Banana Pudding Or Cherry
A creamy and versatile dessert featuring layers of pudding, fruit, and whipped topping, perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or summer picnics with fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cold milk and vanilla instant pudding mix in a bowl and mix well.
- Add the Cool Whip and sour cream to the pudding mixture and blend until smooth.
- Layer cookies in the bottom of a large container.
- Add sliced bananas or tart cherries over the cookies.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the layered fruit and cookies.
- Repeat the layers as desired to fill the container.
- Optional: Add a little crushed drained pineapple to the banana pudding for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of cold milk. If you don't have vanilla instant pudding, a similar flavor can be achieved with butterscotch or chocolate pudding. For added texture, layer crushed vanilla wafers in between layers of fruit and pudding. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist in the banana pudding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the banana pudding or cherry dessert chilled, garnished with extra whipped topping and a sprinkle of crushed cookies on top for added crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing fruit salad or a slice of Deer Camp Pie for a delightful contrast. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, cover the top with plastic wrap directly touching the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. It’s best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Pudding Or Cherry contains roughly 755 calories, with 19g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 951mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used instead of canned tart cherries. Just make sure to pit and slice them before layering in the dessert. They will provide a fresher taste and a lovely pop of color in your dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this banana pudding or cherry dessert gluten-free, simply use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers as the base layer instead of traditional cookies. Always check the labels to ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, this dessert can be prepared a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh and prevent any drying out. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).