Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Very Best Banana Pudding EVER is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. The fluffy, creamy pudding is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of Nilla Wafers. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers a decadent result. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday meal, or just craving a nostalgic dessert, this banana pudding fits the bill. The best part? It’s a no-bake recipe, meaning you can make it ahead of time and let it chill until you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients

2½ cups heavy whipping cream
¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese, softened
14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
5 oz box instant banana pudding mix (dry)
1 cup 2% or whole milk
11 oz box Nilla Wafers
About 8 medium bananas, sliced (preferably just ripe)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a stand mixer, whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
In the same bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth.
Add the dry pudding mix, then gradually mix in the milk until fully combined.
Fold in 2/3 of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until no streaks remain.
Layer Nilla Wafers at the bottom of the prepared dish, followed by banana slices, and half of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers.
Top with the remaining whipped cream.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Before serving, garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 12 servings
Total Time: 20 minutes to prepare, plus 8 hours of chilling time

Variations

Fruit Substitutes: While bananas are traditional, you can add other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a twist.
Cookie Swap: If you’re not a fan of Nilla Wafers, you can use shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or even Chessman cookies for a different texture and flavor.
Vegan Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap out the cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk for plant-based alternatives like coconut cream, almond milk, and dairy-free cream cheese.
Chocolate Twist: For a chocolate version, add a layer of chocolate pudding or sprinkle chocolate chips between the banana and pudding layers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Banana pudding is typically served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Just make sure it’s kept cool if you need to transport it.

FAQs

1. Can I use non-dairy whipped cream for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy whipped cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.

2. How long should I let the pudding chill?

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the pudding for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead dessert. Just prepare it the day before and let it chill in the fridge overnight.

4. Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh?

Fresh bananas are preferred for the best texture, but you can use frozen bananas in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them before using.

5. Can I substitute the Nilla Wafers with something else?

Yes, you can substitute Nilla Wafers with other cookies like shortbread, vanilla wafers, or even graham crackers.

6. Can I add more banana layers?

Absolutely! If you love bananas, feel free to add extra banana slices between the layers for a stronger banana flavor.

7. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dessert gluten-free, use gluten-free cookies, such as gluten-free vanilla wafers or gluten-free shortbread.

8. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, Cool Whip or other store-bought whipped toppings can be used if you prefer a shortcut.

9. How do I know when the pudding mixture is thick enough?

The pudding mixture should be thick and smooth. It will thicken further once it chills in the refrigerator.

10. Can I freeze banana pudding?

While you can freeze the pudding, the texture may change once it’s thawed, as the whipped cream and bananas don’t freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a few days in the fridge.

Conclusion

The Very Best Banana Pudding EVER is a perfect combination of creamy, fluffy, and crunchy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just satisfying a sweet craving, this dessert is sure to impress. With its easy-to-follow instructions and minimal ingredients, you’ll find yourself making it time and again. The rich flavors, complemented by fresh banana slices and Nilla Wafers, make it a crowd favorite every time.

The Very Best Banana Pudding EVER

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This is the best banana pudding recipe you’ll ever try! It’s rich, creamy, and features layers of banana flavor, whipped cream, and crunchy Nilla wafers. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make yet incredibly indulgent.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
Whip the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Beat the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, pudding mix, and milk until smooth.
Fold in 2/3 of the whipped cream.
Layer Nilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture in the baking dish. Repeat.
Top with remaining whipped cream, cover, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
Sprinkle crushed Nilla wafers before serving.

Notes

Chill for at least 8 hours (preferably overnight).
Use Cool Whip as a substitute for whipped cream.
Replace Nilla wafers with shortbread or Chessman cookies if preferred.