how To Make Banana Pudding

There’s something magical about a creamy bowl of banana pudding. This classic southern dessert is sweet, smooth, and full of cozy flavor. Whether you’re craving an old-fashioned dessert or a quick no-bake treat, this recipe makes it easy to bring that creamy comfort right to your table.

Why You Will Love This Banana Pudding

• Simple to make with only a few basic ingredients.
• Rich, creamy texture with layers of sweet vanilla wafers.
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or a quick treat.

Ingredients

Every ingredient in this easy banana cream pudding recipe brings flavor and texture to this comforting dish:

• Ripe bananas: Naturally sweet and creamy, they’re the heart of a good ripe banana pudding.
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: Makes the base thick and smooth for a banana pudding with vanilla pudding.
• Cold milk: Helps the pudding set perfectly.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds richness and a lovely sweetness to every bite.
• Whipped topping: Keeps the pudding light and airy.
• Vanilla wafers: Classic choice for that buttery crunch in this nila wafer banana pudding recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This wafer pudding dessert is as easy as it gets. Just follow these steps for perfect banana pudding every time.

1. Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thick and creamy.
2. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, then gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth.
3. Layer vanilla wafers at the bottom of a trifle dish or small cups.
4. Add sliced bananas, then spoon over the pudding mixture evenly.
5. Repeat the layers and finish with a thick layer of pudding topped with crushed wafers.

Mistakes To Avoid When Making Banana Pudding

Even a banana pudding supreme can go wrong if you rush the process. Avoid using firm or underripe bananas; they’ll taste bland. Don’t skip the chilling time, or your pudding will be too runny. If you’re making a banana pudding recipe no bananas, double up on the wafers for structure and flavor instead.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy dessert shines at any party or weekend meal. Serve it chilled for best flavor. For a fun twist, try making banana pudding for one in small mason jars or layer it tall like banana trifle recipes. You can even drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce on top for a sweet surprise.

Easy Banana Pudding

This easy banana pudding recipe brings sweet southern comfort to your kitchen in just a few minutes. Perfect for any occasion, it features creamy layers of vanilla pudding, bananas, whipped topping, and classic vanilla wafers.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Chilling Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 6 cups

Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients

  

Banana Pudding

• 2 large ripe bananas sliced
• 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix 3.4 oz
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14 oz
• 1 container whipped topping 8 oz, thawed
• 1 box vanilla wafers about 11 oz

Instructions

 

• Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl until thick and smooth.
• Add sweetened condensed milk, then fold in whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.
• In a glass trifle dish or individual cups, layer vanilla wafers at the bottom.
• Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spoon over the creamy pudding mixture.
• Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with pudding and a sprinkle of crushed wafers on top.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the pudding to set and flavors to meld.

Notes

• Use ripe bananas for best flavor.
• Chill thoroughly before serving.
• For a banana-free version, skip the fruit and double the wafers or use banana extract.

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FAQs

Why is my banana pudding runny?

It usually means the pudding mix wasn’t whisked long enough. Make sure to use cold milk and give it time to thicken before layering. Letting it chill for at least 2 hours helps it set beautifully.

Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes! This easy banana cream pudding recipe is perfect for prepping ahead. Just assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Add fresh bananas before serving to keep them from browning.

How do I make banana pudding without bananas?

Try the banana pudding recipe no bananas version. Simply skip the fruit and use more wafers or a drop of banana extract for flavor. It’s still creamy, sweet, and delicious.

Conclusion

This creamy banana pudding brings joy to every spoonful. Whether it’s part of your southern favorites or a new family dessert, it’s guaranteed to make your table a little sweeter. Save it to your dessert board and share the love!