Description
A classic Southern dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, all topped with whipped cream and crushed wafers for an irresistible treat. This no-bake banana pudding is easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a few hours of chilling for the perfect texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Mixture
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
Layers
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
Topping (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare Pudding Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Then stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and fully incorporated, ensuring a light and airy consistency.
- Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch dish or large trifle bowl, start by layering vanilla wafers evenly on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers, then spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
- Chill: Cover the assembled pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the vanilla wafers to soften to a cake-like texture.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top the pudding with additional whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers for extra texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a more homemade flavor, use cooked vanilla pudding instead of instant pudding mix.
- Individual servings can be made in mason jars or cups for parties and easy serving.
- Chilling overnight allows the cookies to soften, creating a moist, cake-like texture.
