There’s nothing quite like a homemade dessert that brings both comfort and joy with every spoonful. Today, I’m sharing my all-time favorite: The Best Banana Pudding Recipe. I can confidently say this is the creamiest, dreamiest banana pudding I’ve ever made, and I’ll bet it’ll be the best you’ve ever tasted too! It’s one of those desserts that just hits the spot every single time.
Let me take you through the steps to create this crowd-pleasing classic that combines layers of vanilla wafers, sweet bananas, and a rich, creamy pudding that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? It’s super easy to make!
Ingredients
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or the same amount of sweetened whipped cream)
How to Make Banana Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Cookies and Bananas
Grab a 13×9-inch dish and line the bottom with one bag of Vanilla Wafers. Spread the banana slices evenly on top of the cookies. This creates the perfect base layer for your pudding!
Step 2: Prepare the Pudding
In a mixing bowl, pour in your 2 cups of milk and add the French Vanilla pudding mix. Blend it well using a handheld electric mixer until it thickens slightly and is smooth.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the sweetened condensed milk. Mix this together until it’s smooth and creamy—this adds that irresistible richness to your banana pudding.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Now, gently fold the whipped topping (or whipped cream) into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time with this step to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
Step 5: Combine the Layers
Once the whipped topping is blended in, mix the cream cheese mixture with the prepared pudding. Stir everything together until fully combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Pudding
Pour this creamy mixture over the cookie and banana layer in your dish. Then, cover the top with the remaining Vanilla Wafers. Pop it in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to serve. Trust me, the magic happens while it chills!
Details and Nutritional Information
Details:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None (No-bake)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Nutrition:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 129
- Sugar: 14g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
Helpful Tips
- Use ripe but firm bananas: Make sure the bananas are just ripe enough—yellow with a few brown spots—so they’re sweet but still hold their shape.
- Soften the cream cheese: Let your cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour: The pudding tastes best after it’s had time to chill and set in the fridge. The longer, the better!
Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers, and you’ll have a gluten-free banana pudding that tastes just as amazing!
- Dairy-free version: Substitute the cream cheese, milk, and whipped topping with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, or a plant-based cream cheese.
- Add a twist: For a fun twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the bananas before layering them or fold in crushed cookies or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding Recipe
Can I make this banana pudding ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this dessert gets better the longer it sits. You can make it up to a day in advance—just be sure to store it in the fridge.
How long does it last in the refrigerator?
Banana pudding will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just be aware that the bananas may brown slightly over time, though the taste will still be delicious!
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade, just whip up about 1 ½ cups of heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla, and fold it into the mixture.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store your banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture may change once thawed.
More Delicious Dessert Recipes
There you have it—The Best Banana Pudding recipe Ever! Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just because, this recipe will never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to give it a try. Let me know in the comments how it turns out!
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The Best Banana Pudding Ever
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Best Banana Pudding Ever is a creamy, layered dessert made with vanilla wafers, bananas, and a rich pudding mix. This easy-to-make, no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving something sweet, this banana pudding is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equal amount sweetened whipped cream)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch dish with one bag of Vanilla Wafers and layer sliced bananas on top.
- Make the Pudding: In a bowl, combine milk and pudding mix. Blend with an electric mixer until smooth and thickened.
- Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, creamy blend.
- Combine: Stir the cream cheese mixture into the pudding until well combined.
- Assemble: Pour the pudding mixture over the cookie and banana layers, and top with the remaining wafers.
- Chill: Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the pudding to set and chill for at least one hour.
Notes
- This recipe works best when made a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For a gluten-free version, simply substitute gluten-free vanilla wafers.
- Keep in mind that bananas may brown slightly over time, but the taste will still be fantastic!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None (No-bake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 129
- Sugar: 14g
- Cholesterol: 7mg