Kiss the Cook: A banana creme that meets mom’s approval

Recently, a friend of mine asked me if I had a good recipe for banana crème pudding.
After a little bit of work, taking a recipe I had and modifying it slightly, I came up with the recipe below. I thought it was delicious, but it wouldn’t be good enough until I had others taste it and give their approval.
My two taste testers, my sons Ryan and Landon, both loved the new recipe. After my sons approved, I wanted to see what my parents thought. My mom, of course, is a great cook who taught me a few things along the way. Her approval was a must. Mom and Dad gave it a try and it was two thumbs up! Give it a try and enjoy.

Banana Crème Pudding
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Ready in: 3 ½ hrs
Servings: 12

Ingredients:
8 oz. package of cream cheese (at room temperature)
14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk
3.4 oz. package of banana crème pudding
3.4 oz. package of French vanilla pudding
3 cups cold milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz. container of frozen extra creamy whipping topping (thawed)
4 bananas-sliced
½ package (12 oz.) vanilla wafers
2 tbs lemon juice

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese until fluffy. Continue to beat in the condensed milk, 2 pudding mixes, cold milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Using a spatula, fold in half the container of whipped topping.
2. Add 2 tbs of lemon juice to your sliced bananas immediately after cutting to help keep them from browning.
3. Line the bottom of 9” x 13” or similar size dish with the vanilla wafers. Layer the banana slices on top and then cover with the pudding mixture, spreading it out evenly and then cover with the remaining whipped topping. You can also use a smaller dish and make the pudding multiple layers instead of just one layer. Just add another layer of wafers, bananas and pudding before topping with the remaining whipped topping. You can also crush some vanilla wafers and sprinkle over the top. Chill for 3 hrs. before serving for best results.
Do you have a great recipe you would like to share? Send it to me for testing and possible publishing. Email comments to bear@ptd.net