Banana Pudding

Banana pudding is one of those desserts that feels right at any time of year. Creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crisp vanilla wafers come together in layers, and after a little time in the refrigerator, the cookies soften and soak up some of the pudding. The result is sweet, creamy, and full of banana flavor.

It is simple to put together and works well for family dinners, holidays, potlucks, or whenever you want an easy dessert that can be made ahead.

Ingredients

• 1 package (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups cold milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1 package (11 oz) vanilla wafers

How to Make Banana Pudding

Prepare the Pudding

In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then whisk until smooth.

Let the pudding sit for a few minutes so it can become thick and creamy.

Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture. Take your time with this step so the mixture stays light and fluffy.

Layer the Dessert

Choose a large serving dish or trifle bowl. Start with a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.

Add a layer of sliced bananas, spreading them evenly over the cookies. Spoon some of the pudding mixture over the bananas and smooth it out.

Repeat the layers until all the ingredients have been used. Finish with a layer of pudding and a few vanilla wafers or banana slices on top.

Chill

Cover the banana pudding and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours. For an even softer texture and deeper flavor, you can let it chill overnight.

Tips for Good Banana Pudding

Use bananas that are ripe but still firm. Very soft bananas can become mushy after sitting in the pudding.

Old-fashioned vanilla wafers work especially well because they soften as the dessert chills while still keeping some texture.

For the best consistency, make sure the pudding has thickened before folding in the whipped topping.

If you are preparing the dessert ahead of time, add the decorative banana slices on top shortly before serving so they look fresh.

How to Serve

Serve banana pudding cold, straight from the refrigerator. Scoop down through the layers so each serving gets pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers.

It makes a great dessert for family meals, potlucks, cookouts, and holiday gatherings.

How to Store Banana Pudding

Cover the banana pudding and keep it refrigerated. It is best enjoyed within 2–3 days. The vanilla wafers will continue to soften as the pudding sits, which gives the dessert its familiar soft texture.

For the best appearance, add fresh banana slices just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Banana pudding is a simple dessert, but the combination of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and softened vanilla wafers makes it especially satisfying. It can be prepared ahead of time, served cold, and easily made in a large dish when you are feeding a crowd.