From an 11-ounce box of vanilla wafer cookies, set aside 5 for the topping. Spread 1/4 of the pudding (about 1 1/2 cups) in an even layer in a 4- to 5-quart trifle or glass serving bowl. Arrange 1/3 ...

Nilla wafers: The iconic vanilla cookie pulls double duty as both the base for the crumb crust and used whole between the mousse and pudding layers, softening as it chills (a nod to the classic).

The secret to sweet, flavorful, top-notch French toast is probably sitting in the back of your pantry. Just grab a handy box of vanilla pudding mix to bring an aromatic, even-sweeter twist to this ...