Easy Classic Banana Pudding Recipe

This Easy Classic Banana Pudding Recipe is the kind of dessert that brings comfort in every spoonful. Creamy, cool, and layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas, this is one of those pudding recipes homemade that never goes out of style.

It’s simple to make, incredibly smooth, and perfect for any occasion, especially when you need a quick sweet treat that still feels special. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks. This is one of those easy summer dessert recipes you’ll want to save and make again.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box (5 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined for a silky pudding base.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. This gives the homemade banana pudding its light, fluffy texture.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture to create a smooth and creamy filling.
5. In a trifle dish or glass bowl, add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices, then spread a layer of the pudding mixture on top.
6. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a pudding layer on top.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors blend and the wafers soften.
8. Before serving, top with extra banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers for a pretty, crunchy finish.

Tips for the Perfect Classic Banana Pudding

• Use ripe but firm bananas: Overripe bananas can turn mushy quickly. You want them sweet but not too soft.
• Let it chill: This dessert tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. It allows the cookies to soften slightly, creating that nostalgic texture of a Southern banana pudding.
• Make it lighter: Substitute whipped topping for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version.
• Add extra flavor: Try a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel before serving for an elevated banana pudding dessert.

Serving & Storage Tips

This easy banana pudding is best served chilled. Serve it straight from the refrigerator for the creamiest texture. If you’re making it ahead, store it covered for up to 2 days. For longer storage, prepare the pudding mixture separately and assemble the layers closer to serving time to keep the wafers from getting too soft.

Easy Classic Banana Pudding

This Easy Classic Banana Pudding Recipe is creamy, cool, and layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas, a nostalgic Southern dessert perfect for any occasion. Prepare it ahead of time for potlucks or gatherings, and enjoy a comfort-filled treat that never goes out of style.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Chill Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Banana Pudding Base

• 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix 5 oz
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14 oz
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• salt a pinch

Layers

• 4 ripe bananas sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafers about 11 oz

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined for a silky pudding base.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture to create a smooth and creamy filling.
5. In a trifle dish or glass bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and the pudding mixture.
6. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a pudding layer on top.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Before serving, top with extra banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers if desired.

Notes

• Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
• Let the pudding chill for several hours for best texture.
• You can also swap in shortbread or graham crackers for the wafers, and a drizzle of caramel or cinnamon for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes! If you want to make your classic banana pudding recipe from scratch, use a stovetop custard pudding. It gives a richer, more authentic homemade taste.

2. How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

Lightly toss the banana slices in lemon juice before layering. This small step keeps your banana pudding desserts fresh and pretty.

3. Can I use different cookies?

Absolutely. Nilla wafers are traditional, but shortbread or graham crackers also work well for a different twist on your pudding recipes homemade.

Conclusion

This Classic Banana Pudding is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. Creamy layers of pudding, fresh banana slices, and soft wafers come together for a delightful treat that’s always welcome at the table. It’s perfect for holidays, barbecues, or whenever you need a quick dessert that looks beautiful and tastes amazing. Save this easy summer dessert recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime you need a taste of comfort!