Banana pudding is the heart of Southern comfort desserts. With its layers of silky vanilla pudding, sweet ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers, it delivers pure nostalgia in every bite. This layered banana pudding dessert adds a modern, creamy twist by folding whipped cream into the pudding, creating an ultra-light, airy texture while staying true to the traditional flavors we all love.
Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, holidays, or an easy make-ahead dessert, this no-bake banana pudding is simple, elegant, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (11 oz) vanilla wafer cookies
(or ladyfinger cookies for a slightly firmer texture)
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Toasted coconut
- Chocolate shavings
- Extra banana slices
Equipment Needed
- Medium mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×9-inch baking dish or trifle bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract if using. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the whipped cream.
Tip: For extra richness, substitute half of the milk with half-and-half.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Whipped Mixture
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding until fully combined. This creates a light, fluffy pudding layer that sets this recipe apart.
Step 3: Slice the Bananas
Peel and slice the bananas into thin, even rounds. If desired, lightly brush with lemon juice to slow browning, though this is optional.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- Spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom of your dish.
- Add a layer of vanilla wafer cookies, breaking them to fit if needed.
- Top with a single layer of banana slices.
- Repeat the layers—pudding, cookies, bananas—until all ingredients are used.
- Finish with a generous layer of pudding on top.
Pro Tip: Gently press the cookies into the pudding so they soften without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Chill the Dessert
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, garnish with crushed wafers, chocolate shavings, or toasted coconut. Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Extra twist: Drizzle caramel sauce or sprinkle cinnamon on top for a subtle flavor upgrade.
Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture.
- The whipped-cream pudding blend keeps the dessert light and not overly sweet.
- For individual servings, layer in mason jars or dessert cups.
- This dessert tastes even better the next day as the flavors fully develop.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding
This banana pudding layered dessert is creamy, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make. It honors the Southern classic while adding a modern, fluffy twist that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Whether served at a holiday table or a casual family dinner, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that always disappears fast.
Simple, timeless, and irresistibly creamy—this banana pudding is comfort dessert perfection.
