Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

You can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture won't be quite as rich and creamy. The cheese ball may also be slightly softer, so you might need to add a bit more powdered sugar to help it firm up properly during chilling.

What if I can't find instant banana pudding mix?

Vanilla pudding mix works as a substitute—just add ½ teaspoon of banana extract to get that banana flavor. Alternatively, try another pudding flavor entirely for a different twist! Butterscotch or cheesecake pudding would be delicious alternatives.

How far in advance can I make this?

This cheese ball can be made up to 3 days before serving. Just keep it well-wrapped in the refrigerator until about 15-20 minutes before you want to serve it.

My mixture is too soft to form into a ball. What went wrong?

The most likely cause is that it wasn't chilled long enough. Pop it back in the refrigerator for another 30-60 minutes. If it's still too soft, you can add a bit more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a firmer consistency.

Banana Pudding Dessert Cheese Ball Recipe

Name: Banana Pudding Dessert Cheese Ball Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 3.4 oz package of instant banana cream pudding mix; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies

Description

Indulge in this irresistibly creamy Banana Pudding Dessert Cheese Ball that’s a perfect blend of banana goodness and cookie crumble. This no-bake treat comes together effortlessly, making it an ideal party appetizer or dessert table showstopper. Serve it with your favorite cookies, crackers, or fruit for a delightful dipping experience!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Cheese Ball Mixture

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
3.4 oz package of instant banana cream pudding mix
2 Tbsp brown sugar

Coating

1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies

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Instructions

Mix Cream Cheese and Butter
In a stand mixer, or a medium bowl with a hand mixer, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and fluffy.
Add Sugars and Pudding Mix
Once the mixture becomes fluffy, gradually add the powdered sugar, banana pudding mix, and brown sugar. Mix everything until fully incorporated and smooth.
Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 1 ½ to 2 hours to firm up.
Form the Cheese Ball
Once chilled, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Form the mixture into a ball shape with your hands. Roll the ball in the crushed vanilla wafer cookies to evenly coat its entire surface.
Final Chill and Serve
Place the coated cheese ball back into the refrigerator for at least 30 more minutes to set. Serve chilled with banana slices, extra vanilla wafers, or your favorite cookies or crackers. Optionally, serve with whipped cream for dipping!

Notes

You can substitute the banana pudding mix with any flavor of your choice if you prefer a different taste.
For a chunkier exterior, crush the vanilla wafers less finely before coating the cheese ball.
This recipe freezes well. Once shaped, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Chilling the cheese ball twice is essential to ensure it’s stable and firm for serving.
Pair it with vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even graham crackers for dipping.
Add-ins like white chocolate chips can add an exciting texture and flavor dimension to the cheese ball.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 175kcal
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 95mg
Fat: 95mg
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg