Let’s assemble this fun and delicious layered dessert:

1. Make the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers (or vanilla wafers), melted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir with a fork until all crumbs are moistened.
• Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish or pan.
• Place the crust in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to set while you prepare the other layers.

2. Prepare the Pudding Layer:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and the cold milk until it begins to thicken (usually about 2 minutes).
• Let the pudding sit and set for about 5 minutes.

3. Whip the Cream (if using homemade):

• While the pudding sets, if making homemade whipped cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer.
• Once it starts to thicken, gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. Set aside. (If using pre-made whipped topping like Cool Whip, ensure it’s thawed).

4. Assemble the Layers:

• Fruit Layer: Remove the chilled crust from the fridge. Arrange slices from 2 bananas evenly over the crust. Spread the well-drained crushed pineapple over the bananas.
• Pudding Layer 1: Spoon about half of the prepared vanilla pudding mixture over the fruit layer and spread gently.
• Cookie Layer: Create a layer of chocolate sandwich cookies (broken into pieces if needed) or chocolate graham crackers over the pudding.
• Pudding Layer 2: Top the cookies with the remaining pudding mixture, spreading it evenly.
• Cream Layer: Gently spread a generous layer of the whipped cream (or about half of your Cool Whip if using a 16oz tub) over the pudding.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle about half of the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips over the cream layer.

5. Chill Until Firm:

• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set completely and the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Just before serving, top the chilled dessert with fresh banana slices (from the 1-2 additional bananas).
• Drizzle with the remaining melted chocolate.
• Sprinkle with additional crushed cookies or graham cracker crumbs. Slice into squares and serve.

A delightful no-bake treat ready after chilling