As a seasoned food enthusiast who’s whisked and baked through countless recipes, I’ve always had a soft spot for the sweet, comforting embrace of banana pudding. Now, let me take you through the making of Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding, a recipe so lusciously creamy and delightfully flavorful, it turns a simple dessert into a showstopper.
Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding Recipe Overview
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus chilling
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you’ve got the right tools to bring this pudding to perfection. You’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer
- A spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A trifle bowl or individual serving dishes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bananas, sliced | 4 medium |
| Vanilla wafers | 1 box (11 oz.) |
| Whole milk | 3 cups |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 2 packages (3.4 oz each) |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Condensed sweetened milk | 14 oz can |
| Frozen whipped topping, thawed | 12 oz |
Fact: Did you know Patti LaBelle calls this her “Over-the-Top, Lick-the-Spoon-Delicious Banana Pudding”? It’s all about that extra creamy texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Pudding Mix
- Gather Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients. It helps to have everything measured and ready to go.
- Mix the Pudding: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and pudding mix until smooth. It will get thicker after 5 minutes.
Note: Ensure your milk is cold for the best results in setting the pudding.
Step 2 – Blend the Creamy Base
- Combine Cream Cheese and Condensed Milk: In another bowl, use your electric mixer to blend the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the condensed milk and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping, being careful not to deflate it.
Step 3 – Layer the Ingredients
- Layer Wafers and Bananas: In your trifle bowl, layer one-third of the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of bananas.
- Add Pudding Mixture: Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the bananas and spread evenly.
- Repeat: Add another layer of wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture. Top with the last of the bananas and wafers.
Warning: Don’t press down too hard on the layers; you want to keep it light and airy!
Step 4 – Top It Off
- Add Final Touches: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the top layer of wafers.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Additional Tips
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cream cheese, and light whipped topping without compromising too much on the taste.
Pairing Suggestions
A good dessert pairs well with a great drink. Consider:
- Freshly brewed coffee
- A glass of milk
- Sweet iced tea
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60g |
| Protein | 6g |
Approximation Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and sizes.
Dietary Information
This Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding is vegetarian-friendly. To adapt it for a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free vanilla wafers.
FAQs about Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding
How long can you store banana pudding?
You can keep this pudding refrigerated for up to 4 days, making sure it’s covered to avoid absorbing other flavors.
Can you freeze banana pudding?
While you can freeze it, I wouldn’t recommend it. The texture of the bananas and the cream might change, losing that silky consistency.
What are the best bananas to use?
Opt for ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas can be too mushy, affecting the texture of your pudding.
Can I make Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding in advance?
Without a doubt, making it the day before lets the flavors blend perfectly. Just add the final whipped topping layer before serving.
Is there a substitute for vanilla wafers?
Yes, you can use shortbread cookies or even graham crackers for a different twist.
How can I make this dessert less sweet?
Reduce the amount of condensed milk and use unsweetened whipped topping for the top layer.
Why is my pudding not setting?
Make sure to give the pudding proper chilling time, and use the correct ratios of pudding mix to milk as specified.
Conclusion
Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting, creamy delight that wraps up any meal with a sweet, satisfying finish. Try making it for your next gathering and watch it become the star of the show!
You can leave your thoughts, questions, or notes about this recipe below. I love hearing about your cooking stories!
Check out some more delicious dessert recipes:
- Costco Fruitcake Recipe
- Cici’s Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Maggiano’s Gigi Butter Cake Recipe: A Sinful Delight from Scratch
- Salpores de Arroz Recipe: The Most Delicious Treat
- Fricassee Cake Recipe: A Delightful Dessert for Any Occasion
Patti LaBelle Banana Pudding Recipe
Equipment
- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer
- A spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A trifle bowl or individual serving dishes
Ingredients
- 4 medium Bananas sliced
- 1 box 11 oz. Vanilla wafers
- 3 cups Whole milk
- 2 packages 3.4 oz each Instant vanilla pudding mix
- 8 oz Cream cheese softened
- 1 can 14 oz Condensed sweetened milk
- 12 oz Frozen whipped topping thawed
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Pudding Mix
- Gather Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients. It helps to have everything measured and ready to go.
- Mix the Pudding: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and pudding mix until smooth. It will get thicker after 5 minutes.
- Note: Ensure your milk is cold for the best results in setting the pudding.
Step 2 – Blend the Creamy Base
- Combine Cream Cheese and Condensed Milk: In another bowl, use your electric mixer to blend the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the condensed milk and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping, being careful not to deflate it.
Step 3 – Layer the Ingredients
- Layer Wafers and Bananas: In your trifle bowl, layer one-third of the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of bananas.
- Add Pudding Mixture: Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the bananas and spread evenly.
- Repeat: Add another layer of wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture. Top with the last of the bananas and wafers.
- Warning: Don’t press down too hard on the layers; you want to keep it light and airy!
Step 4 – Top It Off
- Add Final Touches: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the top layer of wafers.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cream cheese, and light whipped topping without compromising too much on the taste.
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