Banana pudding is a beloved classic that has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. This easy banana pudding recipe is perfect for those who crave a delicious, no-bake dessert that can be whipped up in no time. With its layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, this dessert is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this banana pudding is sure to impress. The best part? It requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks.
Table of contents
Recipe Card
Banana Pudding
Cuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy8
servings15
minutes300
kcalThis easy banana pudding recipe features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s ready in just 15 minutes and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups cold milk
1 package (5 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped
4 cups sliced ripe bananas
1 box vanilla wafers
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
- In a trifle dish or large bowl, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
- You can substitute Cool Whip for whipped cream if desired.
- For a more intense banana flavor, use banana-flavored pudding mix.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Rich, Homemade Custard
Many banana pudding recipes rely on instant pudding mix, but nothing beats the flavor and texture of a homemade custard. The from-scratch vanilla pudding in this recipe is made with egg yolks, whole milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract. It creates a smooth, creamy consistency that perfectly coats the bananas and wafers.
If you’ve never made homemade pudding before, don’t worry! This recipe includes step-by-step instructions to ensure success. Cooking the custard over medium heat while constantly stirring prevents lumps and guarantees a silky-smooth texture.
2. Perfect Banana Flavor
Bananas are the star ingredient in banana pudding, so choosing the right ones is key. For the best results:
- Use ripe but firm bananas – Overripe bananas can become mushy too quickly, while underripe ones lack sweetness. Look for yellow bananas with a few brown spots for the perfect balance.
- Slice bananas just before assembling – This prevents browning and ensures the freshest taste.
- Layer strategically – Placing banana slices between the pudding and wafers locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
3. The Magic of Vanilla Wafers
One of the most exciting parts of banana pudding is how the vanilla wafers absorb the pudding’s moisture over time. They start out crunchy but soften into a cake-like texture after chilling, creating the perfect contrast against the creamy custard and fresh bananas.
If you prefer a bit more texture, you can use graham crackers or shortbread cookies as an alternative. These add a slightly different flavor but still work beautifully in this recipe.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly
Banana pudding is one of those desserts that gets better with time. Allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) lets the flavors meld and creates the signature creamy texture. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings.
5. Customizable to Your Preferences
Another reason why this banana pudding recipe is so great is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Lighter Version – Swap whole milk for almond or coconut milk and use a sugar substitute for a healthier twist.
- Extra Decadent – Add a layer of whipped cream or fold in sweetened condensed milk for a richer texture.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or substitute them with crushed nuts for a delicious crunch.
- Chocolate Banana Pudding – Add a layer of chocolate ganache or cocoa powder to create a banana-chocolate combination.
Additional Tips for the perfect Banana Pudding Recipe
- To prevent bananas from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before layering.
- For a decorative touch, crush some vanilla wafers and sprinkle them on top before serving.
- Make individual servings in mason jars for a fun presentation.
- Add a layer of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and light whipped topping.
Variants of the Banana Pudding Recipe
Want to try something different? Here are a few delicious variations of classic banana pudding.
1. No-Bake Banana Pudding
If you’re short on time, skip the homemade custard and use instant vanilla pudding mix instead. Simply mix it with cold milk, layer with bananas and wafers, and let it chill for a few hours. It’s a quick and easy alternative!
2. Banana Pudding with Cream Cheese
For a richer, tangier version, mix softened cream cheese into the pudding. This creates a cheesecake-like texture and pairs beautifully with the sweet bananas.
3. Chocolate Banana Pudding
Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the banana and pudding layers for a decadent twist. You can also mix cocoa powder into the custard for a chocolate-infused version.
4. Coconut Banana Pudding
Swap regular milk for coconut milk and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor. This pairs exceptionally well with graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers.
5. Peanut Butter Banana Pudding
Add a layer of peanut butter or peanut butter mousse between the banana and pudding layers. The combination of peanut butter and banana is a match made in heaven!
6. Vegan Banana Pudding
Make a dairy-free version by using coconut milk or almond milk in place of dairy. Use cornstarch as a thickener and replace the wafers with a gluten-free option.
FAQ
Yes! Instant pudding mix is a quick and easy option. Just follow the package instructions, and layer it with bananas and cookies for a delicious shortcut version.
To keep bananas fresh, toss them lightly in lemon juice before layering. This helps prevent browning without changing the flavor of the pudding.
Banana pudding is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. After that, the bananas may start to soften too much and the cookies may lose their texture. Keep it covered tightly in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
What makes banana pudding recipe easy is its use of simple, readily available ingredients. Like instant vanilla pudding mix and pre-made vanilla wafers. With no baking required, you can put this dessert together in just 15 minutes. Its straightforward assembly process and adaptability make it perfect for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring a delicious and visually appealing treat every time.
This easy recipe for banana pudding is a delightful dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The creamy layers of pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy wafers create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this banana pudding is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy this creamy, dreamy treat with your loved ones, and watch it disappear in no time!
For more easy and tasty dessert recipes check our section Dessert.
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