Caramel Banana Pudding Cups

These Caramel Banana Pudding Cups are a delightful combination of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, and rich caramel sauce, all layered with crispy vanilla wafers. Perfect for a quick dessert or a special treat, these cups offer a delicious blend of textures and flavors in every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 20 vanilla wafers, crushed
• Additional caramel sauce for drizzling

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
2. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined, then fold in the whipped cream or Cool Whip.
3. In individual serving cups or jars, layer a spoonful of crushed vanilla wafers at the bottom.
4. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the crushed wafers.
5. Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas, followed by a drizzle of caramel sauce.
6. Repeat the layering process (crushed wafers, bananas, pudding mixture, caramel) until the cups are filled, ending with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups

Variations

• Banana Substitute: Use other fruits such as strawberries or peaches for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Replace vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookies or crumbs.
• Nutty Twist: Add a layer of chopped nuts or toffee bits for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the pudding cups in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dessert as the texture may be affected.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding mix?

• Yes, you can use homemade vanilla pudding, but it may affect the texture slightly.

1. Can I make this dessert a day in advance?

• Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and can be a convenient option for parties.

1. What can I use instead of whipped cream or Cool Whip?

• You can use homemade whipped cream or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

1. How do I keep the bananas from browning?

• The bananas should be layered with the pudding mixture promptly to prevent browning. The pudding mixture helps to preserve the bananas.

1. Can I use a different type of milk?

• Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk alternative in place of regular milk.

1. How long should I chill the pudding cups?

• Chill for at least 1 hour, but longer chilling will enhance the flavor and texture.

1. Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

• Yes, you can use chocolate or butterscotch pudding mix for a different twist on this recipe.

1. Can I prepare this dessert in a large trifle dish instead of individual cups?

• Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a large trifle dish for serving a crowd.

1. Can I use sugar-free pudding mix?

• Yes, you can use sugar-free pudding mix to reduce the overall sugar content.

1. What is the best way to drizzle the caramel sauce?
   • Use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle the caramel sauce for an even and decorative finish.

Conclusion

Caramel Banana Pudding Cups are a decadent and delightful dessert, combining creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and luscious caramel in every bite. Ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings, these pudding cups are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in each layered spoonful!

Print