Best Banana Pudding Ever

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 Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic comfort dessertย thatโ€™s 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.
  • Itโ€™s 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

  1. 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.
  2. Fold in whipped cream:ย Gently fold in the whipped cream or topping until fully combined for a light and fluffy texture.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Serve:ย Garnish with extra wafers, banana slices, or whipped cream before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings:ย This recipe serves 8โ€“10 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 thereโ€™s 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. Whatโ€™s 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 puddingโ€™s 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, itโ€™s 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!

Print
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Best Banana Pudding Ever

Best Banana Pudding Ever

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • 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 thatโ€™s perfect for any occasion. Simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

Units Scale

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:

  • 45 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 1 1/2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the Topping:
    Spread whipped cream or whipped topping evenly over the pudding.
  5. Chill:
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  6. 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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