Paula Deans Not Your Mamas Banana Pudding

If you're a fan of classic Southern desserts, you've probably heard of banana pudding. This creamy, sweet dish is a staple at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings all across the South. But have you ever tried Paula Deen's Not Your Mama's Banana Pudding? This recipe puts a delicious twist on the classic dessert, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

The History of Banana Pudding

Before we dive into the recipe for Paula Deen's Not Your Mama's Banana Pudding, let's take a brief look at the history of this classic Southern dessert. Banana pudding has been around for over 100 years, and it's believed to have originated in the South during the late 19th century. Originally, the dish was made with vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and a custard or pudding mixture. Over time, variations on the recipe emerged, some including whipped cream or meringue on top, and some using other types of cookies or even cake.

The Recipe for Paula Deen's Not Your Mama's Banana Pudding

Now, let's get down to the good stuff: Paula Deen's Not Your Mama's Banana Pudding recipe. This is a delicious twist on the classic dessert, and it's sure to be a hit at your next potluck or family gathering. Here's what you'll need:- 2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies- 6 to 8 ripe bananas, sliced- 2 cups milk- 1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk- 1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawedTo make the pudding, start by lining the bottom of a 13x9 inch dish with a single layer of the Chessmen cookies. Then, top the cookies with a layer of sliced bananas. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant pudding mix until it's thick and creamy. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until it's smooth, then add in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined. Fold in the whipped topping, then add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until everything is well combined.Pour half of this mixture over the layer of cookies and bananas in the dish, then repeat the process with another layer of cookies and bananas followed by the remaining pudding mixture. Top it all off with a layer of whipped topping, and chill the whole thing in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before serving.

Why Paula Deen's Banana Pudding is Different

A Close-Up Of Paula Deen'S Banana Pudding

So, what sets Paula Deen's Not Your Mama's Banana Pudding apart from the traditional version of this dish? For starters, instead of using vanilla wafers, this recipe calls for Chessmen cookies. These buttery, crispy cookies add a delicious crunch to the dessert. Additionally, the addition of cream cheese to the pudding mixture gives it a tangy, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bananas and whipped topping.

Conclusion

Overall, Paula Deen's Not Your Mama's Banana Pudding is a delicious and unique twist on the classic Southern dessert. Whether you're serving it up at a family gathering, bringing it to a potluck, or just enjoying it at home, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and see for yourself why Paula Deen's recipes are always a hit.