Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your dessert game forever! This Seven Layer Banana Dessert is not just a recipe—it's a creamy, dreamy experience that will have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the secret. Imagine layers of buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese, fresh bananas, and velvety vanilla pudding, all topped with a cloud of whipped cream and decadent chocolate shavings. This isn't just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavor and texture that will make you the star of any gathering!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz)
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the graham cracker crust by combining crushed graham crackers with melted butter in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely coated with butter.
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish, creating an even, compact layer. Use the back of a spoon or measuring cup to firmly pack the crust.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and light in texture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, creating a smooth layer.
- In another bowl, prepare the instant vanilla pudding mix by whisking it with cold milk for 2 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- Allow the pudding to set for 5 minutes until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Arrange the sliced bananas in a single layer over the cream cheese mixture, covering the entire surface.
- Pour the prepared vanilla pudding over the banana layer, spreading it evenly to cover all the bananas.
- Top the pudding layer with additional whipped topping, creating a smooth surface.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top of the dessert for added crunch and flavor.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings for an elegant finishing touch.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-3 hours or overnight to allow layers to set and flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, let the dessert sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly. Cut into 12 equal squares and serve chilled.
Tips
- • Use ripe bananas for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing • Chill the dessert for at least 2-3 hours to allow layers to set perfectly • For a professional look, use a offset spatula to create smooth, even layers • Make this dessert a day ahead to save time and enhance flavor melding • For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts • Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 47mg
