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#### **For the Topping:**
1. **Whipped Cream**: This is used to top the cake and adds a light, fluffy contrast to the dense pudding and cake layers.
2. **Bananas**: Fresh banana slices are used as a garnish on top of the whipped cream, making the dessert visually appealing while also adding more of that signature banana flavor.
3. **Crushed Nilla Wafers**: A sprinkle of crushed Nilla wafers on top gives the cake that authentic banana pudding look and adds an extra crunch to each bite.
### **How to Make Banana Pudding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide**
Making Banana Pudding Cake is a straightforward process, but each step is essential for creating the right texture and flavor. Follow these steps for a perfectly moist cake layered with creamy banana pudding.
#### **Ingredients for the Banana Pudding Cake:**
**For the Cake:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ¼ tsp salt
**For the Banana Pudding Layer:**
– 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 box Nilla wafers
**For the Topping:**
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Extra banana slices and Nilla wafers for garnish
#### **Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter**
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or use a springform pan for easy removal after baking. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Stir in the vanilla extract.
**Step 2: Bake the Cake**
Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
**Step 3: Prepare the Banana Pudding**
While the cake is cooling, make the banana pudding. In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix with the milk and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until the pudding thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. Once the pudding is ready, fold in the sliced bananas.
**Step 4: Assemble the Banana Pudding Cake**
Once the cake has completely cooled, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers. Place one layer of the cake in a serving dish. Spread half of the banana pudding mixture over the cake layer. Place a layer of Nilla wafers over the pudding, pressing them lightly into the pudding so they absorb some of the liquid. Top with the second layer of cake, and repeat with the remaining pudding and Nilla wafers.
**Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream Topping**
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top layer of the cake, covering it evenly. Garnish with additional banana slices and crushed Nilla wafers for decoration.
**Step 6: Chill and Serve**
Refrigerate the assembled Banana Pudding Cake for at least 3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to soak up the pudding. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, comforting layers of banana, pudding, and cake.
### **Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding Cake**
1. **Use Ripe Bananas**: Ripe bananas bring out the sweetness in the pudding and make the flavor even more pronounced. However, they shouldn’t be overripe or mushy.
2. **Don’t Overmix the Cake Batter**: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined for a lighter, fluffier cake.
3. **Let the Cake Cool Completely**: Allowing the cake to cool completely before assembling the dessert prevents the pudding from melting into the cake too much.
4. **
Make It Ahead of Time**: Banana Pudding Cake tastes even better after it has had time to chill in the refrigerator for several hours. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and develop.
5. **Personalize the Recipe**: Feel free to add extra layers of flavor by incorporating chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
### **Conclusion**
Banana Pudding Cake is an irresistible dessert that brings together the best parts of banana pudding and cake into one indulgent dish. The layers of moist cake, creamy banana pudding, and crunchy Nilla wafers come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, family dinner, or just because, this dessert is sure to please. Simple to make but full of flavor, it’s the perfect way to end any meal with a sweet, nostalgic touch. Enjoy every slice of this classic comfort dessert!
