What exactly is Banana Pudding Lush dessert?

Banana pudding lush is a no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy vanilla wafer or graham cracker crust, creamy layers of whipped cream cheese and pudding (usually instant vanilla and banana pudding), fresh banana slices, and a whipped topping finish. It’s sometimes called a dessert lasagna due to its layered structure and is popular for serving groups at gatherings.

What ingredients do I need to make Banana Pudding Lush at home?

The main ingredients include: - Crust: 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers, 1/4 cup sugar, 6 tbsp melted butter - Cream Cheese Layer: 8 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract - Pudding Layer: 1 package instant vanilla pudding, 1 package instant banana pudding, 4 cups whole milk - Bananas: 4 to 5 firm, ripe bananas sliced - Whipped Topping: 2 cups Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream Alternatives include using shortbread cookies for crust or homemade whipped cream for topping. For the full recipe and exact measurements, visit our detailed recipe page.

How do I choose the best bananas for Banana Pudding Lush?

Choose firm, ripe bananas without brown spots to ensure the slices hold their shape and add natural sweetness. Overripe bananas may cause browning and a mushy texture in the dessert. To prevent browning, you can lightly toss banana slices in lemon juice or ensure they are fully covered by the pudding layer. For tips on keeping bananas fresh, see how to keep bananas from browning.

Can I make Banana Pudding Lush ahead of time and how should I store it?

Yes, banana pudding lush can be prepared a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld and layers to set. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Avoid freezing the whole dessert as it can affect the texture and cause bananas to brown, but individual portions can be frozen if necessary.

Banana Pudding Lush Recipe: Easy No-Bake Creamy Dessert

Name: No-Bake Banana Cream Lush Dessert Recipe for Easy, Creamy Indulgence
Prep time: 4 h 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (or graham crackers/shortbread cookies as alternatives); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix; 4 cups cold milk; 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream); Extra crushed vanilla wafers and banana slices for garnish; Optional: Lemon juice to toss bananas to prevent browning

Description

🍌 Indulge in the creamy layers and luscious flavors of this No-Bake Banana Cream Lush Dessert—a perfect treat for any occasion.
🍨 This easy-to-make dessert combines fresh bananas, creamy pudding, and a crunchy crust for a delightful, comforting experience.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (or graham crackers/shortbread cookies as alternatives)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
4 cups cold milk
1 1/2 cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
Extra crushed vanilla wafers and banana slices for garnish
Optional: Lemon juice to toss bananas to prevent browning

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until mixture is well coated.
2. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool completely.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
5. Arrange sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix, instant banana pudding mix, and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
7. Pour pudding mixture over the banana layer, covering bananas completely.
8. Spread whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
9. Sprinkle extra crushed vanilla wafers over the top and garnish with additional banana slices.
10. Refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours until set and chilled.
11. Serve cold and enjoy!

Notes

🍽️ Use firm ripe bananas to avoid mushy layers in the dessert.
❄️ Prepare the dessert a day ahead to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
🍋 Toss banana slices with a little lemon juice if not fully covered to prevent browning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake, Layering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (about)
Calories: 310 kcal
Sugar: 28 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg