When I want a dessert that’s creamy, chocolatey, and layered with fresh banana flavor, I make this Choco-Banana Dream Layers treat. It’s a no-bake wonder that combines chocolate pudding, banana slices, whipped topping, and a soft cookie or graham base for a cool, comforting dessert that always hits the sweet spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dessert because it feels indulgent without being too heavy, and the layers come together with ease. The combination of rich chocolate, fresh banana, and soft, creamy filling is a classic for a reason. It’s perfect for gatherings, summer evenings, or when I want something sweet that doesn’t require turning on the oven. Every bite is a dreamy mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Graham crackers or vanilla wafers (for the base)
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Instant chocolate pudding mix
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Cold milk
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Cream cheese (softened)
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Powdered sugar
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Whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
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Ripe bananas (sliced)
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Chocolate shavings or drizzle (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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I prepare the chocolate pudding by whisking the pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. I set it aside.
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In a separate bowl, I beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then fold in half of the whipped topping.
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In a 9×13-inch dish, I layer the bottom with graham crackers or vanilla wafers to form the base.
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I spread the cream cheese layer over the base, smoothing it out evenly.
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I arrange a layer of sliced bananas on top of the cream cheese mixture.
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I spread the chocolate pudding over the banana layer.
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I finish by spreading the remaining whipped topping across the top.
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I chill the dessert for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the layers set and the flavors blend.
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Just before serving, I garnish with banana slices, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if I’m feeling fancy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12–15 servings.
Prep time is 20 minutes, and chilling time is at least 4 hours. I usually prepare it the night before for best results.
Variations
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I switch chocolate pudding for banana or vanilla pudding for a lighter twist.
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I’ve layered it with peanut butter drizzle or Nutella between the bananas and pudding.
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For added crunch, I sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed cookies on top before serving.
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I use gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dessert is best eaten cold, so no reheating is necessary. I don’t freeze it—the bananas change texture and the layers can become watery once thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this with homemade pudding?
Yes, I’ve used stovetop chocolate pudding—it just needs to cool fully before layering.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
I slice them just before layering and cover them well with pudding to limit air exposure.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely—it tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
I’ve swapped it with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced by the cream cheese layer. I reduce the sugar slightly if I want it lighter.
Conclusion
Choco-Banana Dream Layers is one of those no-bake desserts I keep on repeat. It’s creamy, rich, and perfectly layered with flavor and texture. Whether I’m making it for a party, a potluck, or just to keep something sweet in the fridge, it always delivers that dreamy, satisfying bite.
Print
Choco-Banana Dream Layers: A Luscious No-Bake Dessert You’ll Crave Again and Again
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 servings
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake
- Method: No-Bake, Layered
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Choco-Banana Dream Layers is a luscious no-bake dessert with layers of chocolate pudding, whipped topping, ripe bananas, and a graham cracker or cookie crust. It’s creamy, easy to assemble, and perfect for parties, potlucks, or warm-weather treats.
Ingredients
- Base Layer:
- 1½ sleeves graham crackers or 2 cups vanilla wafers (enough to cover the bottom of a 9x13 dish)
- Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1½ cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
- Banana Layer:
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- Chocolate Layer:
- 1 (5.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- Topping:
- 1½ cups whipped topping (or remaining whipped cream)
- Optional: chocolate shavings, chocolate drizzle, additional banana slices for garnish
Instructions
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Make the Chocolate Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Set aside to chill.
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Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in 1½ cups whipped topping.
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Assemble the Base: Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan with graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
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Layer the Cream Cheese: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
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Add Bananas: Arrange banana slices over the cream cheese layer in an even layer.
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Spread Chocolate Pudding: Pour and spread the pudding over the banana layer.
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Top with Whipped Cream: Smooth the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
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Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
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Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top with banana slices, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce if desired.
Notes
- Best made the night before to allow the flavors to meld.
- For a lighter twist, substitute chocolate pudding with banana or vanilla pudding.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies.
- Add peanut butter drizzle or Nutella between the banana and pudding layers for a fun twist.
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