Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding”

Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding” is a game-changer in the world of desserts. This recipe takes the classic Southern banana pudding and elevates it with layers of creamy pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping, paired with the buttery crunch of Chessmen cookies.

It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a no-bake treat that feels indulgent and nostalgic.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
• 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (5 oz) box instant French vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions

1. Layer the Cookies and Bananas
   • Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with one bag of Chessmen cookies. Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cookies.
2. Make the Cream Mixture
   • In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
3. Prepare the Pudding
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
4. Add the Whipped Topping
   • Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until no streaks remain.
5. Assemble the Pudding
   • Pour the cream mixture over the banana layer, spreading evenly. Top with the second bag of Chessmen cookies to create a decorative layer.
6. Chill and Serve
   • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

Prep Time

15 minutes

Chill Time

4 hours (or overnight)

Total Time

4 hours 15 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 12)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg

Expert Tips

• Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Banana Freshness: Use ripe, but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: This pudding tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie?
Yes! Vanilla wafers or graham crackers work well if Chessmen cookies aren’t available.

Can I substitute the whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream for a more natural option. Beat 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form.

How long does it last?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookies may soften further, but it will still taste delicious.

Storing & Reheating

• Storing: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dessert doesn’t freeze well due to the whipped topping and banana content.

Substitutions & Variations

• Low Sugar: Use sugar-free pudding mix and whipped topping for a lighter version.
• Flavors: Swap French vanilla pudding for banana or butterscotch pudding for a twist.
• Toppings: Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on top before serving for extra decadence.

Paula Deen's "Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding"

Paula Deen's "Not Yo' Mama's Banana Pudding" is a game-changer in the world of desserts. This recipe takes the classic Southern banana pudding and elevates it with layers of creamy pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping, paired with the buttery crunch of Chessmen cookies.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• - Large mixing bowl
• - Hand mixer or stand mixer
• - 9x13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• - 2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies
• - 6 to 8 bananas sliced
• - 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
• - 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
• - 1 5 oz box instant French vanilla pudding mix
• - 2 cups cold milk
• - 1 12 oz container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

 

• **Layer the Cookies and Bananas**
• - Line the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish with one bag of Chessmen cookies. Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cookies.
• **Make the Cream Mixture**
• - In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
• **Prepare the Pudding**
• - In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
• **Add the Whipped Topping**
• - Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until no streaks remain.
• **Assemble the Pudding**
• - Pour the cream mixture over the banana layer, spreading evenly. Top with the second bag of Chessmen cookies to create a decorative layer.
• **Chill and Serve**
• - Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!