What can I use instead of Nilla Wafers in banana pudding?

You can easily substitute Nilla Wafers with graham crackers, shortbread cookies, vanilla sandwich cookies, or Chessman cookies . These alternatives offer a sturdier texture and richer flavor. Many home cooks now prefer banana pudding with Chessman cookies for its buttery, elevated twist.

What keeps bananas from turning brown in banana pudding?

To prevent browning, lightly coat banana slices with lemon or pineapple juice. This slows oxidation without altering taste. You can also layer bananas deeper inside the pudding, where they’re shielded from air. For best results, use fresh, ripe—but firm—bananas.

What is a substitute for Pepperidge Farm Chessman cookies?

If you can’t find Chessman cookies, try using Walker’s shortbread, butter cookies, or graham crackers. Look for cookies with a firm texture that won't fall apart when layered with pudding. The goal is to mimic the crisp, buttery bite of the original.

Are Chessman cookies shortbread?

Yes, Chessman cookies are a type of shortbread cookie. They’re made with butter, flour, and sugar, with no leavening agents—giving them that classic, dense crumb. This makes them ideal for layered desserts like banana pudding with Chessman cookies .

How do you replace Nilla Wafers?

Replace Nilla Wafers with any dry, crispy cookie that holds its shape in pudding. Shortbread cookies, graham crackers, and even vanilla Oreos can all work. Just be mindful of added fillings if you're aiming for a classic pudding flavor.

How to make banana pudding with graham crackers?

Start by layering graham crackers at the base of your dish, followed by banana slices and pudding. Repeat layers until filled. Chill for at least 4 hours to let the crackers soften. The result is a smooth, slightly crunchy twist on the traditional banana pudding with Chessman cookies .

Banana Pudding with Chessman Cookies – Top 7 Reasons It’s the Best No-Bake Dessert

Name: Banana Pudding with Chessman Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (7.25 oz) packages Pepperidge Farm Chessman cookies; 6 ripe bananas, sliced into ¼-inch rounds; 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix; 3 cups cold milk; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip); Optional: lemon juice (to prevent banana browning); Optional: caramel drizzle or crushed pecans for topping

Description

This banana pudding with Chessman cookies is a rich, creamy, no-bake Southern classic made with layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and buttery shortbread cookies.

Ingredients

Scale

2 (7.25 oz) packages Pepperidge Farm Chessman cookies
6 ripe bananas, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip)
Optional: lemon juice (to prevent banana browning)
Optional: caramel drizzle or crushed pecans for topping

Instructions

Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish with one package of Chessman cookies.
Layer banana slices evenly over the cookies.
In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix and cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Fold in sweetened condensed milk until combined.
Gently fold in whipped topping until fully blended and creamy.
Pour half the pudding mixture over the bananas and smooth out.
Repeat the layering: add more cookies, more bananas, and the rest of the pudding.
Spread a final layer of whipped topping over the top.
Garnish with remaining Chessman cookies and optional toppings.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

For firmer bananas, add lemon juice lightly to slices to slow browning.
Can be made a day ahead for better flavor absorption.
Don’t freeze—texture will suffer.
Add chocolate chips, caramel sauce, or toasted pecans for flavor variations.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Keywords: banana pudding with Chessman cookies, no-bake banana pudding, layered banana pudding, Southern banana dessert, banana pudding recipe with shortbread