Apple Pie Pudding (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced.
02 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter.
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
04 - 1/4 cup light brown sugar.
05 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon.
06 - 1/4 tsp nutmeg.
07 - 1 tbsp lemon juice.
08 - 1 tbsp cornstarch.
09 - 2 tbsp water.
10 - 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix.
11 - 2 cups cold milk.
12 - 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip).
13 - 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk.
14 - 1 tsp vanilla extract.
15 - 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced.
16 - 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies or graham crackers, crushed.
17 - Caramel sauce for drizzling.

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften. Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. Fold in the sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and vanilla extract until well combined and creamy.
03 - In a clear serving dish (or individual cups), layer the crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers on the bottom. Add a layer of the prepared pudding on top, followed by a layer of banana slices. Spoon a layer of the cooled apple pie filling on top of the bananas. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of pudding.
04 - Top with additional crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy the sweet, creamy, and spiced dessert!.

# Notes:

01 - Apple Selection: Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to balance the sweetness of the pudding and banana layers.
02 - Make Ahead: This dessert is even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
03 - Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.