Description
This Delicious Banana Pudding recipe combines creamy layers of vanilla pudding, whipped cream, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafer cookies to create a classic, irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion. With a beautiful trifle-style presentation and rich, smooth textures, this easy-to-make treat can be assembled ahead and chilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Milk & Pudding Mix
- 2 cups cold whole milk (480ml)
- 1 (14-ounce/397g) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (5.1-ounce/144g) box instant vanilla pudding mix
Whipped Cream & Flavorings
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream, divided (720ml)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
Other Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce/425g) box vanilla wafer cookies
- 5 large bananas
Instructions
- Mix Milk and Condensed Milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the cold whole milk and sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.
- Add Pudding Mix: Sprinkle in the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes until it sets.
- Whip Cream for Pudding: In a separate bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Whipped Cream and Pudding: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until completely incorporated.
- Prepare Bananas: Peel and slice the bananas into ½-inch thick coins just before assembly to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
- Layer Cookies: Start assembling in a trifle dish or large serving bowl by layering vanilla wafer cookies on the bottom.
- Add Pudding Layer: Spoon a quarter of the pudding mixture over the cookie layer and smooth evenly with a spatula.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of vanilla wafers, placing some cookies upright along the edge for decoration, then layer banana slices and add another quarter of the pudding. Smooth again.
- Continue Layering: Alternate between the cookies, bananas, and pudding layers until all ingredients are used up, ensuring banana slices and cookies alternate along the dish walls for visual appeal.
- Chill Dessert: Refrigerate the assembled banana pudding for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set.
- Prepare Topping: Whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
- Add Final Touches and Serve: Spread the whipped cream topping over the chilled pudding. Garnish with extra banana slices and crumbled vanilla wafers if desired. Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness in the pudding.
- Assemble the pudding just before serving or at least a few hours ahead for best flavor and texture.
- For a lighter alternative, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a subtle coconut flavor.
- If preferred, use reduced-fat milk and cream, but the dessert will be less rich.
- Ensure to fold the whipped cream gently to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in a covered container for up to 2 days.
