Get ready to transport your taste buds to dessert heaven with this irresistible Copycat Golden Corral Banana Pudding! If you've ever craved that creamy, dreamy dessert that makes your mouth water just thinking about it, you're in for a treat. This recipe is so deliciously close to the original, you'll swear you're sitting in the restaurant – but the best part? You can now enjoy this classic comfort dessert right in your own kitchen. Prepare to wow your family and friends with a dessert that's sure to become an instant crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. Use an electric mixer for best results, blending for approximately 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Allow the pudding mixture to sit and set for 5 minutes at room temperature, which will help it achieve the right consistency for layering.
- Select a large clear glass serving dish or trifle bowl to showcase the beautiful layers of the dessert.
- Begin creating layers by first placing a thin layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of the dish, creating a crunchy base.
- Slice ripe bananas into thin, even rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick, ensuring uniform coverage across the layers.
- Carefully spread a layer of the prepared vanilla pudding over the wafers and bananas, making sure to cover them completely.
- Repeat the layering process: wafers, banana slices, and pudding, continuing until you've used all ingredients, typically creating 2-3 complete layers.
- Top the final layer with fresh whipped cream, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Crush a few additional vanilla wafers and sprinkle them on top for added texture and visual appeal.
- Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set completely.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the classic, creamy dessert reminiscent of Golden Corral's famous banana pudding.
Tips
- Choose perfectly ripe bananas: Look for bananas that are yellow with just a few brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Chill your ingredients: Make sure your milk is cold when mixing the pudding for the smoothest consistency.
- Use an electric mixer: This ensures no lumps remain in your pudding mixture and creates a silky-smooth texture.
- Layer carefully: Take your time when creating layers to ensure even distribution of wafers, bananas, and pudding.
- Refrigeration is key: Allow at least 2 hours of chilling time to let the flavors meld and the pudding set properly.
- For extra indulgence, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought for a more authentic flavor.
- If you want to prepare ahead, this dessert can be made a day in advance, which actually helps the flavors develop even more!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 399kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 22mg
