Description
This Best Banana Pudding Ever recipe is a creamy, dreamy Southern classic layered with rich vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers. No baking required—just pure comfort in every chilled, spoonful bite.
Ingredients
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1 box (5.1 oz / 144g) instant vanilla pudding mix
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2 cups cold whole milk
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1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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3 cups heavy whipping cream
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1 box Nilla wafers (or your favorite vanilla cookies)
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4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
Instructions
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Make the Pudding Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to set slightly. -
Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully incorporated and fluffy. -
Assemble the Pudding:
In a trifle dish or 9×13-inch baking dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding mixture.
Repeat layers, ending with pudding on top. Decorate with extra cookies and banana slices if desired. -
Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
Serve cold with a spoonful of nostalgia.
Notes
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To prevent bananas from browning, lightly toss slices in lemon juice before layering.
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For a firmer set, refrigerate overnight.
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Use stabilized whipped cream if preparing more than a day in advance.
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Crumble cookies on top for added texture before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layering / Chilling
- Cuisine: American