If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and show-stopping, Easy Banana Pudding absolutely fits the bill. This classic Southern treat layers creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, ripe bananas, and sweet vanilla wafers for a dreamy, no-bake creation that’s as simple to make as it is irresistible. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or just treating yourself on a weekday, Easy Banana Pudding delivers nostalgia and pure joy in every single spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
For the Pudding Mixture
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
For the Whipped Cream
- 3 cups cold heavy whipping cream
Other Ingredients
- 1 box (about 11 ounces) vanilla wafer cookies
- 4 to 5 ripe bananas, sliced
How to Make Easy Banana Pudding
Step 1: Mix the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until everything is smooth and well combined. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for about 2 minutes until it thickens up nicely. Pop the bowl in the fridge for 5 minutes to let the pudding set. This step creates that signature creamy, comforting base for your Easy Banana Pudding.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In another large bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the cream for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. You want a texture that’s light and fluffy but stable enough to hold up in those pretty layers.
Step 3: Fold and Combine
Gently fold the freshly whipped cream into your chilled pudding mixture. Take your time here—use a spatula and a light hand to keep everything airy and smooth. This is the step that makes Easy Banana Pudding feel so homemade and decadent.
Step 4: Layer It Up
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large trifle bowl. Start with a generous layer of vanilla wafers, then add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a thick layer of your pudding mixture. Repeat these layers until you’ve used up all your ingredients, finishing with a final layer of that glorious pudding.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover your assembled pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This resting time allows the cookies to soften and meld with the creamy layers for the best flavor and texture. When you’re ready to serve, just grab a big spoon and dig in!
How to Serve Easy Banana Pudding
Garnishes
Just before serving, top your Easy Banana Pudding with a handful of crushed vanilla wafers for a bit of crunch and a pretty finish. You can also add a few extra banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon if you want to dress things up.
Side Dishes
While Easy Banana Pudding can absolutely stand alone, it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving at a potluck or party, consider a fresh fruit salad or some salty snacks on the side to balance out the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making individual servings in mason jars or small glasses—perfect for picnics or parties. You can also serve Easy Banana Pudding in a trifle bowl for a dramatic, layered effect, or get playful by adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a handful of mini chocolate chips between the layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Easy Banana Pudding tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, though the bananas may start to brown a bit over time. The flavors actually deepen as it sits!
Freezing
While you technically can freeze Easy Banana Pudding, the bananas tend to get mushy and the texture changes once thawed. For best results, enjoy this dessert fresh or within a couple of days of making it.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled—no reheating needed! If you prefer a slightly softer pudding, just let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using a whipped topping like Cool Whip will still give you a fluffy, delicious Easy Banana Pudding. Homemade whipped cream just adds a touch of extra richness.
How long does Easy Banana Pudding need to chill before serving?
For the best texture and flavor, let your pudding chill for at least 4 hours. Overnight is even better, since it gives the cookies time to soften and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I make Easy Banana Pudding ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making in advance. Simply assemble it the night before and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just wait to add any garnishes until right before serving to keep them crisp.
What kind of bananas should I use?
Choose bananas that are ripe with a few brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor. Overly ripe bananas may become too mushy, while underripe bananas won’t offer enough sweetness.
Can I add other fruits or flavors?
Definitely! While classic Easy Banana Pudding sticks to bananas, you can add strawberries, blueberries, or even a swirl of peanut butter or caramel for a creative spin. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and loaded with Southern charm, Easy Banana Pudding is the recipe to try next. It’s a no-fuss treat that brings out big smiles every time. Give it a whirl and get ready to fall in love with each creamy, dreamy bite!
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Easy Banana Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Banana Pudding is a delightful no-bake Southern classic featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafer cookies. It’s rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet—an ideal dessert to prepare ahead for gatherings or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
For the Pudding Mixture
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
For the Whipped Cream
- 3 cups cold heavy whipping cream
Other Ingredients
- 1 box (about 11 ounces) vanilla wafer cookies
- 4 to 5 ripe bananas, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until fully combined. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and continue whisking vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 5 minutes to allow the pudding to set properly.
- Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, use an electric mixer on high speed to beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Take care not to overbeat to maintain a smooth texture.
- Combine Pudding and Whipped Cream: Gently fold the stiff whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until smoothly incorporated. This will create a light, airy pudding base perfect for layering.
- Assemble the Banana Pudding: In a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large trifle bowl, start by layering a single layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, then spread a layer of the pudding mixture on top. Repeat these layers—wafers, bananas, pudding—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the assembled dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the wafers to soften slightly and flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a luscious, creamy dessert.
Notes
- For added texture and visual appeal, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafer cookies on top just before serving.
- You can substitute homemade whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip) to save time.
- Best enjoyed within 2 days to ensure freshness and optimal flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
