Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana

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🍌 Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding” – The Best Banana Pudding You’ll Ever Taste! 😍

If you think you’ve had good banana pudding before, think again! Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding” is unlike any dessert you’ve ever tried — rich, creamy, and irresistibly indulgent. It’s not your average southern pudding; it’s a no-bake masterpiece that combines layers of buttery cookies, creamy filling, and fresh bananas in every spoonful.

The title says it all: this really is not your mama’s banana pudding — it’s better! And once you make it, you’ll understand why this recipe has gone viral across kitchens everywhere.

💛 A Southern Classic with a Twist

Banana pudding is a classic comfort dessert that’s been loved for generations. Traditionally made with vanilla wafers, pudding, and whipped topping, it’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and sweetness. But Paula Deen took this timeless treat to another level by swapping vanilla wafers for Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies, adding cream cheese, and sweetened condensed milk for an ultra-smooth, velvety texture.

The result? A dessert so delicious it melts in your mouth. Each bite is layered with flavor — creamy, fruity, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying.

🍌 Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make Paula Deen’s Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding:

  • 2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies (or vanilla wafers)
  • 6–8 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 (5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

🧁 Instructions

  1. Layer the base
    Arrange one bag of Chessmen cookies in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. These will form your buttery crust.
  2. Add the bananas
    Slice your ripe bananas and layer them evenly over the cookies. Make sure the bananas are fully ripe for that perfect sweetness!
  3. Prepare the pudding mixture
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding mix until thickened.
  4. Mix the creamy layer
    In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
  5. Combine everything
    Add the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture and stir until smooth and creamy. This is your heavenly pudding filling!
  6. Assemble the dessert
    Pour the pudding mixture over the banana layer and spread it evenly. Top with the second bag of Chessmen cookies for a beautiful finish.
  7. Chill and serve
    Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

🍨 Why Everyone Loves This Banana Pudding

✅ No baking required – just mix, layer, and chill!

✅ Perfect texture – creamy, fluffy, and not too sweet

✅ Eye-catching presentation – the Chessmen cookies make it gorgeous

✅ Family favorite – kids and adults both love it

✅ Make-ahead friendly – tastes even better the next day!

💡 Tips for the Perfect Banana Pudding

  • Use firm but ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
  • If you can’t find Chessmen cookies, Nilla wafers work beautifully too.
  • Want a chocolate twist? Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup between layers!
  • Sprinkle crushed cookies or toasted coconut on top for a decorative finish.

🍴 Serving Ideas

This pudding is perfect for:

  • Family gatherings
  • Potlucks and BBQs
  • Sunday dinners
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Or just a sweet treat on a cozy night in!

Serve chilled, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds — or the recipe!

💬 What People Say

This dessert has become famous for a reason. People rave about its smooth texture and perfect sweetness. It’s the type of dish that disappears the moment you put it on the table. One bite and you’ll understand why Paula Deen’s Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding has earned legendary status in the world of desserts!

❤️ Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something creamy, dreamy, and unforgettable, this recipe is it. It’s elegant enough for parties but simple enough for any day of the week. The combination of bananas, cream cheese, and Chessmen cookies creates a flavor harmony that’s pure perfection.

So, grab your ingredients and whip up this iconic Southern dessert. Just one taste, and you’ll be saying — this really isn’t my mama’s banana pudding… it’s BETTER! 🍌💛

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