Looking for a delightful dessert that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the creamy, comforting flavor of banana pudding? These Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups are the perfect indulgence! Whether you're hosting a party or craving something sweet and creamy, this easy-to-make dessert will impress everyone. With layers of smooth banana pudding, crunchy vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, and a decadent chocolate shell, these pudding cups are sure to be a hit. Let's dive into the full recipe to make your own!

Ingredients List for Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious banana pudding cups:

For the Banana Pudding:

1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 ½ cups vanilla wafer cookies (or graham crackers), crushed

For the Chocolate Shell:

1 ½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil (or vegetable oil)

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream
Crushed vanilla wafers
Fresh banana slices
Chocolate shavings

Substitutions and Variations

Vanilla Pudding Option: If you're not a fan of banana-flavored pudding, you can substitute it with vanilla or even chocolate pudding for a different twist.
Chocolate Choices: You can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or a combination of both for the chocolate shell depending on your preference.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or graham crackers to make the recipe gluten-free.
Healthier Option: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and sugar-free pudding mix.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Banana Pudding:

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix, cold milk, and heavy cream (if using) for 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other components.

2. Assemble the Pudding Cups:

In your serving cups (you can use small glass jars, bowls, or disposable cups), layer the ingredients in this order:

Crushed Vanilla Wafers: Add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers at the bottom of each cup.
Banana Slices: Top the wafers with a layer of fresh banana slices.
Pudding Layer: Spoon a layer of chilled banana pudding on top of the banana slices.

Repeat these layers one more time, finishing with a final layer of pudding. Smooth the top layer to ensure it’s even.

3. Make the Chocolate Shell:

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 30-second increments, stirring after each round until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. You can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove.

4. Pour the Chocolate Over the Pudding Cups:

Once the chocolate is melted, pour a thin layer over the top of each pudding cup, spreading it evenly to create a chocolate "shell." The chocolate will harden as it cools, forming a crunchy top layer.

5. Chill the Pudding Cups:

Place the assembled pudding cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to fully set and the flavors to meld.

6. Add Toppings and Serve:

Just before serving, add any optional toppings like whipped cream, additional crushed vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, or chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Chilling the Pudding: Be sure to chill the pudding for at least 10-15 minutes after mixing so it thickens properly.
Overheating the Chocolate: When melting chocolate, be careful not to overheat it. Melt in short intervals to prevent burning.
Too Thin Chocolate Layer: Don’t spread the chocolate layer too thin, or it might not form a proper shell. Aim for at least ⅛-inch thickness for the best result.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups:

Individual Servings: Serve the pudding cups directly in individual glass jars or dessert cups for a pretty and easy presentation.
Add Toppings Right Before Serving: Whipped cream and fresh banana slices should be added right before serving to ensure they stay fresh.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups:

Layered Look: Use clear cups or jars so guests can see the beautiful layers of pudding, banana slices, and chocolate.
Garnish: Add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with extra vanilla wafer crumbs or chocolate shavings for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Recipe Tips

Make Ahead: These pudding cups can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for entertaining.
Extra Creamy Pudding: For an extra creamy and rich pudding, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
Coconut Oil for a Glossy Shell: Coconut oil helps the chocolate harden into a shiny, firm shell. If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use a small amount of vegetable oil instead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, you can use homemade pudding! Just prepare your favorite banana or vanilla pudding recipe and use it in place of the instant pudding mix.

2. How long do these pudding cups last?
These pudding cups can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover them well with plastic wrap to prevent the bananas from browning.

3. Can I make this recipe without the chocolate shell?
Absolutely! If you prefer a simpler dessert, you can skip the chocolate shell and just enjoy the pudding cups with a topping of whipped cream and banana slices.

4. What if I don’t have coconut oil for the chocolate shell?
If you don’t have coconut oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil, which will also help the chocolate harden but may not give the same glossy finish.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and indulgent. Whether you're hosting a party or just want a delicious dessert for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. With layers of creamy banana pudding, fresh banana slices, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a rich chocolate shell, this dessert is both easy to make and full of flavor. Give it a try, and don't forget to share these sweet treats with your family and friends!