Can you smell this layers of soft, ripe bananas nestled between creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Each spoonful is a delightful mix of textures: silky, sweet, crunchy, and smooth, a dessert that feels like comfort and celebration rolled into one. That’s easy banana pudding recipe, a classic treat that never fails to bring a smile.
Banana pudding isn’t just dessert; it’s nostalgia. It reminds us of family gatherings, church potlucks, and summer afternoons. Simple yet indulgent, it’s the kind of sweet that feels homemade even when it’s easy to prepare.
Why Banana Pudding Is a Beloved Classic
Banana pudding has long been a staple of Southern kitchens, but its charm has spread worldwide. What makes it so good is the perfect balance of flavors: we love it because you get the natural sweetness of bananas, the creaminess of the pudding, and the satisfying crunch of the cookies. Best of all, it requires no fancy techniques, just simple layering.
What makes it so special is its adaptability. Some prefer it warm and baked, others chilled and creamy. You can add a drizzle of caramel, use chocolate wafers, or even top it with meringue. However you serve it, banana pudding is always a crowd-pleaser.
Easy Banana Pudding Recipe
Our Secret to Easy Banana Pudding Recipe: Fresh Bananas & Resting Time
The trick to a truly unforgettable banana pudding lies in two things: ripe bananas and resting time. Perfectly ripe bananas add natural sweetness and aroma, while letting the pudding rest in the fridge allows the wafers to soften slightly, blending all the flavors into one perfect bite.
A creamy and dreamy banana pudding made with layers of fresh bananas, velvety vanilla pudding, crunchy vanilla wafers, and fluffy whipped cream. This no-bake dessert is quick, comforting, and perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or when you crave a sweet hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
1box (3.4 oz / 96 g) Instant vanilla pudding mix
2cups Cold milk
1cup Heavy cream (For whipped cream)
2tbsp Powdered sugar
1tsp Vanilla extract
4ripe Bananas, sliced
1box Vanilla wafers (About 45–50 cookies)
Optional garnish: crushed cookies or caramel drizzle
Instructions
1
Grab a large bowl and whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk until there aren't any lumps. Chill for 5 minutes to set.
2
In a different bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until it looks like soft peaks.
3
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding to make it nice and creamy.
4
In a large glass dish or trifle bowl, start layering: wafers, sliced bananas, pudding mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
5
Top with the remaining whipped cream.
6
Garnish with crushed wafers or caramel drizzle.
7
Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1 Cup
Amount Per Serving
Calories310kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat15g24%
Saturated Fat9g45%
Cholesterol55mg19%
Sodium280mg12%
Potassium450mg13%
Total Carbohydrate42g15%
Dietary Fiber2g8%
Sugars27g
Protein4g8%
Vitamin A 400 IU
Vitamin C 5 mg
Calcium 150 mg
Iron 0.8 mg
Vitamin D 2 IU
Vitamin E 1 IU
Vitamin K 1 mcg
Thiamin 0.05 mg
Riboflavin 0.1 mg
Niacin 0.5 mg
Vitamin B6 0.2 mg
Folate 20 mcg
Vitamin B12 0.4 mcg
Biotin 2 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 0.4 mg
Phosphorus 120 mg
Iodine 2 mcg
Magnesium 25 mg
Zinc 0.5 mg
Selenium 2 mcg
Copper 0.1 mg
Manganese 0.2 mg
Chromium 1 mcg
Molybdenum 3 mcg
Chloride 50 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Banana pudding shines on its own, but you can serve it with fresh berries for added freshness or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for indulgence. For parties, prepare in individual cups for easy serving. If you want an old-fashioned touch, add a baked meringue topping instead of whipped cream.
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Paislee and Roman
Food and Lifestyle Blogger
We're Paislee and Roman, a husband and wife team exploring the world one meal at a time. On our blog, every dish and market becomes a vibrant story. Our mission is to share these flavors and stories with you!