Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe
Introduction
Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding is a creamy, crowd-pleasing dessert that layers bananas, cookies, and rich pudding for a delightful treat. With a smooth texture and sweet flavor, it’s perfect for family gatherings or anytime you crave something comforting and delicious.

Ingredients
- 12 oz (339g) container Cool Whip (thawed)
- 14 oz (396g) can sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz (226g) package cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups (473ml) milk
- 5 oz box instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 6 to 8 bananas (sliced)
- 2 bags Chessmen cookies
Instructions
- Step 1: Cover the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan with 1 bag of Chessmen cookies.
- Step 2: Layer sliced bananas over the cookies. Use about 6 to 8 bananas depending on their size.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Step 4: Add the instant French vanilla pudding mix and milk to the bowl. Beat until fully combined, then let the pudding rest for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Step 5: Fold in the thawed Cool Whip. If using smaller containers, combine 1 and 1/2 of the 8 oz containers to get 12 oz. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 6: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer in the pan.
- Step 7: Top the pudding with the remaining bag of Chessmen cookies.
- Step 8: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers.
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy layers.
- Try substituting vanilla or chocolate pudding mix for a different flavor twist.
- If Chessmen cookies aren’t available, vanilla wafers are a great alternative.
Storage
Store the banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, consume within this time as the cookies will continue to soften. If refrigerated longer, the pudding may become too soft. Reheating is not recommended; serve chilled.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this banana pudding ahead of time?
Yes, this pudding tastes great when made a few hours ahead or the day before. Just be sure to refrigerate it and cover it well to keep it fresh.
What can I use if I don’t have an electric mixer?
You can whisk the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk vigorously by hand, but it will take a bit more effort to get a smooth consistency. A sturdy whisk or fork works in a pinch.
PrintNot Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding Recipe
Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that features layers of chessmen cookies, fresh bananas, and a luscious pudding mixture made from cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and instant vanilla pudding. Topped with fluffy cool whip and chilled to perfection, this no-bake treat is easy to assemble and perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Base
- 2 bags Chessmen cookies (divided)
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
Pudding Mixture
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 14 oz (396g) sweetened condensed milk
- 5 oz box instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups (473ml) milk
- 12 oz (339g) Cool Whip, thawed (or 1 1/2 of 8 oz containers)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Cover the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan with one bag of Chessmen cookies, arranging them evenly to form a base layer.
- Add Banana Layer: Slice 6 to 8 bananas depending on size and layer them evenly over the cookies in the pan.
- Mix Pudding Base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the instant French vanilla pudding mix and milk, then continue beating until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to allow it to thicken.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding mixture until fully integrated and smooth.
- Assemble Pudding: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer in the pan.
- Top with Cookies: Cover the pudding layer with the remaining bag of Chessmen cookies.
- Chill: Cover the entire pan with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 12 hours, to allow flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly before serving.
Notes
- Using softened cream cheese ensures a smooth pudding base without lumps.
- Letting the pudding mixture rest for 5 minutes helps it thicken to the perfect consistency.
- If you cannot find a 12 oz container of Cool Whip, use 1 and a half 8 oz containers as a substitute.
- The dessert can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- For firmer cookies on top, add them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- This recipe requires refrigeration but no cooking or baking, making it quick and easy.
Keywords: banana pudding, no bake dessert, creamy pudding, chessmen cookies, instant pudding dessert, easy banana dessert

