Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that brings together layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet banana slices, and crunchy Nilla wafers in perfect harmony. This nostalgic treat is simple to make, but the combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, potluck, or just as a weeknight dessert, Banana Pudding is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Pudding is one of those timeless desserts that’s easy to make and loved by all ages. The creamy, smooth vanilla pudding pairs wonderfully with the fresh bananas and crispy wafers. Each bite is a delicious balance of textures—creamy, crunchy, and fruity—making it an irresistible treat. Plus, this recipe is quick and simple, with just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the pudding:

• 1 (5 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 1/2 cups cold milk

• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For assembly:

• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1 box Nilla wafers (about 60 wafers)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the pudding:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Stir for 2 minutes, until the pudding thickens.

   • Gently fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined. Set aside.

2. Assemble the pudding:

   • In a 9×13-inch dish or large trifle bowl, arrange a layer of Nilla wafers on the bottom.

   • Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.

   • Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading it evenly to cover.

   • Repeat the layers with another round of wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture.

3. Top the pudding:

   • Finish by arranging a few more Nilla wafers on top of the pudding for decoration.

   • Optionally, you can garnish with a few banana slices as well.

4. Chill:

   • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften.

5. Serve:

   • Once chilled, serve the Banana Pudding chilled and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.

• Preparation time: 10-15 minutes

• Chilling time: 4 hours minimum (overnight is best)

• Total time: 4 hours and 15 minutes to overnight

Variations

• Banana Pudding with Caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce between the layers for an extra layer of sweetness.

• Chocolate Banana Pudding: Add a layer of chocolate pudding mix along with the vanilla for a chocolate-banana twist.

• Coconut Banana Pudding: Add shredded coconut to the pudding or sprinkle it on top for a tropical flair.

• Homemade Vanilla Pudding: Instead of using instant pudding mix, you can make a homemade vanilla custard-style pudding for a richer, more traditional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Banana Pudding is best enjoyed within the first few days for the best texture.

• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat Banana Pudding—it’s served cold, so simply keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make Banana Pudding ahead of time?

Yes! Banana Pudding is actually better when it’s allowed to sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This gives the wafers time to soften and the flavors to develop.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use fresh whipped cream in place of Cool Whip. Just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks before folding it into the pudding mixture.

Can I use ripe bananas?

Yes, ripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because they’re sweet and soft, making them ideal for layering in the pudding.

Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes, you can make Banana Pudding in individual cups or jars by layering the ingredients just as you would in a large dish. This is perfect for serving at parties or for portion control.

Can I make this without the wafers?

If you’re not a fan of Nilla wafers, you can substitute them with graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even sponge cake. Just make sure to adjust the texture accordingly.

Why does Banana Pudding need to chill?

Chilling the Banana Pudding allows the layers to set and the wafers to soften, absorbing the pudding mixture to create a cohesive, creamy dessert. It also enhances the flavor as it gives the ingredients time to meld together.

Can I add other fruits to the Banana Pudding?

Yes! You can add other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even a few tablespoons of fruit preserves to the layers for a fun twist.

Can I use banana-flavored pudding mix?

While the classic recipe uses vanilla pudding mix to let the banana flavor shine through, you can use banana-flavored pudding mix if you prefer a more pronounced banana flavor in your pudding.

How can I make this gluten-free?

To make this dessert gluten-free, you can use gluten-free cookies, such as gluten-free shortbread, in place of the Nilla wafers.

Can I freeze Banana Pudding?

It’s not recommended to freeze Banana Pudding because the texture of the bananas and wafers may change after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding is a timeless, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy wafer layers, it’s a treat that everyone will love. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days or when you want to impress without the hassle. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, Banana Pudding is sure to be a hit!

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