There’s something deeply nostalgic and comforting about a chilled banana pudding with layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and velvety cream.
It reminds me of childhood potlucks and summer weekends with family.
This version is incredibly easy and turns out rich, fluffy, and irresistibly good every single time.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a classic treat, this banana pudding is the perfect crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Silky, creamy texture – thanks to cream cheese and pudding
Easy to make ahead – best served chilled
Layered flavor and crunch – with cookies and bananas
No baking required – totally fuss-free
Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cream cheese – creates a rich, velvety base
Sweetened condensed milk – for that sweet, creamy depth
Vanilla instant pudding – brings thick, smooth consistency
Cool Whip – makes it airy and fluffy
Vanilla wafers – classic texture and crunch
Ripe bananas – soft, sweet fruitiness in every bite
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use room temperature cream cheese to prevent lumps.
Choose ripe but firm bananas for the best texture.
Chill overnight for deeper flavor and perfect consistency.
For a pretty presentation, use a trifle dish to show the layers.
Add crushed wafers on top just before serving to keep them crunchy.
How to Make Banana Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until completely smooth.
Add sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing until no lumps remain.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
Pour the pudding into the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully combined.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in half of the Cool Whip using a spatula, mixing just until blended.
Set aside the remaining Cool Whip for the topping.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
In a trifle dish or 9×13-inch pan, start with a layer of vanilla wafers.
Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the top.
Repeat layering 1–3 more times, depending on dish size.
Step 5: Finish and Chill
Spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly over the top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top.
Add extra banana slices if desired. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
What to Serve It With
Fresh berries or whipped cream on the side
A glass of iced tea or coffee
Vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent twist
Variations / Substitutions
Chocolate twist – Add chocolate pudding or chocolate chips
Peanut butter version – Swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter
Strawberry banana – Add sliced strawberries in between layers
Homemade whipped cream – Replace Cool Whip with fresh whipped cream
Storage & Leftovers
Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days
Best enjoyed within 24 hours for freshest banana texture
Do not freeze – the bananas and pudding will not thaw well
Add crushed cookies only before serving to keep them crisp
FAQs
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding?
Yes! As long as it’s thick and chilled, it works great.
How ripe should the bananas be?
They should be yellow with minimal spots — soft but not mushy.
Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. It’s even better if made the night before serving.
What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
Use stabilized whipped cream as a substitute.
Will the bananas turn brown?
A little, over time. Layering them within pudding helps slow browning.
Can I use different cookies?
Sure! Shortbread or graham crackers can be fun substitutes.
Is this recipe good for kids?
Absolutely — sweet, soft, and fun to assemble together!
Final Thoughts
This banana pudding is everything I crave in a dessert — creamy, sweet, nostalgic, and so easy to put together.
It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at any gathering, and I always keep a few extra wafers on the side for scooping.
If you want a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that looks impressive and tastes like childhood memories, this recipe delivers every time.
Banana Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until lump-free.
- In another bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Stir pudding into cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
- Fold in half the Cool Whip.
- Layer in a dish: wafers, banana slices, pudding mixture. Repeat 1–3 times.
- Spread remaining Cool Whip on top.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/banana-pudding/
