Description
This classic Southern Banana Pudding is a luscious layered dessert featuring creamy vanilla pudding, ripe banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers. No baking required, it comes together easily and chills to a dreamy, fluffy texture perfect for family gatherings or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Base
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
Whipped Cream
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
Assembly
- 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafer cookies
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
- Optional garnish: crushed vanilla wafers and additional banana slices
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water until well combined. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Whip the cream: While the pudding chills, beat the heavy whipping cream in a separate chilled bowl using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream holds its shape firmly.
- Combine pudding and cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding base with a spatula, mixing carefully to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the pudding layers: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, begin with a layer of vanilla wafer cookies. Top with a layer of banana slices, then spread a layer of the pudding mixture over them. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of pudding on top.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the assembled banana pudding for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, garnish with crushed vanilla wafers and extra banana slices for added texture and visual appeal. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture or substitute with banana-flavored pudding mix.
- Best enjoyed within 1–2 days to prevent bananas from browning and to maintain freshness.
- You can also serve this dessert in individual cups for convenient, portable servings.
