Welcome, dessert lovers! Today, we’re diving into a Southern classic: the Southern Chessmen Cookie Banana Pudding recipe. If you’re a fan of banana pudding and want to elevate the traditional flavors, this recipe is just for you! Using the beloved Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies and fresh bananas, this dessert delivers a rich, creamy, and buttery experience. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or a potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
Scale
2 packages Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Butter Cookies
1– 5.1 ounce Vanilla Jell-O Instant Pudding
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1– 8 ounce package cream cheese
1– 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1– 8 ounce container whipped topping
3–4 large bananas (slice these into even layers)
Substitutions:
For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese and whipped topping with coconut-based alternatives.
Gluten-free cookies can replace Chessmen cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Base
Start by placing a layer of Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Butter Cookies at the bottom of a 13×9 baking dish. These buttery cookies will form the crunchy base of your pudding.
Step 2: Mix the Pudding
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup milk, 1 cup heavy cream, and Vanilla Jell-O Instant Pudding. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients for around 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens. Set this aside.
Step 3: Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy. This creates a rich layer that adds depth to your pudding.
Step 4: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to keep the mixture fluffy.
Step 5: Combine Pudding and Cream Cheese Mixture
Blend the pudding mixture with the cream cheese mixture, creating a luscious, combined filling.
Step 6: Layer Bananas
Slice your bananas and place them over the first layer of Chessmen cookies in the baking dish. If you love bananas, feel free to add a second layer!
Step 7: Spread the Pudding Mixture
Spread the pudding mixture evenly on top of the bananas, smoothing it out into an even layer.
Step 8: Final Layer of Cookies
Place the remaining Chessmen cookies over the top of the pudding. This final layer adds a delightful crunch.
Step 9: Chill and Set
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe bananas for the best flavor. Overripe bananas might make the pudding too soft.
If you prefer a thicker banana layer, feel free to add more slices.
Chill overnight for the best results; the cookies will soften slightly, creating a perfect balance of textures.
