Introduction

Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that never goes out of style. Creamy, sweet, and loaded with banana flavor, it’s a comfort food favorite that brings back memories of family gatherings and potlucks. This recipe for banana pudding is the best you’ll ever make—it’s easy, quick, and loaded with flavors that everyone will love. The combination of instant vanilla pudding, sweetened condensed milk, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers creates a texture that’s both creamy and crunchy. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have the perfect dessert in no time!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or Cool Whip for convenience)
• 4 bananas, sliced
• 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar (if whipping cream from scratch)

Preparation:

Step 1: Mix the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk together for 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Set aside for 5 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once the pudding is set, stir in the can of sweetened condensed milk until completely combined. This will add an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness to the pudding.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

If you’re using heavy whipping cream, beat it in a chilled bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of sugar while whipping. If you’re using Cool Whip, skip this step.

Step 4: Fold in Whipped Cream

Carefully fold the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) into the pudding mixture until smooth and well-incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and stir gently. This will create a fluffy and creamy texture.

Step 5: Layer the Dessert

In a large serving dish, begin layering your ingredients:

1. Start with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
3. Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
4. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of the pudding on top.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften to the perfect texture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, top the pudding with additional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers for extra crunch. If desired, you can also add a dollop of whipped cream to each serving.

Cooking Note:

• Banana Selection: Use ripe, but not overly ripe bananas. They should be yellow with a few brown spots for optimal sweetness and texture.
• Pudding Mix: Make sure to use instant pudding mix, not the cook-and-serve variety, for a quick and easy preparation.
• Chill Time: This dessert gets better the longer it chills. If possible, make it a day ahead to let the flavors blend together perfectly.
• Creamy Option: You can use Cool Whip if you’re short on time, but whipping fresh heavy cream will give you a richer, more authentic taste.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this banana pudding in a large glass bowl for a family-style presentation, or use individual dessert cups for a more elegant look. This recipe is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or family get-togethers. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a unique twist.

Tips:

1. Make-Ahead: Prepare this dessert the night before to let the flavors intensify. It’s a great dish to make ahead for busy schedules.
2. Storage: Store leftover banana pudding in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep for 2-3 days, though the bananas may darken slightly.
3. Prevent Browning: Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering them to prevent browning.
4. Banana Flavor: For extra banana flavor, add a few drops of banana extract to the pudding mixture.
5. Crunchy Texture: Save some crushed vanilla wafers to sprinkle on top just before serving to keep the topping crunchy.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

0 minutes (no-cook recipe)

Total Time:

4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Sugar: 39g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g

Conclusion

This is the ultimate banana pudding recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a delightful mix of creamy and crunchy, sweet and fruity, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this banana pudding is sure to become a household favorite. Don’t lose this recipe—keep it handy and share it with friends and family. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Best Banana Pudding Ever – Don’t Lose this Recipe!

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or Cool Whip for convenience)
• 4 bananas, sliced
• 1 box (12 oz) vanilla wafers
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar (if whipping cream from scratch)

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Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk together for 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Set aside for 5 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once the pudding is set, stir in the can of sweetened condensed milk until completely combined. This will add an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness to the pudding.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

If you’re using heavy whipping cream, beat it in a chilled bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of sugar while whipping. If you’re using Cool Whip, skip this step.

Step 4: Fold in Whipped Cream

Carefully fold the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) into the pudding mixture until smooth and well-incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and stir gently. This will create a fluffy and creamy texture.

Step 5: Layer the Dessert

In a large serving dish, begin layering your ingredients:

1. Start with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
3. Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
4. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of the pudding on top.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften to the perfect texture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, top the pudding with additional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers for extra crunch. If desired, you can also add a dollop of whipped cream to each serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-cook recipe)

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Sodium: 180mg
• Protein: 6g