Banana Pudding Recipe

If there’s one dessert that truly brings everyone together—kids, grandparents, neighbors, and friends—it’s Banana Pudding. Rich, creamy, and loaded with sweet banana slices nestled between silky layers of pudding, whipped topping, and crunchy vanilla wafers, this classic Southern treat just hits all the right notes. Every bite is the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and pure joy, and best of all, it’s a breeze to make from scratch at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Banana Pudding recipe keeps things beautifully simple, but every ingredient plays a starring role in how luscious, flavorful, and foolproof the final result turns out. Gather these essentials and let’s talk about why each one matters:

• Vanilla Wafers (11 oz box): These cookies are the backbone, adding a buttery crunch and soaking up just the right amount of pudding flavor.
• Bananas (4 to 6, sliced): Fresh and ripe, their natural sweetness and bright flavor are at the heart of this dessert.
• Milk (2 cups): The essential liquid to bring instant pudding to that perfect, creamy consistency—whole milk adds the most richness.
• Instant French Vanilla Pudding (5 oz box): This shortcut brings smoothness, flavor, and thickness without any fuss or stovetop work.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Blended for extra tang and density, it turns the filling from merely good to “OMG, what’s your secret?!”
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz can): The not-so-secret ingredient for deep, velvety sweetness and a truly addictive creamy texture.
• Frozen Whipped Topping (12 oz, thawed): Or use an equal amount of homemade sweetened whipped cream—either will create that irresistible cloud-like finish.

How to Make Banana Pudding

Step 1: Build the Cookie and Banana Base

Start by arranging half of your vanilla wafers right across the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Top this with your sliced bananas, spreading them out in a single layer. The goal is to make every future spoonful full of creamy pudding, crunchy cookie, and sweet banana harmonizing together. Try to slice the bananas into even circles, about a quarter to half an inch thick for just the right bite.

Step 2: Mix the Pudding

In a medium bowl, combine the cold milk with the instant French vanilla pudding mix. Use a hand mixer for about two minutes, or until everything’s well-blended and starting to thicken. Let it sit for a minute or two so the pudding really sets up—it should look smooth, thick, and luscious.

Step 3: Blend the Cream Cheese Layer

Grab a large bowl and use your hand mixer again to blend together the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. You’re aiming for a completely smooth and creamy mixture—no lumps! Once these are perfectly combined, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping with a rubber spatula. Take care to keep things fluffy and light.

Step 4: Combine the Layers

Take your thickened pudding and gently fold it into the dreamy cream cheese mixture. Work slowly to blend these together so that the final filling is silky, billowy, and flecked with pudding goodness all the way through. This is the magic that sets Banana Pudding apart from everyday desserts!

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Pour your finished pudding mixture carefully over the prepared cookies and bananas, smoothing it to the edges with a spatula. Finish by covering the top with the remaining vanilla wafers—press them in just a bit so they become part of that spoonable, irresistible layer. Slip the whole dish into the fridge for at least an hour, or up to overnight, so everything melds and thickens to perfection.

How to Serve Banana Pudding

Garnishes

Top your Banana Pudding with a flourish of freshly sliced bananas and a few extra vanilla wafers right before serving. For a little flair, try dusting with crushed wafers, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dollop of whipped cream piped into little rosettes. These simple touches amp up both the flavor and those “ooh, ahh” moments at the table.

Side Dishes

Banana Pudding is absolutely delightful on its own, but if you’re throwing a picnic or potluck, it pairs wonderfully with other Southern favorites like fried chicken, barbecue sliders, or a crisp summer salad. Even a glass of cold sweet tea or fresh lemonade makes it feel like a mini celebration!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special gatherings, try serving Banana Pudding in individual mason jars or mini trifle bowls—guests love having their own perfectly layered portions. You can also assemble everything in a big punch bowl for a dramatic, retro presentation. Top with edible flowers or a few chocolate curls for extra charm!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the Banana Pudding tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, though the bananas and wafers will continue to soften over time (some people love it this way—ultra creamy and melt-in-your-mouth!).

Freezing

Freezing isn’t usually recommended for Banana Pudding because the texture of the bananas and creamy filling can become watery or grainy once thawed. If you do decide to freeze, wrap portions tightly in an airtight container, and know the texture may change. Freshly made or refrigerated is always best for this classic!

Reheating

No need to reheat Banana Pudding—it’s meant to be served cold, straight from the fridge! If you’re worried about the pudding being too firm after chilling, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

For the freshest look, slice your bananas right before assembling the dessert. You can also toss them lightly in a little lemon juice to slow down the browning without changing the flavor of the Banana Pudding.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely! If you love making pudding from scratch, just substitute your favorite cooked vanilla pudding in place of the instant—just be sure it’s fully cooled before you blend it in. The result will be just as delicious and perhaps even a bit more decadent.

Is there a way to make Banana Pudding lighter?

You can swap in light cream cheese, reduced-fat whipped topping, or even use skim milk for a lighter version. The overall flavor and texture might change a bit, but you’ll still enjoy a comforting, satisfying dessert.

Can I make Banana Pudding dairy free?

Yes, with some creativity! Try using plant-based cream cheese, dairy-free whipped topping, non-dairy milk, and a vegan-friendly pudding mix. The method stays the same—just double-check ratios as vegan puddings can set a bit differently.

Why let Banana Pudding chill before serving?

Allowing the Banana Pudding to chill for at least an hour gives the cookies time to soften slightly, lets the flavors meld, and creates a creamier, more sliceable dessert. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding is one of those joyous, crowd-pleasing desserts that instantly reminds you why classic recipes stick around for generations. Whether you make it for a holiday, a summer picnic, or just a cozy night in, I promise you’ll fall in love with how easy, dreamy, and downright delicious each scoop is. Give it a try—you’ll see why Banana Pudding has earned a forever place at the dessert table!

Print