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No-Bake Banana Cream Dessert With Graham Cracker Crust – Easy, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • For the filling and layers: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups cold milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub whipped topping)
  • 3–4 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice for tossing bananas
  • Optional garnish: crushed graham crackers, shaved chocolate, or toasted coconut

Method
 

  1. Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9x9-inch pan or a 9-inch springform. Use the bottom of a glass to pack it tight. Chill while you prepare the filling.
  2. Beat the cream cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Set aside.
  3. Whip the cream: In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream to medium peaks. If using whipped topping, skip this step.
  4. Make the pudding: In another bowl, whisk cold milk with instant vanilla pudding mix for 2 minutes until thickened. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to fully set.
  5. Combine the creamy layers: Fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Then fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding until smooth. Reserve the remaining whipped cream for topping.
  6. Layer the bananas: Slice bananas just before layering. If you want to slow browning, toss slices with a tiny splash of lemon juice. Pat dry.
  7. Assemble: Arrange a single layer of banana slices over the chilled crust. Spread the cream filling over the bananas in an even layer. Top with the remaining whipped cream.
  8. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
  9. Finish and serve: Garnish with more banana slices (add these right before serving), crushed grahams, or shaved chocolate. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean edges.