Introduction

Banana pudding is a classic, comforting dessert that combines creamy layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for gatherings or a sweet family snack.

The image shows a tall glass trifle bowl filled with five visible layers of a banana pudding dessert. The bottom layer is golden-brown round vanilla wafers, topped with a layer of creamy light yellow pudding. Above that, there is a layer of banana slices, then another layer of wafers, pudding, banana slices, wafers, and pudding repetitively arranged, creating alternating golden-brown and creamy pale yellow layers. The top layer is a thick, fluffy white whipped cream, sprinkled with crushed wafers and garnished with whole banana slices and a single whole vanilla wafer on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface surrounded by whole vanilla wafers and bananas in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (5.1 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix (6 serving size)
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
5 ripe bananas
1 (11 ounce) package vanilla wafers

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer to beat until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
Step 2: Add the instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until everything is well combined and thickened.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Reserve 2½ cups of the whipped cream for topping. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the pudding mixture to keep it light and airy.
Step 5: Line the bottom of a glass trifle bowl or serving dish with a layer of vanilla wafers. Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas, making sure they are fully covered. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used up.
Step 6: Finish by spreading the reserved whipped cream on top. Cover the pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
Step 7: Before serving, garnish with extra banana slices or crumbled vanilla wafers if desired for added texture and visual appeal.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try substituting half the whole milk with evaporated milk or using flavored pudding mix like banana or butterscotch.
If you prefer a firmer texture, chill the pudding mixture before folding in the whipped cream.
Use slightly underripe bananas to avoid browning too quickly and maintain a fresh appearance.
To add crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or toffee bits between the layers.

Storage

Store banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The wafers will continue to soften over time, so for best texture, enjoy within the first day or two. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled.

How to Serve

A tall clear glass bowl filled with a layered banana pudding dessert, showing about five layers. Starting with a bottom layer of light golden crushed cookies mixed with pale cream pudding, followed by a creamy yellow pudding layer. Next there is a layer of sliced bananas, then another smooth pudding layer, with more crushed cookies underneath. The top layer is thick white whipped cream with crushed cookie pieces sprinkled over and a whole golden cookie along with banana slices as garnish. The dessert sits on a white marbled surface with a jar of more cookies in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes, banana pudding actually benefits from resting in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight, which helps the flavors meld and softens the wafers for a creamy texture.

What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?

If vanilla wafers aren’t available, try using graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or ladyfingers as alternatives. Each will add a slightly different but delicious texture and flavor.

Creamy Banana Pudding Delight Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 88 reviews

This classic Banana Pudding recipe combines creamy layers of vanilla pudding, whipped cream, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers for a luscious, comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. The smooth cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk mixture provides richness while the whipped cream adds lightness, making it an irresistible treat when chilled.

Author: Ruby
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding Mixture

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (5.1 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix (6 serving size)
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream

3 cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar

For Assembly

5 ripe bananas
1 (11 ounce) package vanilla wafers

Instructions

Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy and smooth, ensuring that the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
Add Pudding Mix and Milk: To the cream cheese mixture, add the instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Continue beating with the hand mixer until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture starts to thicken.
Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using a hand mixer until soft peaks begin to form. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks are achieved, but be careful not to overbeat.
Fold Whipped Cream into Pudding: Reserve 2½ cups of the whipped cream for the topping. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a spatula to keep it light and airy without deflating the whipped cream.
Layer the Ingredients: In a large glass trifle bowl or similar dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top, followed by a layer of the pudding mixture, making sure the bananas are fully covered. Repeat these layers until all ingredients have been used, finishing with a layer of pudding mixture.
Top and Chill: Spread the reserved whipped cream evenly over the top layer of pudding. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the pudding with additional banana slices or crumbled vanilla wafers for an attractive presentation and added texture if desired.

Notes

For best results, use ripe bananas that are slightly soft but not overly mushy.
The dessert improves in flavor after chilling overnight, so prepare in advance if possible.
You can substitute low-fat milk or use a sugar substitute if you want to reduce calories or sugar.
Make sure to fold the whipped cream gently into the pudding to keep it light and fluffy.
For a decorative touch, add some toasted coconut or chocolate shavings on top.

Keywords: banana pudding, vanilla pudding, cream cheese dessert, no-bake dessert, layered pudding dessert, vanilla wafer dessert, southern dessert