Creamy Banana Pudding Recipe

Banana pudding is one of those desserts that brings instant comfort with every spoonful. It’s creamy, sweet, and packed with delicious layers of vanilla wafers, banana slices, and velvety pudding.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a summer picnic, or just a cozy night in, this dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.

I still remember the first time I had banana pudding, it was at a family get-together, and my grandmother made a big dish of it. The way the bananas softened into the pudding and the wafers got just the right amount of crunch was pure magic. Since then, it has been one of my favorite desserts to make.

The best part? It’s super easy to prepare! No fancy baking skills are needed, and you can make it ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy schedules. So, let’s dive into this classic banana pudding recipe that will make everyone ask for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – You don’t need any special equipment, and the steps are simple to follow.
• No-Bake Dessert – This pudding sets in the fridge, so you don’t have to turn on the oven.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for potlucks, holidays, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
• Deliciously Creamy – A combination of rich pudding, fresh bananas, and soft wafers makes every bite perfect.
• Customizable – You can add whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic banana pudding:

For the Pudding Mixture

• 2 cups cold whole milk
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

For the Layers

• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafers
• Whipped cream (for topping, optional)

This ingredient list keeps it simple yet incredibly flavorful.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start, gather these basic kitchen tools to make the process smooth and easy:

• Mixing bowls – One large for mixing the pudding and one medium for whipping the cream.
• Hand mixer or whisk – To blend the pudding mixture and whip the cream.
• Spatula or spoon – For folding ingredients together and layering.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
• Knife and cutting board – To slice the bananas.
• Serving dish (8×8 or 9×13-inch dish) – A glass or ceramic dish works great for layering and serving.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and vanilla pudding mix until it thickens (about 2 minutes).
2. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream using a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Layer the Banana Pudding

1. Place a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your serving dish.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
3. Spread a layer of the pudding mixture evenly over the bananas.
4. Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, pudding) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of pudding.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow flavors to meld.
2. Before serving, top with whipped cream and extra vanilla wafers for a decorative touch.
3. Scoop, serve, and enjoy!

More Recipes >>>>>> Strawberry Hibiscus Iced Tea

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Ripe Bananas – They should be yellow with a few brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Chilling Time – This allows the wafers to soften slightly, making each bite perfectly creamy.
• Layer Smartly – Keep the bananas covered with pudding to prevent them from turning brown.
• Make It Ahead – Banana pudding tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
• Try Different Wafers – While vanilla wafers are classic, you can switch it up with graham crackers or shortbread cookies.
• For Extra Flavor – Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

This banana pudding is guaranteed to be a hit! It’s simple, sweet, and filled with nostalgia in every bite.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Milk Alternatives: If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options, use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or graham crackers for a gluten-free dessert.
• Pudding Flavor Twist: Try using banana or chocolate-flavored pudding mix for a fun variation.
• Lower Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free pudding mix and opt for unsweetened whipped cream to reduce sugar content.
• Add Fruit: Mix in strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between layers for extra crunch.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic Style: Serve it chilled straight from the fridge with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• Parfait Cups: Layer the pudding in individual cups for easy, portable servings—perfect for parties!
• Fancy Garnish: Top with caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of crushed cookies.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Banana Pudding Trifle: Use a large glass bowl to create a beautiful trifle, showcasing the layers.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigerator: Cover the banana pudding with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze banana pudding for up to 1 month. However, the texture may change as the bananas and wafers can become mushy.

Reheating

• Banana pudding is best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, you can microwave a small portion for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as heating too much may cause the pudding to separate.

More Recipes >>>>>> Easy Chia Seed Pudding With Almond Milk

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FAQ

Q: Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
A: Absolutely! Homemade pudding will add a richer flavor, though it may take longer to prepare.

Q: How can I keep the bananas from turning brown?
A: To prevent browning, you can lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice before layering. This won’t affect the taste much but will keep the bananas looking fresh.

Q: Can I make banana pudding in advance?
A: Yes! It’s even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften just right.

Q: What if I don’t have vanilla wafers?
A: No worries! Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even ladyfingers work well as substitutes.

Q: How do I make it look pretty for a party?
A: Use a clear glass dish or trifle bowl to show off the layers, and add whipped cream or banana slices on top for decoration.

This banana pudding recipe is a surefire way to win over your family and friends. It’s simple, tasty, and filled with nostalgic charm.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!