Banana pudding is a timeless dessert that has become a staple in Southern kitchens, cherished for its creamy texture, sweet banana flavor, and nostalgic appeal. This indulgent treat layers fresh bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers to create a satisfying dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just craving a sweet snack, banana pudding is always a crowd-pleaser.
The base of pudding is a rich, homemade vanilla pudding made with milk, eggs, sugar, and a touch of vanilla. The smooth, velvety custard is the perfect complement to the sweet, ripe bananas, which provide a soft, tropical flavor. Vanilla wafers are traditionally used in banana pudding to add a light crunch and soak up the pudding’s richness. As the layers meld together, the wafers soften and absorb the flavors, becoming a delicious part of the dessert’s texture.
One of the most charming aspects of banana pudding is its versatility. While traditional recipes often call for a simple layer of banana slices, custard, and cookies, there are plenty of variations. Some people like to add whipped cream on top for extra lightness, or even a meringue layer that’s lightly browned in the oven. For a more decadent version, you can swap in chocolate pudding or add a few chocolate chips for a twist on the classic.
Banana pudding is often served in a large dish for family-style gatherings, but it can also be made in individual cups for a more elegant presentation. This dessert is perfect for warm weather but can be enjoyed year-round, especially when bananas are in season.
Whether you’re making it from scratch or using a shortcut with store-bought ingredients, banana pudding remains a beloved dessert that brings warmth and joy with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 package vanilla instant pudding mix 3.4 oz/96g size
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping thawed
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies crushed
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Fold in the whipped topping until well combined and smooth.
- In serving dishes, layer sliced bananas and vanilla wafer cookies. Pour the pudding over the layers.
- Top with additional whipped topping and a few crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
- Chill the banana pudding in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Nutrition
I tried making this but it didn’t turn out like the picture. The pudding was runny. I think I messed up somewhere. Not sure if I’ll try again.
This banana pudding was a hit at my family gathering! So easy to make and delicious. Will definitely be making it again!
This banana pudding is a game changer! So easy and tastes just like grandma used to make. 😍
I can’t believe how easy this recipe is! I never thought I could make something that tastes so good at home. Thanks for sharing! 😋
The whipped topping saved it. Without that step it would be too sweet and flat. I did add extra banana slices on top and it was perfect.
Is there a way to make this without the vanilla pudding mix? Seems too artificial.
I tried making this, but the pudding came out too runny. I dont think I whisked it long enough.
So good!! My kids ate it all in like 10 minutes 😂
Just okay. I’ve had better banana puddings but it was a nice dessert for a lunch.
I followed it pretty much exactly, but I used slightly less milk and it still turned out great. Would definitely make again for potlucks.
I tried this once and it came out kinda runny even tho I did the 2 mins—maybe my bananas were too juicy? Still good though. Would be nice if it said like “don’t use too ripe bananas” lol.
Glad it worked for you! I love that this is such an easy potluck dessert—no baking drama. 😄 I bet slightly less milk just makes it a touch thicker.
I thought vanilla wafers were for ice cream sundaes? Can someone explain?
Vanilla wafers are great for banana pudding! They give it a nice crunch. Ice cream sundaes are just one way to use them. Trust me, you’ll love it!
I always thought they were for ice cream too! Just like how you can use potatoes in different dishes – it’s all about creativity, right?
OMG this was so scrumptious! 😍 I can’t stop eating it!
My kids loved it! But I accidentally used strawberry pudding instead of vanilla 🤦♂️ Still good tho!
Way too sweet for me. Also I think I accidentally bought the wrong pudding size—used 5 oz instead of 3.4 oz. It still worked but I wouldn’t repeat.
This pudding reminds me of mom’s old recipes. Brings back memories!
This seems too easy. Is it really good? I thought banana pudding needed more cooking or something, not just mixing.
I love banana pudding too! My grandma used to make it for all our family gatherings. Can’t wait to try this recipe!
Banana and vanilla wafers? Can’t go wrong! My kids devoured this in minutes. Thank you!
I used a little less milk because my pudding mix seemed thicker, and it still worked. Super creamy—everyone went back for seconds.
Banana pudding is not supposed to be made like this! My grandma’s recipe is the best and has secret ingredients.
Nah, this isn’t right. Banana pudding should have like, real ingredients. And who uses instant pudding? No thanks!
I think this recipe sounds pretty good! But yeah, my grandma’s banana pudding has some special spices that makes it the best. Just saying!
Easy peasy! I love how quick this is to make. Perfect for summer BBQs.
Wow, so gud! 😋 I think I ate half the bowl myself. More please!
Haha, glad you loved it! I always end up eating more than I should too. 😊
It was just ok for me. I was expecting more flavor, maybe add some chocolate? 🍫
Why is everyone obsessed with bananas? 🤔 But this was not bad, I had to try it.
I dunno, I think bananas are overrated. But this recipe? Not too shabby! 😕
Bananas are awesome! They make everything better. This pudding sounds great! 🍌
I’m skeptical about “instant” pudding, but honestly it worked. The bananas got a little softer after chilling, which I liked. Tastes like classic banana pudding.
Totally get your skepticism, but I’ve had the same experience—instant pudding does thicken up nicely once it chills. The bananas getting softer is a win in my book too.
The bananas got soggy too fast. Not a fan. Will not make again.
I don’t know. Seems too easy. Is it really that good? How does it taste?
OMG, this banana pudding is so good! I made it for my family, and they loved it!
This was so easy to make! My kids loved it, thank you!
Banana pudding forever! Can’t wait to make this for the family gathering!
I followed it to a T and it’s okay… kinda sweet. Would maybe add a pinch of salt or extra banana next time to balance.
tasted just like my grandma’s!! so nostalgic and delicious.
So glad to hear that! There’s something magical about food memories. 🍌✨
That’s nice, but doesn’t it taste a bit artificial with the instant pudding? Homemade is always better!
I’m not usually a dessert person, but this was easy and tasted really light. Loved the creamy texture and crunch from the cookies.
Banana pudding?? More like banana mush! My kids wouldn’t eat it. 😩
easy
This recipe is amazing! We devoured it in no time. Perfect balance of flavors.
I totally agree! This recipe is a family favorite for sure, especially during summer.
Sounds good but isn’t pudding just like jello? I don’t know about this one…
Hmm, does it really need to chill for an hour? I’m too impatient!
Pretty easy to make, but way too sweet for my taste. I think I’ll cut back on the sugar next time.
I totally agree! I found it a bit too sweet as well. Cutting back on the sugar is a great idea.
Nah, it needs the sugar! That’s what makes it taste good. Why mess with a classic?
I thought the wafers would get soggy but they held up! Next time I’ll add some chocolate chips.
Glad to hear the wafers stayed crunchy! Adding chocolate chips sounds yummy. I might try that next time too!
Why do they call it pudding? It ain’t like real pudding… but still kinda yummy…
The instructions say “fold in whipped topping until smooth” but mine stayed kinda streaky—still tasted fine, just not as pretty.
I tried this recipe, but I forgot the bananas… It was still pretty good tho!
Glad it still turned out good! Bananas are just an added bonus, right?
It’s way too sweet for me. Next time, I’ll cut back on the sugar.
Made this for a family get-together and it was gone fast. The 2 minutes whisking really helps—nice and thick. Super easy, and the layers look fancy even though it’s not.
I followed the steps but mine came out kinda runny even after chilling. Maybe my milk was too warm when I whisked? The flavor was good though.
Tasted okay but kinda wished I added more bananas. I like banana more than pudding.
Can you even call this pudding? Seems like a cheat to me.
Come on! It’s easy and fast. Not every dessert has to be complicated to be good!
I think it’s a great spin on traditional pudding! Everyone has their own tastes, but it’s tasty to me!
Could use more banana flavor. I used bananas that were a little green and maybe that’s on me, but next time I’ll pick extra ripe ones.
I didn’t have whipped topping, so I used cool whip instead. Still turned out good!
Cool Whip works great! I always use it too. 😊
Banana pudding need more bananas in it, my opinion. Used 4 bananas and it was better!
I totally agree! More bananas makes it creamier and tastier. Great tip!
The instructions are straightforward, but I wish it said how many layers to do. I just winged it and mine looked a bit messy, lol.
Totally get that—I always want a clear “do X layers” guide. I’m glad it’s still forgiving though. Mine gets messy if I don’t chill long enough, so maybe that’s why yours looked off? 😄
I mean… layering is basically to your heart’s content lol. But yeah the recipe’s a little vague. I did like 2 banana layers then cookies and pudding—worked fine. Next time try chilling before serving so it sets up.
This recipe is legit. So quick! Bananas decrease in quality fast tho.
I dunno about using instant pudding. It just doesn’t taste as good as homemade.
Yum! I added some chocolate chips and it was divine! 😍
Pretty good, but mine got a little runny even after chilling. Maybe my milk wasn’t cold enough or I didn’t whisk the full 2 minutes.
Happened to me too once—my milk was probably not cold. I now chill the milk + bowl for a bit and whisk closer to 2 1/2 minutes. Also make sure the pudding mix is fully dissolved before you fold in the whipped topping.
Try less milk? I’ve made this w/ regular pudding and it always set fast. Maybe your bananas were extra juicy and thinned it. Next time pat them dry or slice and layer quickly. Also… yeah 2 minutes feels short, lol.
This was super easy and honestly tastes like classic banana pudding. The 2 minutes of whisking matters—mine thickened nicely. I chilled it longer (overnight) and it was even better.
I made it for a family get-together and everyone went back for seconds. The banana + vanilla wafers combo is unbeatable.
Yes! That banana + vanilla wafers combo is basically perfection. 😍 I’m not even surprised everyone went back for seconds.
Not gonna lie, I hate instant pudding but this one surprised me. The whipped topping made it feel lighter and the bananas were perfect with the wafers.
I made this with banana pudding mix instead of vanilla instant—oops—but now my friends are asking for the recipe anyway lol. It’s good, but not the same.
Mine turned out a bit runny even after chilling—probably I didn’t whisk long enough. Still tasty though, just more like a banana pudding drink situation 😅
Ugh, I’m sorry! But honestly “banana pudding drink” sounds hilarious 😅 I agree—2 minutes of whisking can make a big difference. Next time, try whisking the pudding + milk until it really coats the whisk and looks noticeably thicker before folding in the whipped topping.
This is dangerously easy. The pudding thickened exactly how the recipe said, and the layers tasted like a classic banana pudding without the hassle.
Why use instant pudding? It can’t be as good as the homemade stuff. Just saying.
This sounds super easy! Can’t wait to try it out and impress my friends.
Nope, too sweet for me. Also instant pudding mix has a weird aftertaste, but my nephew loved it. Different palates I guess.
Totally get it—instant pudding can come across really sweet and “chemical” sometimes. I’ve noticed the aftertaste too. If you ever try it again, you could use a less-sweet pudding (or even make your own custard) and cut back the wafer layers to balance it out. Glad your nephew still enjoyed it though!
Too sweet for me personally, especially with the whipped topping. I think I’d cut the cookie amount in half next time.
Totally get that—this one can come out pretty sweet with 1 full package pudding plus a whole cup of whipped topping. Cutting the cookies in half sounds like an easy fix.
This is such a classic comfort dessert. The pudding thickened perfectly after whisking, and the layers made it feel way fancier than it is.
Only gave it 4 stars because I had to chill longer than 1 hour. After about 2 hours it finally set perfectly. Worth it.
Totally agree—mine also took closer to 2 hours before it was truly set. I usually plan for the longer chill now, and then it’s perfect. Definitely worth it!
Looks delicious on paper, but I’m skeptical about how firm it gets with just instant pudding + whipped topping. Does it hold up after a day in the fridge?
Mine turned out a bit runny even after chilling, so I think I maybe didn’t whisk long enough. Still yummy though, just more like a banana pudding drink.
Pretty good! I used slightly more bananas and it needed a touch more wafer crumbs for texture. Still creamy and not too sweet.
Thanks! I’m glad it stayed creamy without getting overly sweet. A little extra banana + extra wafer crumbs totally makes sense for texture—will try that next time.
Uh, I don’t really get why you need to whisk 2 minutes like that. I skipped it and it was still thick. Maybe I got lucky lol.
Totally fair—if it thickened for you anyway, you probably didn’t “miss” it as much as you think. Whisking 2 minutes just helps the pudding mix hydrate faster and smooth out lumps, but different brands/mix conditions can get it thick sooner. If it was already thick, I’d call that a win 😄
Instant pudding is cheating (jk kinda). Still, it turned out tasty and I didn’t have to deal with any custard nonsense.
Honestly, same 😂 Instant pudding is the easiest way to get that creamy texture without the custard stress. This looks like the perfect sweet, especially with the banana + vanilla wafers.
Honestly, one hour is not enough. The cookies were still kind of crunchy. After like 3 hours it finally felt like real banana pudding.
I tried it with chocolate wafers once and it was… weirdly good? Kinda like cookies-and-cream vibes.