Introduction
Indulging in a delightful dessert can brighten any day, and this Banana Pudding Ice Cream is the perfect treat for banana lovers. Combining the rich creaminess of whipped cream with the sweetness of bananas and a hint of vanilla, this no-churn ice cream delivers a refreshing taste of nostalgia in every scoop. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s a fantastic dessert option for kids and adults alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 of a 3-ounce box of instant banana cream pudding
– 20 vanilla wafers, crushed, plus more for topping
Prep Time
Prep time for this delicious dessert is approximately 20 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is minimal as there is no cooking involved. The total time including freezing is about 6 hours, ideally overnight, yielding around 6-8 servings of creamy banana goodness.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Whip the Cream
In a bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Use an electric mixer for the best results, ensuring you do not overwhip.
Combine the Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and half of the 3-ounce box of instant banana cream pudding. Mix well until smooth and uniform.
Add the Bananas
Mash the ripe bananas and add them to the sweetened condensed milk mixture. Stir until the bananas are fully incorporated into the mixture.
Add the Crushed Wafers
Add the crushed vanilla wafers to the banana mixture and mix thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Fold in the Whipped Cream
Gently fold the banana mixture into the whipped cream. Use a spatula to combine, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Prepare for Freezing
Pour the mixture into a metal loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
Freeze the Mixture
Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the mixture to set properly.
Final Touch Before Serving
Before serving, crush a few more vanilla wafers on top of the frozen mixture to add a crunchy texture.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dessert can be sliced and served like a cake. Pair it with slices of fresh banana or a drizzle of chocolate for added flavor.
Storage Instructions
Keep any leftovers covered in the freezer. It is best consumed within a week for optimal texture and flavor.
Variations
Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. You can substitute other flavors of pudding powder if desired.
Cook techniques
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream is aerated to create a light and fluffy texture. It’s important to ensure that the bowl and beaters are cold for the best results. Whip until soft peaks form, meaning the cream will hold its shape but still have a slight droop at the tips.
Combining Ingredients
When mixing ingredients, it is essential to combine them thoroughly without overmixing. When incorporating delicate ingredients like whipped cream, gently fold to keep the airiness intact.
Freezing Mixture
Pour the combined mixture into a metal loaf pan for freezing. Metal pans conduct heat better than glass, allowing the mixture to freeze evenly and more quickly.
Serving Tips
Before serving, add crushed vanilla wafers on top for added texture and flavor. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a pleasant crunch to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cream instead of heavy whipping cream?
Using other types of cream, such as light whipping cream or regular cream, may result in a less rich and fluffy texture.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The bananas should be ripe but not overly brown; they should be soft enough to mash easily and provide a sweet flavor.
Can I use homemade vanilla pudding instead of instant pudding?
Yes, you can use homemade pudding. However, the texture may differ, and you may need to adjust the amounts to maintain the right consistency.
How long can I keep this dessert in the freezer?
The dessert can typically be kept in the freezer for up to two weeks without losing quality. For best flavor and texture, consume it within a week.
Can I substitute vanilla wafers with another type of cookie?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla wafers with other cookies like graham crackers or shortbread cookies, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Conclusion
The delightful combination of creamy banana and crunchy vanilla wafers in this frozen treat offers a simple yet indulgent dessert that everyone will love. With its easy preparation and no-bake elements, this recipe is perfect for hot days or any occasion that calls for something sweet. Try it out and enjoy the rich flavors!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Banana Cream Dessert
Combine the ingredients of this recipe with chocolate pudding for a rich chocolate-banana twist.
Peanut Butter Banana Delight
Mix in a half cup of creamy peanut butter into the banana mixture for a deliciously nutty flavor.
Fruit Medley Ice Cream
Add chopped strawberries and blueberries to the banana mixture for a colorful and fruity addition.
Coconut Banana Treat
Substitute coconut cream for half of the heavy whipping cream for a tropical flair.
Banana Foster Ice Cream
Stir in caramel sauce and a pinch of cinnamon into the mixture for a decadent banana foster-inspired dessert.
