Creating the Best Banana Pudding Recipe is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Prepare Pudding Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk together until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes. Then, fold in the sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.

2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla extract. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to keep it light and fluffy.

3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until well combined. This will give your pudding that desired light and airy texture.

4. Layering Starts: In a large serving dish, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom.

5. Add Banana Slices: Next, add a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.

6. Pour Pudding: Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out evenly.

7. Repeat Layers: Continue layering the ingredients: vanilla wafers, bananas, and pudding until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.

8. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

9. Serve: Once chilled and set, add crushed vanilla wafers on top for garnish if desired.