Description
This Easy Banana Pudding Recipe is a classic Southern comfort dessert featuring creamy vanilla pudding layered with ripe bananas and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s simple to make and perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat, combining smooth pudding, fluffy whipped topping, fresh fruit, and tender cookies for a delightful, nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pudding Mixture
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
Assembly
- 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about two minutes, or until the mixture starts to thicken. Allow it to set for a few minutes to firm up.
- Enhance the pudding: Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the thickened pudding mixture. Stir until thoroughly incorporated and smooth to achieve a richer, glossier consistency.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture using a spatula. Incorporate without deflating too much to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Layer the dessert: Begin assembling by arranging a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your serving dish. Top this with a generous layer of sliced ripe bananas.
- Add pudding and repeat layers: Spoon about half of the creamy pudding mixture over the banana and wafer layer. Follow with another layer of vanilla wafers and then another layer of sliced bananas. Spoon the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the top.
- Chill and set: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften into a tender texture.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
- For best results, chill overnight to let flavors fully develop.
- You can substitute whipped topping with whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Keep the plastic wrap touching the pudding surface to prevent a pudding skin.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for entertaining.
