Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Nutella Banana Pudding, a dessert that marries the beloved flavors of chocolate-hazelnut and fresh bananas. This layered treat is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful experience for the taste buds. With its silky pudding base, crunchy Oreo layers, and luscious whipped topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy yet decadent recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Nutella Banana Pudding has quickly become a favorite among dessert lovers for several reasons. First, the combination of creamy Nutella and fresh bananas creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. The layers of Oreo cookies add a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the softness of the pudding and bananas. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort while still delivering maximum flavor. Cooks rave about its versatility, as it can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dessert has taken kitchens by storm!

What You’ll Gather

To make your delicious Nutella Banana Pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 (3.4-ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Nutella
32 Oreo cookies
5 ripe bananas, sliced
4 to 5 cups Cool Whip
chopped roasted hazelnuts (for garnish)

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the preparation, gather the following equipment:

Mixing bowls: For blending the pudding and cream.
Whisk or electric mixer: To achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Spatula: For folding ingredients together without deflating the whipped cream.
9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal for layering your pudding and cookies.
Knife: To slice the bananas.

Cook Nutella Banana Pudding Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate Nutella

Add the Nutella to the pudding mixture. Using a spatula or whisk, blend until the Nutella is fully incorporated and the pudding is a rich, chocolatey color.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella pudding mixture until well combined. This will give your pudding a light and airy texture.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

In your prepared baking dish, start layering the dessert. Begin with a layer of crushed Oreo cookies at the bottom. Next, add a layer of the Nutella pudding mixture, followed by a layer of sliced bananas. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.

Step 5: Finish with Cool Whip

Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top layer of pudding. This will create a fluffy, creamy finish that complements the richness of the Nutella.

Step 6: Chill and Garnish

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped roasted hazelnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Customize for Your Needs

This Nutella Banana Pudding can be easily customized to suit your preferences:

Flavor variations: Try adding peanut butter to the pudding for a Nutella-Butter combo.
Fruit swaps: Substitute bananas with strawberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist.
Cookie alternatives: Use chocolate chip cookies or graham crackers instead of Oreos for a unique texture.
Garnishes: Top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Preparing Nutella Banana Pudding is straightforward, but here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Pudding not thickening: Ensure you’re using instant pudding mix and whisking thoroughly with the correct amount of milk.
Bananas browning: To prevent this, slice the bananas just before layering or toss them in a little lemon juice.
Too runny: If your pudding is too runny, try adding a bit more whipped cream or allow it to chill longer.
Oreo cookies becoming soggy: Layer them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the Nutella Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness. However, keep in mind that the layers may start to meld over time, and the cookies might lose some of their crunch.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What can I do if my pudding is too thick?

If your pudding seems too thick, you can whisk in a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Just add a tablespoon at a time until smooth.

Can I make this dessert a day in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it’s covered well in the refrigerator.

What if I can’t find Nutella?

If Nutella is unavailable, you can use any chocolate-hazelnut spread or even a homemade version made from ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and sweetener.

How do I prevent my Cool Whip from deflating?

When folding the Cool Whip into the pudding, use gentle, sweeping motions. Avoid vigorous mixing, which can deflate the whipped cream.

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Final Thoughts

Nutella Banana Pudding is the perfect dessert for those who appreciate luscious flavors and delightful textures. With its layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy Oreos, this treat is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Not only is it easy to make, but it also allows for endless customization to suit your taste. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor every spoonful of this delectable dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or indulging yourself, Nutella Banana Pudding is a surefire hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds!