Banana Pudding Recipe

Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible. It layers fresh bananas, rich vanilla custard, and soft vanilla wafers for a spoonful of pure nostalgia.

Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dessert always steals the show. Its simple ingredients and no-bake preparation make it a favorite among beginner and seasoned cooks alike.

With a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, banana pudding is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a heartwarming dish that brings people together.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding

This banana pudding is the kind of dessert that keeps you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds. What makes it so special is its perfect layering of flavors and textures.

The vanilla wafers become delightfully soft as they soak up the custard, while the banana slices remain fresh and fruity. The creamy pudding ties it all together, and when topped with a light whipped cream or meringue, it’s pure magic.

Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its ease. No baking is required, and it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining. It’s also super versatile—you can switch things up by using banana-flavored pudding, adding caramel drizzle, or even layering it in individual cups for a modern twist.

Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or a weekday indulgence, this banana pudding never fails to impress.

Make-Ahead Tips

Banana pudding is a great make-ahead dessert because the flavors actually improve as it sits. The vanilla wafers absorb moisture from the pudding, becoming soft and cake-like, and the bananas infuse the dessert with their natural sweetness.

Here are some tips to make the most of your prep time:

• Prepare it a day ahead for the best texture. It needs at least 4 hours in the fridge to set well.
• Use slightly underripe bananas so they don’t get mushy or brown quickly. A little firmness helps maintain texture overnight.
• Add the whipped cream topping just before serving if you’re using fresh cream, to keep it light and fluffy.
• Use a glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers, and cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
• Individual servings in jars or cups can also be prepped ahead and make for a charming presentation.

Ingredients

• 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold whole milk
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub of whipped topping)
• 1 box vanilla wafers
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding Base
   In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
   Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Whip the Cream
   In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully blended and fluffy. (If using whipped topping, just fold it in.)
4. Assemble the Layers
   In a 9×13-inch glass dish, layer the vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers. Spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with a pudding layer.
5. Chill
   Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and wafers to soften.
6. Serve
   Before serving, you can add extra banana slices or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top for garnish.

Tips for a Better Banana Pudding

• Use ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture. Overripe ones can become too mushy.
• Layer thoughtfully: Make sure each layer of banana is fully covered with pudding to prevent browning.
• Chill overnight to allow the flavors to fully meld—this is when the dessert tastes its best!
• Use homemade whipped cream for a richer and more luxurious taste.
• Try variations: Add a touch of cinnamon to the pudding or drizzle caramel sauce between layers for a unique twist.

4. Can I freeze banana pudding?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture changes when thawed. The bananas can become mushy and the pudding grainy.

FAQs

1. Can I use banana-flavored pudding instead of vanilla?
Yes! Banana-flavored pudding gives an extra boost of banana taste, but classic vanilla keeps it traditional and allows the fresh bananas to shine.

2. How long does banana pudding last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten within 2–3 days. After that, the bananas may start to brown and the texture becomes too soft.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk, dairy-free whipped topping, and dairy-free condensed milk. Just ensure your pudding mix is also dairy-free.

Banana pudding is a timeless dessert that combines comfort and sweetness in every spoonful. With its creamy layers, fresh fruit, and nostalgic charm, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Easy to make, perfect for prepping ahead, and totally customizable—this banana pudding recipe deserves a spot in your go-to dessert collection. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, it’s one of those treats that always tastes like home.