If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s creamy, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible, Banana Pudding fits the bill perfectly. This beloved Southern treat layers sweet vanilla pudding, pillowy whipped cream, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers into one unforgettable bite. It’s no-bake, simple to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser—making it a must for potlucks, holidays, or any time you want to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pudding:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups cold water
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
For Layering:
- 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

How to Make Banana Pudding

Step 1: Mix the Pudding Base

Start by whisking your sweetened condensed milk and cold water together in a large mixing bowl. Make sure it’s smooth and fully combined, as this creates the rich foundation for your Banana Pudding. Once mixed, add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for a good two minutes—the pudding will begin to come together before your eyes. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 5 minutes until it’s just slightly thickened.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

While the pudding mixture chills, grab a second bowl and pour in your heavy whipping cream. With a hand mixer (or a good ol’ whisk and some elbow grease), whip the cream until you see stiff peaks form. This means the cream will hold its shape on the beaters and stay fluffy—exactly what you want for dreamy Banana Pudding.

Step 3: Combine the Two Mixtures

Gently fold the whipped cream into your pudding base. Take your time and use a spatula to turn the bowl and lift the mixture from beneath, preserving all that lovely air you just whipped into the cream. This step makes the pudding feel light-as-air and utterly luscious.

Step 4: Layer the Banana Pudding

Now the fun starts! In a 9×13-inch dish or a pretty trifle bowl, begin by creating a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spoon a thick layer of the creamy pudding mixture over the top. Repeat the layering process—wafers, bananas, pudding—until you use up all your ingredients, and finish with a final layer of pudding for a smooth top.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Loosely cover your assembled Banana Pudding and let it rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long! This chilling time allows the flavors to marry and the wafers to soften slightly, creating that classic, spoonable perfection.

How to Serve Banana Pudding

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra crushed vanilla wafers over the top or add a generous swirl of whipped cream. Fresh banana slices or a dusting of cinnamon can also make your Banana Pudding look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Serving Banana Pudding alongside a fresh fruit salad or light tea cookies makes for a refreshing dessert spread. Its creamy, sweet profile pairs beautifully with darker coffee or even a tart citrus sorbet if you’re feeling fancy.

Creative Ways to Present

While a big dish is classic, why not layer your Banana Pudding into mason jars, parfait glasses, or mini trifle bowls? Individual servings are charming for parties and make it easy for guests to grab and go. You can even build a fun Banana Pudding bar and let everyone customize their toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Banana Pudding, cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, though the bananas may soften and the wafers will absorb more moisture as time passes—making it even more delicious in my book!

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Banana Pudding, as the creamy mixture can split and the bananas may become mushy when thawed. For best flavor and texture, enjoy it fresh from the fridge and aim to make only as much as you’ll need within a few days.

Reheating

Since Banana Pudding is a chilled dessert, there’s no need to reheat it. In fact, serving it cold is half the charm—just give it a gentle stir if you notice any separation, and enjoy straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make Banana Pudding the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, letting Banana Pudding chill overnight enhances its flavor and gives the wafers a perfectly soft texture. Just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.

What bananas are best for this recipe?

Choose bananas that are fully ripe with yellow skins and a few brown speckles. They’ll provide the sweetest, richest flavor without being mushy or overpowering the dish.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Of course! If you have extra time and want a more traditional Southern flavor, homemade vanilla pudding is a fantastic choice; just make sure it’s fully cooled before assembling your Banana Pudding layers.

How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?

If you’re assembling Banana Pudding in advance, you can dip the banana slices in a bit of lemon juice before layering. This slows browning without impacting flavor, and the creamy layers help keep air exposure minimal too.

Can I make this Banana Pudding gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the classic vanilla wafers for your favorite gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adaptation for all to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s a certain magic in sharing a big dish of Banana Pudding with family and friends—it’s comforting, nostalgic, and just plain delightful. Give this classic recipe a try and let it become a dessert tradition in your own kitchen!

Banana Pudding Recipe

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4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of this classic Southern Banana Pudding. Layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and a luscious pudding mixture come together to create a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding:

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1½ cups cold water
1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups heavy whipping cream

For Layering:

1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

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Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until well combined. Add the instant pudding mix and whisk for 2 minutes. Refrigerate for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
Layer the Dessert: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture, repeating layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.