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- 2 ripe bananas, sliced - 1 cup heavy whipping cream - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix - 1 1/2 cups milk - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional) - Fresh mint leaves Gathering the right ingredients makes a big difference. I love using ripe bananas. They add the best flavor. The heavy whipping cream gives the parfait its dreamy texture. Powdered sugar sweetens the deal. A touch of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. For pantry staples, I always keep vanilla pudding mix on hand. It helps create a creamy base. Milk adds the right consistency and richness. Graham cracker crumbs give a crunchy layer. You can also use coconut flakes for extra flair, but it’s not a must. If you want to dress up your parfaits, fresh mint leaves are a lovely touch. They add color and a fresh taste. Each layer works together to create a delightful dessert treat. - In a medium bowl, mix the vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. - Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken. This gives it a nice, creamy texture. - In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. - Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Keep beating until stiff peaks form. This cream will add a fluffy touch to your parfaits. - Start by placing a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of your serving glasses. - Then, add a layer of the fluffy banana cream mixture over the crumbs. - Next, pile on some sliced bananas. - Repeat these layers until the glasses are full, ending with the fluffy cream on top. - For a fun finish, sprinkle coconut flakes over the top if you like. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. To know when your whipped cream is ready, watch for soft peaks first. When you lift the beaters, the cream should hold its shape but still have a soft curve. Avoid overbeating by stopping as soon as you see stiff peaks form. Overbeaten cream turns grainy, losing its nice texture. For even layers, use the same amount of filling and bananas each time. This keeps layers neat and pretty. I recommend clear glasses so you can see all those beautiful layers. Mason jars or parfait cups work well too. You can add chocolate by mixing cocoa powder into the cream. Chopped nuts also add a nice crunch. Don’t be afraid to try other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a fresh twist. Mix it up and find your favorite! {{image_2}} You can make chocolate banana cream parfaits by adding cocoa powder. Mix two tablespoons of cocoa powder into the vanilla pudding mix. This will give your parfaits a rich chocolate flavor. You can also top them with chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for extra fun. If you need a gluten-free dessert, switch to gluten-free graham crackers. You can find these at most grocery stores. Crush them just like regular graham crackers. This way, you can still enjoy that crunchy layer without the gluten. For a vegan twist, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Whip it just like you would regular cream. Use almond or oat milk for the pudding mix. There are many plant-based vanilla pudding mixes available too. These swaps keep the dessert creamy and delicious without dairy. To keep your parfaits fresh, store them in the refrigerator. Place them in airtight containers or cover with plastic wrap. This will help prevent them from absorbing other odors. Parfaits taste best when eaten within three days of making. After that, the bananas may turn brown and the layers can lose their texture. You can freeze parfaits, but it might change the texture. If you decide to freeze, do not freeze the assembled parfaits. Instead, freeze each layer separately. You can freeze the banana cream mixture and graham cracker crumbs in zip-top bags. When you want to enjoy a parfait, just thaw the layers in the fridge overnight. Since parfaits are best cold, you don’t need to reheat them. If you freeze the layers, thaw them slowly in the fridge. This helps maintain their taste and texture. Avoid microwaving the layers, as this can make them mushy and less enjoyable. Yes, you can use many fruits in this parfait! - Strawberries are a great choice. - Peaches add a nice sweetness. - Berries bring a tart flavor. - You can even try mangoes for a tropical twist. These fruits will mix well with the fluffy cream. The pudding needs about 5 minutes to set. - This time is key for a creamy texture. - Letting it rest helps it thicken properly. - If you skip this step, the parfait may be runny. Patience pays off with a perfect dessert! Yes, you can make these parfaits in advance! - Prepare the layers separately for best results. - Store the pudding and whipped cream in the fridge. - Assemble them right before serving. This keeps the layers fresh and tasty. Making them ahead saves you time on dessert day! In this post, we explored making delicious banana parfaits. You learned about the fresh and pantry ingredients, plus optional garnishes. The step-by-step guide showed how to prepare pudding and whipped cream, layer your parfait, and add tasty toppings. Remember to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Enjoy experimenting with variations and don’t be afraid to try new fruits. With these tips, your banana parfaits will impress everyone!

Fluffy Banana Cream Pie Parfaits

Indulge in the delightful taste of fluffy banana cream pie parfaits that are as easy to make as they are delicious! This simple recipe combines ripe bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped cream for a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion. Layered with graham cracker crumbs and optional coconut, these parfaits are sure to impress. Click through to discover the full recipe and treat your taste buds today!
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Ingredients
  

2 ripe bananas, sliced

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix

1 1/2 cups milk

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)

Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.

    In a separate mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

      Carefully fold the whipped cream into the prepared vanilla pudding mixture until well combined to create a light and fluffy filling.

        To assemble the parfaits, start by placing a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of serving glasses.

          Next, add a layer of the fluffy banana cream mixture over the crumbs, followed by a layer of sliced bananas.

            Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, ending with the fluffy cream on top.

              For a finishing touch, sprinkle coconut flakes over the top (if using) and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4