra banana slices, it's a refreshing twist on classic banana pudding.
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 16 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Pudding
- 2 packages instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
- 1 1/2 cups 2% or whole milk
Mix-Ins and Toppings
- 12 ounces frozen whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 large bananas (peeled and sliced)
- 30 vanilla wafer cookies (coarsely crushed)
- Additional whipped topping (for garnish)
- Additional sliced bananas (for garnish)
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese for 3 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat for an additional 3 minutes to create a creamy, sweet base.
- Prepare Pudding: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the dry instant banana cream pudding mixes and milk until fully combined. Let the pudding mixture set for a few minutes to thicken and achieve the right consistency.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the set pudding mixture to the cream cheese base, then beat until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl sides as needed to ensure all the cream cheese is blended smoothly into the pudding.
- Fold in Whipped Topping and Marshmallows: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until completely blended. Next, fold in the mini marshmallows carefully to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and the fluff set.
- Add Bananas and Garnish: Just before serving, fold in the sliced bananas to the chilled fluff. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the coarsely crushed vanilla wafer cookies. Garnish with additional whipped topping and extra banana slices for a beautiful and tasty finish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor, but not overly ripe to prevent browning.
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate longer than 2 hours if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; add fresh bananas just before serving to prevent discoloration.
- Vanilla wafer cookies add a delightful crunch; substitute with graham crackers if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
