1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
6–8 ripe bananas, sliced
2 bags (7.25 ounces each) Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies or vanilla wafers
Instructions
Make the Pudding Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk, instant pudding mix, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until smooth and thickened. Set aside for a few minutes.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and creamy. This is your luscious, velvety filling.
Layer the Dessert
In a 9×13-inch dish, line the bottom with one layer of Chessmen cookies. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cookies. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat the layers: cookies, bananas, pudding.
Top It Off
Finish with a final layer of cookies on top for that iconic look and crunch.
Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Tips for Success
Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
For a prettier presentation, reserve some extra cookies and banana slices for decorating just before serving.
Want a twist? Add crushed toffee bits or drizzle with caramel before serving.
Serve chilled — this pudding gets better as it sits!
Why It’s Called “Not Yo’ Mama’s”
The name comes from the fact that this isn’t the banana pudding your mama—or grandma—used to make. No meringue, no baking, no stovetop. Just layers of sweet, creamy goodness with a surprise tang from the cream cheese and a decadent richness from the condensed milk. It’s banana pudding, reimagined.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong banana pudding fan or trying it for the first time, Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding will absolutely win you over. It’s indulgent, nostalgic, and shockingly easy to make. Plus, it’s a surefire hit for holidays, cookouts, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a little sweetness.
So go ahead—grab those bananas, stack those cookies, and treat yourself to a Southern classic done the Paula Deen way. One bite and you’ll see: this really isn’t yo’ mama’s banana pudding.
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