Description
This classic American banana pudding recipe is a creamy, indulgent no-bake dessert featuring layers of vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion that combines smooth, rich flavors with a delightful texture contrast. Easy to prepare and best served after overnight chilling, it’s a Southern favorite that delights family and friends.
Ingredients
Pudding Mixture
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups cold water
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
Whipped Cream
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
Layers
- 1 (12-ounce) box vanilla wafers
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until smooth. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is well blended and begins to thicken. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pudding mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing it to set and develop flavor.
- Whip the cream: While the pudding sets, pour the heavy whipping cream into a separate chilled bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream until stiff peaks form—this means the cream holds firm peaks when the beaters are lifted.
- Combine pudding and whipped cream: Gently fold the stiff whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture using a spatula. Be careful to fold rather than stir vigorously to maintain the light and airy texture of the mixture until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the layers: In a 9×13-inch dish or a large trifle bowl, create layers by first placing a single layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, and then spooning over a layer of the pudding and whipped cream mixture. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a final layer of pudding.
- Garnish and chill: Crush a few vanilla wafers and sprinkle them evenly over the top layer of pudding to add texture and visual appeal. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving, allowing all flavors to meld together and the dessert to firm up.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve the banana pudding cold, using a large spoon to scoop out portions ensuring a balance of pudding, banana, and wafer in every bite.
Notes
- For the best flavor and texture, prepare the pudding the day before and chill overnight.
- You can substitute store-bought whipped topping for the heavy whipping cream if desired for convenience.
- Use firm, ripe bananas to minimize browning and maintain fresh flavor and appearance.
- Ensure the whipped cream is whipped to stiff peaks to maintain the light and fluffy texture of the pudding mixture.