Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding Recipe

Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding Recipe

This indulgent dessert layers soft pudding, ripe bananas, and fluffy donuts, creating a sweet and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Follow the simple steps below to make this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant French vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 ounce) can condensed milk
  • 16 ounces whipped topping
  • 12 donuts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 5 bananas, sliced (or more as needed)

Directions

1. Prepare the pudding according to the instructions on the package. Set aside to cool.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and condensed milk. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the prepared pudding to the cream cheese mixture, stirring well to combine everything evenly.

4. Layer half of the pudding mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish.

5. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the pudding mixture, followed by half of the donut pieces.

6. Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the bananas and donuts, spreading it evenly to cover everything.

7. Top with whipped topping, then arrange the remaining donut pieces on top for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.

8. Refrigerate the dessert until ready to serve. Its best served chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1/10th of the recipe):

  • Calories: 767
  • Fat: 38g (49% of daily value)
  • Saturated Fat: 22g (112% of daily value)
  • Cholesterol: 53mg (18% of daily value)
  • Sodium: 397mg (17% of daily value)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 97g (35% of daily value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% of daily value)
  • Total Sugars: 70g
  • Protein: 13g (25% of daily value)
  • Vitamin C: 7mg (8% of daily value)
  • Calcium: 313mg (24% of daily value)
  • Iron: 2mg (12% of daily value)
  • Potassium: 592mg (13% of daily value)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding

The Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is a modern twist on a classic Southern dessert. Traditional banana pudding dates back to the early 20th century in the Southern United States, where it was typically made with layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and creamy custard. This version substitutes the vanilla wafers with Krispy Kreme donuts, adding a unique texture and a hint of sugary indulgence that elevates the familiar flavors into a playful, contemporary treat.

Regional Characteristics

Banana pudding is especially popular in the Southern states of America, from Georgia to Louisiana. What sets the Krispy Kreme variant apart is its origin in areas where Krispy Kreme stores are iconic, often in the Southeast. The soft, sweet donuts soak up the custard and pudding layers differently than traditional wafers, creating a moist, almost cake-like consistency that reflects the Southern love for rich, comforting desserts with a hint of innovation.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While traditional banana pudding uses simple vanilla wafers, this version introduces a layer of soft donuts, giving it a distinct flavor and texture. Unlike banana cream pie, which features a baked crust and a firm custard, the Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is entirely refrigerated and layered, resulting in a creamy, chilled dessert. The combination of cream cheese, condensed milk, and whipped topping makes it richer and more decadent than classic banana pudding.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dessert is often served at casual gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners, particularly in summer when fresh bananas are at their peak. It also appears in Southern-inspired restaurants and cafes that aim to merge traditional desserts with contemporary twists. Due to its eye-catching layers and playful use of donuts, it has become a favorite for parties and special occasions where presentation and indulgence matter.

Fun Facts and Trivia

  • The idea of using donuts in banana pudding likely originated from creative home cooks experimenting with store-bought desserts.
  • Krispy Kremes signature glazed donuts add an extra layer of sweetness, making the dessert instantly recognizable and uniquely American.
  • Despite being a modern twist, this pudding retains the nostalgic comfort of traditional Southern desserts, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary.
  • Many enthusiasts recommend letting the dessert sit overnight in the fridge, allowing the donuts to fully absorb the creamy layers for maximum flavor.

FAQ about Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding Recipe

Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding should be kept refrigerated in an airtight container. It is best served within 2-3 days to ensure freshness, as the bananas may start to brown over time.

Yes, you can make Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding ahead of time. It can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even better taste.

While Krispy Kreme donuts are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can substitute them with any other type of plain or glazed donut. Keep in mind that different donuts may affect the overall flavor and texture of the pudding.

If you prefer a more natural option, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

To prevent the bananas from browning, you can toss them in a small amount of lemon juice before adding them to the pudding. This helps slow down the oxidation process and keeps the bananas looking fresh.

Freezing Krispy Kreme Banana Pudding is not recommended. The texture of the pudding and bananas will change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the pudding mixture (without bananas and donuts) and assemble the pudding later for a fresher taste.

Yes, you can substitute bananas with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ from the original recipe.

This recipe yields approximately 10 servings.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by using less condensed milk or opting for a less sweet whipped topping. You can also try a sugar-free pudding mix if you want to reduce the overall sweetness.

Comments

Stephanie Roberts

11/22/2022 01:53:19 PM

It was a new experience for me, so I just had to give it a try.