Best Banana Pudding

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Pudding:

• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold whole milk
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

For the Layers:

• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies (like Nilla Wafers)

Optional Toppings:

• Additional whipped cream
• Crushed vanilla wafers
• Banana slices for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pudding Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth (about 2 minutes).
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined.
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is creamy and uniform.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

1. In a large trifle dish or a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
2. Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.
3. Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the bananas and spread evenly.
4. Repeat the layers: cookies, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture.

Step 3: Chill & Serve

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften.
2. Before serving, top with extra whipped cream, crushed vanilla wafers, and banana slices if desired.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 72g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 52g

Tips & Variations

• For a Lighter Version: Use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.
• Extra Creamy: Substitute half the milk with heavy cream for a richer texture.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the pudding the night before for an easy dessert the next day.

Conclusion

This Best Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and packed with layers of flavor. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple treat at home, this no-bake recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!