Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mixes and cold milk for 2 minutes until well combined and slightly thickened. Set aside.
Step 2: In a separate large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain. Do not overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping.
Step 4: Slowly add the prepared vanilla pudding mixture to the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture. Fold until just combined and smooth. This creates your luscious pudding base for the Easy Banana Pudding Cups.
Step 5: Begin assembling your Easy Banana Pudding Cups. Place a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of 8-10 individual serving cups or jars. You may need to break some wafers to fit.
Step 6: Top the wafer layer with a layer of sliced bananas, arranging them neatly.
Step 7: Spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas and wafers, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Repeat the layers: another layer of vanilla wafers, followed by sliced bananas, and then more pudding mixture. Continue until your cups are nearly full, ending with a pudding layer.
Step 9: Dollop or pipe the remaining whipped topping over the top of each Easy Banana Pudding Cup. Garnish with a few extra vanilla wafers or banana slices, if desired.
Step 10: Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pudding to set and the flavors to meld. This also gives the vanilla wafers time to soften to that classic cake-like texture, making these Easy Banana Pudding Cups truly irresistible.