Best Banana Pudding Recipe

Description

This Best Banana Pudding is a creamy, dreamy Southern-style dessert layered with fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and a rich, velvety vanilla pudding. Topped with whipped cream, it’s a classic comfort food that brings nostalgia and joy in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you’re craving something sweet yet refreshing.

Ingredients for Best Banana Pudding

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 ½ cups cold water

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups heavy whipping cream (or Cool Whip for shortcut)

• 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together condensed milk, cold water, and pudding mix until smooth. Chill for at least 5 minutes.

2. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the pudding mixture.

3. In a trifle dish or glass pan, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.

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

5. Just before serving, top with extra banana slices and crushed wafers for garnish.

Notes

• Use ripe but firm bananas (not overly soft) for best texture.

• If making ahead, toss banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.

• Chill at least 4 hours so the wafers soften into a cake-like texture.

Tips

• Swap vanilla wafers with graham crackers or ladyfingers for a twist.

• For extra richness, add a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding.

• Use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream for convenience.

• Garnish with caramel drizzle or toasted coconut for flair.

Servings

• Serves: 10–12 people

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 4+ hours

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. for 12 servings)

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 4g

• Carbohydrates: 39g

• Fat: 16g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 26g

• Sodium: 220mg

Health Benefits

• Bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber.

• Milk & cream offer calcium for bone health.

• Moderation: While rich and sweet, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Q & A

Q1: Can I make banana pudding the night before?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better when chilled overnight.

Q2: How long does banana pudding last?
Stored in the fridge, it lasts about 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze banana pudding?
Not recommended—bananas turn mushy and the texture separates.

Q4: What’s the best dish to serve it in?
A trifle dish for presentation, but a 9×13 glass dish works perfectly too.

Q5: How to keep bananas from turning brown?
Brush slices lightly with lemon juice or use them just before serving.