No Bake Banana Pudding

Why You’ll Love No Bake Banana Pudding  Recipe

This recipe requires no oven, making it quick and convenient.

It uses simple ingredients and comes together in just a few easy steps.

The pudding becomes even better as it chills, so it is perfect for preparing ahead of time.

It has a creamy texture, sweet banana flavor, and soft cookie layers that everyone loves.

Ingredients

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

5.1 oz vanilla instant pudding
3 cups cold milk
3 large bananas, thinly sliced, or 4 medium bananas
8 oz Cool Whip
1 box Nilla Wafer cookies
Additional bananas for garnish, if desired

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding and cold milk until smooth and thickened.

Stir in half of the Cool Whip until fully combined.

Place a layer of Nilla Wafer cookies across the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.

Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the banana slices and spread it evenly with a spatula.

Repeat the layers with more cookies, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture.

Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the top pudding layer.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best texture.

Before serving, garnish with fresh banana slices and crushed cookies, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla pudding for extra banana flavor.

Add a layer of sliced strawberries for a fruity twist.

Use graham crackers or shortbread cookies instead of Nilla Wafers.

Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers for a richer dessert.

Add a little vanilla extract to the pudding mixture for deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For the best texture, serve it chilled.

This dessert should not be reheated.

The bananas may darken slightly over time, so add fresh banana garnish right before serving.

Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the pudding, whipped topping, and bananas can change after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make no bake banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is great for making ahead. Refrigerating it overnight helps the cookies soften and the flavors blend.

How long should banana pudding chill?

It should chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight gives the best texture.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used, but Cool Whip helps the dessert hold its shape longer.

Can I use banana pudding mix?

Yes, banana pudding mix can be used if you want a stronger banana flavor.

How do I keep bananas from turning brown?

Slice the bananas right before layering and keep the dessert covered in the refrigerator.

Can I make this in individual cups?

Yes, layer the cookies, bananas, pudding, and whipped topping in small cups or jars for individual servings.

Can I use a different cookie?

Yes, graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or vanilla cookies can work well.

Is this recipe served cold?

Yes, banana pudding is best served chilled.

Can I freeze banana pudding?

Freezing is not recommended because the bananas and pudding can become watery after thawing.

How long does banana pudding last?

It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when covered properly.

Conclusion

No bake banana pudding is a simple, creamy, and comforting dessert that is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. With layers of vanilla pudding, bananas, whipped topping, and cookies, it is a classic chilled treat that tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator.