Few desserts are as nostalgic, comforting, and universally loved as Banana Pudding. With layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers, this timeless dessert has earned its place at family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, and Sunday dinners for generations.

Simple to make yet deeply satisfying, banana pudding is the perfect example of how humble ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether served chilled in a big bowl or layered beautifully in individual cups, this dessert always disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Recipe

This banana pudding is everything the classic dessert should be—rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced.

Ultra-creamy texture
Simple, easy-to-find ingredients
No baking required

Perfect make-ahead dessert
Loved by kids and adults
Customizable to your taste

If you’re looking for a foolproof dessert that never goes out of style, banana pudding is it.

What Is Banana Pudding?

Banana pudding is a layered dessert traditionally made with vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and vanilla wafers. Over time, the wafers soften as they absorb moisture from the pudding, creating a cake-like texture that blends beautifully with the creamy layers.

Depending on the version, banana pudding can be:

Simple and no-bake
Made with homemade custard
Topped with whipped cream or meringue

Served chilled or lightly warmed

This recipe focuses on the classic creamy version most people know and love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses classic, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Main Ingredients

Ripe bananas
Vanilla wafers
Milk

Vanilla pudding mix or homemade pudding

For the Creamy Layer

Sweetened condensed milk
Whipped topping or heavy cream

Vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins

Cream cheese (for extra richness)
Banana extract (for stronger banana flavor)

Caramel drizzle
Crushed cookies for topping

Choosing the Best Bananas for Banana Pudding

Bananas play a starring role, so ripeness matters.

Ideal Bananas

Yellow with a few brown spots
Sweet but still firm
Easy to slice

Avoid

Green bananas (not sweet enough)
Overly mushy bananas (can turn watery)

Properly ripe bananas give the best flavor and texture.

How to Make Classic Banana Pudding (Step by Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

Whisk the pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Let it set for a few minutes.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with vanilla extract. Fold in whipped topping or freshly whipped cream until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Gently fold the prepared pudding into the cream mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Slice the Bananas

Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

In a serving dish:

Vanilla wafers

Banana slices
Creamy pudding mixture

Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.

Step 6: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow flavors to meld.

Texture and Flavor Profile

Classic banana pudding is:

Smooth and creamy

Lightly sweet
Soft with tender cookie layers
Fresh and comforting

As it chills, the wafers soften and become cake-like, creating that signature banana pudding texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Banana Pudding

Chill long enough for the wafers to soften
Slice bananas right before layering

Use full-fat milk for best creaminess
Don’t overmix the pudding and cream
Cover tightly to prevent banana browning

Homemade Pudding vs Instant Pudding

Both options work well, depending on your preference.

Instant Pudding

Quick and convenient
Consistent results

Ideal for no-bake versions

Homemade Custard

Richer flavor
More traditional

Requires stovetop cooking

This recipe is written for convenience, but either option can be used.

Banana Pudding Variations to Try

Southern-Style Banana Pudding

Top with whipped cream or meringue and lightly brown the top.

Banana Pudding with Cream Cheese

Add softened cream cheese to the creamy layer for extra richness.

Chocolate Banana Pudding

Use chocolate pudding or add chocolate chips.

Caramel Banana Pudding

Drizzle caramel sauce between layers.

Individual Banana Pudding Cups

Perfect for parties and portion control.

How Long Does Banana Pudding Last?

Refrigerator Storage

Store covered for up to 3 days
Best texture within the first 48 hours

After several days, bananas may darken and the dessert may become too soft.

Can You Make Banana Pudding Ahead of Time?

Yes—banana pudding is actually better when made ahead.

Make it the night before serving

Allows flavors to blend
Creates perfect softened wafers

If making more than a day ahead, add bananas closer to serving time.

How to Prevent Bananas from Turning Brown

Slice bananas just before assembling
Lightly brush slices with lemon juice (optional)
Make sure bananas are fully covered by pudding

These steps help keep the dessert looking fresh.

What to Serve with Banana Pudding

Banana pudding pairs well with:

Fresh berries

Coffee or tea
Barbecue or comfort-food meals
Holiday dessert spreads

It’s light enough to enjoy after hearty meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cookies?

Yes—shortbread cookies or graham crackers work well.

Can I freeze banana pudding?

Freezing is not recommended; texture changes after thawing.

Is banana pudding gluten-free?

Use gluten-free vanilla cookies to make it gluten-free.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Use unsweetened whipped cream and slightly less condensed milk.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Banana pudding is ideal for:

Family gatherings
Potlucks
Holidays

BBQs and cookouts
Everyday desserts

It’s simple, comforting, and always a hit.

Final Thoughts

This classic Banana Pudding is proof that timeless recipes never go out of style. Creamy, sweet, and layered with love, it’s a dessert that brings people together and disappears fast.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, banana pudding is one of those recipes that always feels like home.

Banana Pudding (Classic, Creamy & Always a Crowd Favorite)

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Instructions

Stovetop Method (Traditional):

Make custard: In a saucepan, whisk sugar, flour, and salt. Whisk in egg yolks and milk until smooth.
Cook: Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (~8–10 min).

Finish: Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla. Cool slightly (cover with plastic wrap directly on surface to prevent skin).

Layer pudding:

In a 2-qt glass dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers. Top with banana slices. Spoon half the custard over top. Repeat layers.
Top: Finish with wafers and/or bananas.

Choose your topping:

Whipped cream: Spread over top; chill 4+ hours.
Meringue (optional): Beat egg whites with 2 tbsp sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over warm pudding. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 min until golden.

💡 Pro Tips:
– Use slightly underripe bananas to prevent browning.
– Assemble just before serving if possible—bananas soften over time.
– For extra flavor, add a splash of rum or almond extract to custard!

Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving, serves 8):