If comfort had a flavor, banana pudding might be it. Creamy, cool, and layered with fresh bananas and vanilla wafers, this no-bake dessert is a Southern classic that feels like a warm hug—only chilled. It’s rich without being heavy, sweet without going overboard, and delightfully nostalgic in every spoonful.
Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a solo late-night treat, this banana pudding is easy to whip up and even easier to devour. And yes, the longer it chills, the better it gets.
⏱ Prep Time 20 minutes (plus chill time) | 🔥 Cook Time None | 🍽 Servings 6–8 | 🌱 Difficulty Level Easy | 📦 Storage Tips Keep refrigerated and covered for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed within 24 hours for freshest bananas.
Ingredients List
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3–4 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- Optional: crushed cookies or extra banana slices for topping
Instructions
- Mix pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it set for 5 minutes.
- Add sweetness: Stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whip cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold it into the pudding mixture.
- Layer it: In a dish or individual cups, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat until filled, ending with pudding on top.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with extra whipped cream or cookies if desired.
💡 Recipe Notes / Tips
- Want more flavor? Add a pinch of cinnamon to the pudding or caramel drizzle on top.
- Make it lighter: Use light whipped topping and low-fat milk instead of cream and condensed milk.
- Texture tip: Add wafers just before layering if you like them crunchy.
🧮 Nutrition Info (approx. per serving, 8 servings)
- Calories: 370 Carbs: 48g Fat: 18g Protein: 5g Sugar: 31g
❓ FAQs
- Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Just layer and chill up to 24 hours in advance. Bananas may darken slightly but still taste great. - Q: Can I use homemade pudding?
A: Of course. If you have time, homemade custard-style pudding adds an extra layer of richness. - Q: How do I keep bananas from browning?
A: Lightly coat slices with lemon juice, but just a little—too much can alter the flavor.
Made this dreamy banana pudding? Show it off and tag your bowl with #the_food_pedia on Instagram 🍌
