Bookmark
This decadent Biscoff Banana Pudding with Caramel is a luscious twist on the classic dessert that combines creamy pudding, ripe bananas, crunchy Biscoff cookies, and a rich caramel drizzle. It offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that make it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Whether you are serving it to family or impressing guests, this pudding is a comforting and indulgent delight that everyone will love.
I first made this dessert for a casual family dinner, and it quickly became a much-anticipated favorite. The combination of creamy pudding and crisp cookies never fails to bring smiles all around the table.
Ingredients
- One cup heavy whipping cream: contributes a light and velvety texture to the pudding
- One fourth cup powdered sugar: sweetens without overpowering the delicate flavors
- One 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk: adds natural sweetness and luxurious creaminess
- One 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese: provides creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness
- One cup caramel sauce: for a rich, sweet finish that ties the flavors together
- One cup whole milk: forms the base, delivering creaminess and body
- One 3.4-ounce package of instant vanilla pudding mix: thickens the pudding and adds classic vanilla flavor
- Biscoff cookies, crushed: these introduce warm spice notes and a crispy texture layer
- Ripe bananas, sliced: bring natural sweetness and soft texture that complements the pudding. When choosing bananas, opt for ones just turning yellow with a few brown spots for optimum sweetness. For caramel sauce, homemade or high-quality store-bought works best to retain that buttery richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together until the texture is smooth and creamy. This helps create the base richness and ensures no lumps remain.
- Combine the Pudding Ingredients:
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk to the cream cheese mixture. Stir them gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined. This step thickens the pudding and infuses the classic vanilla flavor.
- Whip the Heavy Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream along with powdered sugar until it holds stiff peaks. This step creates a light and airy component to balance the cream cheese base.
- Fold the Whipped Cream:
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Be gentle to keep the air incorporated for a fluffy and smooth consistency throughout.
- Build the Layers:
- In a serving dish or individual cups, layer crushed Biscoff cookies at the bottom, followed by pudding mixture, then banana slices. Repeat the layering until you use up all ingredients, finishing with a final pudding layer on top.
- Drizzle with Caramel:
- Generously pour the caramel sauce over the top pudding layer. You may also garnish with whole Biscoff cookies or banana slices for an elegant finish.
Bookmark
The Biscoff cookies are my favorite part because they add that perfect subtle spice and crunch that contrasts the soft pudding and bananas. I still remember making this for a holiday party and watching everyone reach for seconds with big grins.
Storage Tips
Keep the pudding covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you plan to store it for more than a day, consider adding banana slices just before serving to avoid discoloration.
Ingredient Substitutions
For dairy-free options, swap whole milk with almond or coconut milk and use coconut cream whipped as a substitute for heavy cream. You can also replace cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese to suit dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with a cup of robust coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness. Pair with fresh fruit or a light salad if serving as part of a larger meal.
Cultural Context
Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert in the United States, traditionally made with vanilla wafers. This version uses beloved European Biscoff cookies which add a unique caramelized spice profile, blending cultural flavors beautifully.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to marry beautifully, enhancing texture and taste.
- → What can replace Biscoff cookies if unavailable?
Any spiced or caramel-flavored cookie works well, adding a similar crunch and warmth to the layers.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness?
Reducing granulated sugar in the pudding or lightening the caramel drizzle helps achieve a less sweet balance.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk and use plant-based whipping cream for a dairy-free variation.
- → How do I avoid lumps in the pudding?
Whisk cornstarch thoroughly into the milk and sugar mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep chilled in an airtight container for up to 3 days, though banana slices may darken slightly over time.