Best Banana Pudding Ever Recipe

If you’re searching for the Best Banana Pudding Ever, you’ve stumbled upon a true classic that delivers maximum nostalgia with minimal fuss! This crowd-pleaser layers billowy, homemade whipped cream, silky instant vanilla pudding, sweet banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers in heavenly harmony. It’s the kind of no-bake dessert that flies out of the dish at any gathering, making bellies happy and sparking stories of family recipes and potluck favorites. Whether you’re new to banana pudding or have a soft spot for the Southern staple, this recipe will easily become your go-to for creamy comfort and joyful sharing.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Pudding:

  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix

  For the Whipped Cream:

  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream

  For Assembly:

  • 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

  How to Make Best Banana Pudding Ever

  Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

  In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until fully smooth—no lumps allowed! Whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix for two minutes; you’ll feel it thicken up quickly. This base needs to chill in the fridge for at least four hours, if not overnight, so it can set into the luscious, creamy texture that’s the hallmark of Best Banana Pudding Ever.

  Step 2: Whip Up the Cream

  While your pudding chills, grab a second bowl for the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, beat until you get lovely, stiff peaks—this step is totally worth the effort, trust me! Homemade whipped cream brings best-in-class lightness and a subtle rich flavor that makes this truly the Best Banana Pudding Ever.

  Step 3: Fold Cream Into Chilled Pudding

  After the pudding base is thoroughly set, gently fold in your freshly whipped cream. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the mixture to stay lofty and airy. This creates the irresistible, mousse-like quality that defines Best Banana Pudding Ever and keeps everyone coming back for “just one more spoonful.”

  Step 4: Layer Cookies, Bananas, and Pudding

  In your chosen serving dish—a 9×13-inch baking dish or a showstopping trifle bowl—begin by adding a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by banana slices, then a generous scoop of the creamy pudding mixture. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all the ingredients, making sure to finish with a layer of pudding on top for that lovely, blank-slate surface.

  Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches and Chill

  To make the top look irresistible, crumble a few extra vanilla wafers over the pudding, letting those cookie bits add an artistic touch and extra crunch. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least two hours—overnight is even better—so the flavors can mingle and the cookies soften just right. Now you’re officially ready to serve up the Best Banana Pudding Ever to a crowd of eager dessert lovers!

  How to Serve Best Banana Pudding Ever

  

  Garnishes

  Go classic with a sprinkling of crumbled vanilla wafers just before serving—this adds crunch and makes every scoop picture-perfect. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a few extra banana slices can take your Best Banana Pudding Ever over the top. For a pop of color, consider a light dusting of cinnamon or even a sprig of mint.

  Side Dishes

  This dessert is beautifully rich, so pair it with lighter fare like a fresh fruit salad or a tart citrus sorbet to balance each bite. I love serving the Best Banana Pudding Ever with unsweetened iced tea or coffee—these drinks help cleanse the palate and let the pudding shine.

  Creative Ways to Present

  You’re not limited to a big dish—try layering the pudding in small mason jars, parfait glasses, or individual ramekins for parties or picnics. Mini trifle bowls or even cups make the Best Banana Pudding Ever extra festive and easier to distribute (plus, everyone gets an even share of bananas and cookies!).

  Make Ahead and Storage

  Storing Leftovers

  Cover leftover banana pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Best Banana Pudding Ever will keep deliciously for up to three days—the cookies get softer but never soggy, and the bananas infuse everything with more flavor.

  Freezing

  Freezing is not recommended for this dessert. The whipped cream and pudding can separate when thawed, and the bananas may develop an unappetizing texture. For best results, enjoy the Best Banana Pudding Ever fresh from the fridge within a few days.

  Reheating

  This is a no-bake, no-reheat dessert! Simply serve chilled from the fridge. If you want to refresh leftovers, top them with a few new banana slices or a handful of fresh crumbled wafers to revive their color and crunch.

  FAQs

  Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

  Absolutely, in a pinch! While homemade whipped cream gives the Best Banana Pudding Ever an extra-special flavor and texture, a quality non-dairy whipped topping can save time and still deliver a delightfully creamy dessert.

  How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

  Layer the bananas between the pudding and cookies so they’re coated and protected from air. For extra insurance, you can brush banana slices lightly with lemon juice before assembling, though the pudding’s coverage usually does the trick for a day or two.

  Can I make Best Banana Pudding Ever gluten-free?

  Yes! Just swap the standard vanilla wafer cookies for a gluten-free variety, and double-check your pudding mix label to be sure it’s gluten-free. You’ll keep all the creamy, dreamy flavor intact.

  What size dish should I use?

  A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for layered presentation and easy serving. If you’re feeling a little fancy, use a large trifle bowl for dramatic, beautiful layers. For parties, individual cups or jars are lots of fun and mess-free.

  Can I make Best Banana Pudding Ever ahead of time?

  Definitely! Assembling it at least a few hours in advance allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld together. In fact, many say the Best Banana Pudding Ever tastes even better after chilling overnight.

  Final Thoughts

  This creamy, cloud-like treat is pure comfort and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll try making the Best Banana Pudding Ever for your family and friends—don’t be surprised if they ask for the recipe! It’s easy, it’s nostalgic, and it’s darn near impossible to resist, so grab your ingredients and whip up some sweet Southern happiness.

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  Best Banana Pudding Ever Recipe

  5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 15 reviews

  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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  Description

  Indulge in the creamy goodness of the Best Banana Pudding Ever. This no-bake dessert features layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and a fluffy pudding mixture that’s sure to please any sweet tooth. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat at home, this Southern classic is a crowd-pleaser.

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  Ingredients

  For the Pudding:

  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix

  For the Whipped Cream:

  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream

  For Assembly:

  • 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

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  Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until fully combined. Add the vanilla pudding mix and whisk for 2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
  2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
  3. Layer the Dessert: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding on top. Crumble a few wafers over the top for garnish if desired. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

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  Notes

  • For best flavor and texture, let the pudding chill overnight.
  • Use firm ripe bananas for clean slices.
  • You can substitute whipped topping for the heavy cream in a pinch, but homemade whipped cream gives it the best taste and texture.