Classic Banana Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Banana pudding is a classic, creamy dessert that combines layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s a comforting treat perfect for family gatherings or any time you crave a sweet, nostalgic delight.

Ingredients

• 5 oz box vanilla pudding mix (1 family size box)
• 1 ½ cups cold milk
• 14 oz condensed milk (1 can)
• 12 oz whipped topping (divided)
• 16 oz vanilla wafer cookies (1 box)
• 7-8 whole bananas

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes to let it set.
2. Step 2: Fold the condensed milk into the chilled pudding mixture until fully combined.
3. Step 3: Reserve 1 cup of whipped topping, then fold the remaining whipped topping into the pudding mixture. Return the pudding mixture to the refrigerator while you prepare the bananas.
4. Step 4: Slice the bananas into thin rounds.
5. Step 5: Begin layering the dessert in a trifle bowl or large glass dish: start with half of the vanilla wafer cookies on the bottom, then add half of the banana slices, followed by half of the pudding mixture.
6. Step 6: Repeat the layers with the remaining cookies, bananas, and pudding mixture, finishing with pudding on top.
7. Step 7: Spread the reserved 1 cup of whipped topping evenly over the top layer. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers and a few banana slices for decoration.
8. Step 8: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use homemade vanilla pudding instead of instant mix.
• Substitute dark chocolate chips between layers for a chocolate twist.
• Use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping for a lighter texture.
• To prevent bananas from browning, toss slices with a little lemon juice before layering.

Storage

Store banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture is best eaten within this time as the cookies will continue to soften. Before serving, you can gently stir or add more whipped topping if needed. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become watery upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes, banana pudding can be prepared a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness.

What can I use if I don’t have vanilla wafer cookies?

You can substitute graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a different but still delicious texture and flavor.

Classic Banana Pudding Recipe

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5 from 52 reviews

This classic Banana Pudding recipe is a creamy, dreamy dessert featuring layers of vanilla pudding, sweet condensed milk, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafer cookies, topped with fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake treat comes together quickly and is best enjoyed chilled for a refreshing finish.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Banana Pudding Mixture

• 5 oz box vanilla pudding mix (1 family size box)
• 1 ½ cups cold milk
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 12 oz whipped topping, divided

Additional Ingredients

• 16 oz vanilla wafer cookies (1 box)
• 7–8 whole bananas, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes to allow the pudding to set.
2. Mix in condensed milk: Fold the sweetened condensed milk into the chilled pudding mixture until fully combined.
3. Add whipped topping: Reserve 1 cup of whipped topping for garnish. Fold the remaining whipped topping gently into the pudding mixture. Return the pudding to the refrigerator while you prepare the bananas.
4. Slice the bananas: Peel and slice the bananas evenly to layer in the dessert.
5. Assemble the layers: In a trifle bowl or large serving dish, layer half of the vanilla wafer cookies on the bottom, followed by half of the banana slices, then half of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layering with the remaining cookies, bananas, and pudding, finishing with pudding on top.
6. Add whipped topping and garnish: Spread the reserved 1 cup of whipped topping evenly over the top of the dessert. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafer cookies and additional banana slices for decoration.
7. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled banana pudding for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften before serving.

Notes

• For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning.
• You can substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping if preferred.
• The pudding can be made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight for enhanced flavor.
• Use airtight wrapping when storing leftovers to maintain freshness.
• Crushed wafers on top add a nice texture contrast.

Keywords: banana pudding, no-bake dessert, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, banana dessert, layered pudding, vanilla wafers