1. Make the Pudding
Whisk together the pudding mix and milk in a large bowl until thickened. Chill in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to set.
2. Layer the Dessert
In a trifle dish or 9×13 pan, start with a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spread a generous layer of pudding on top. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients.
3. Top It Off
Spread whipped topping over the final layer, smoothing it out evenly. Garnish with crushed cookies, banana slices, or even a drizzle of caramel for flair.
4. Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better), allowing the flavors to blend and the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture.
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding
- Banana ripeness: Use ripe bananas for sweetness but avoid overripe ones that might get mushy.
- Homemade twist: Make a stovetop custard with egg yolks, sugar, and milk for an authentic Southern version.
- Prevent browning: Dip banana slices in lemon juice if you’re prepping far ahead.
- Presentation matters: Use a trifle bowl to show off those beautiful layers.
Fun Variations
- Banana Pudding Pie – Build the layers in a pie crust for sliceable dessert.
- Chocolate Banana Pudding – Add chocolate pudding or drizzle with fudge sauce.
- Peanut Butter Banana Pudding – Stir peanut butter into the pudding for a rich twist.
- Mini Cups – Serve in mason jars or dessert cups for parties.
Why You’ll Love Making This Again and Again
Banana Pudding is more than just dessert—it’s nostalgia in a dish. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and universally loved. One spoonful transports you back to childhood kitchens, family gatherings, and happy moments around the table.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to because it never fails to satisfy. Sweet, creamy, and comforting, Banana Pudding is truly timeless.
Final Thought: If happiness had a flavor, it would taste like Banana Pudding. Creamy, sweet, and layered with love, this Southern classic is proof that the simplest desserts are often the best.