This banana pudding recipe is a delightful blend of creamy layers, ripe bananas, and sweet vanilla wafers. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and tastes like a slice of heaven in every bite.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort dessertย thatโs perfect for gatherings or weeknight treats.
- Requiresย simple and affordable ingredients.
- No baking required, making it quick and stress-free to prepare.
- Versatile: customize the layers to suit your taste preferences.
- Itโs a guaranteedย crowd-pleaserย for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Vanilla pudding mix
- Whole milk
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Whipped cream or whipped topping
- Vanilla wafers
- Fresh bananas
Directions
- Prepare the pudding:ย In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until smooth and thickened. Let it sit for a few minutes to set.
- Fold in whipped cream:ย Gently fold in the whipped cream or topping until fully combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Layer the ingredients:ย In a serving dish, start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then a layer of pudding mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.
- Chill:ย Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
- Serve:ย Garnish with extra wafers, banana slices, or whipped cream before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย This recipe serves 8โ10 people.
- Preparation time:ย 15 minutes
- Chilling time:ย 4 hours
Variations
- Add cream cheese:ย Mix softened cream cheese into the pudding mixture for an extra creamy and tangy twist.
- Use chocolate wafers:ย Swap vanilla wafers for chocolate ones for a chocolaty version.
- Incorporate caramel:ย Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers for a decadent touch.
- Make it boozy:ย Add a splash of banana liqueur to the pudding mixture for an adult-friendly dessert.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Cover and store banana pudding in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing:ย Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
- Reheating:ย This dessert is served cold, so thereโs no reheating required.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding mix?
Yes, homemade pudding works beautifully and adds a personal touch.
2. Whatโs the best way to keep bananas from browning?
Coat banana slices with lemon or pineapple juice before layering.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is even better when made a day in advance.
4. Are there gluten-free alternatives to vanilla wafers?
Yes, look for gluten-free wafer cookies at your local grocery store.
5. Can I use almond milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, but it may affect the puddingโs consistency. Choose a thick, creamy almond milk.
6. What can I use instead of whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
7. How long does this dessert stay fresh?
Banana pudding stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 days.
8. Can I add other fruits?
Certainly! Strawberries or blueberries make excellent additions.
9. What size dish should I use for layering?
An 8×8-inch dish works well, but any similar-sized dish is fine.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger dish.
Conclusion
This banana pudding recipe is a foolproof way to create a dessert that everyone will rave about. With its creamy layers and fresh banana flavor, itโs sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Give it a try and experience the joy of making (and eating) the best banana pudding ever!
PrintBest Banana Pudding Ever
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This is the ultimate banana pudding recipe, combining layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and sweet vanilla wafers. It’s topped with whipped cream for a dessert thatโs perfect for any occasion. Simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 1 (5 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
For the Layers:
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
- 1 1/2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until combined. Chill for 10 minutes. - Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth. - Assemble the Layers:
In a trifle dish or large bowl, layer the vanilla wafer cookies, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top. - Add the Topping:
Spread whipped cream or whipped topping evenly over the pudding. - Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. - Serve:
Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or a banana slice on top if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For extra flavor, lightly sprinkle the bananas with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
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