Banana pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, a timeless classic that brings smiles to every gathering.

Imagine creamy layers of French vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers coming together in perfect harmony. 

This banana pudding recipe isn’t just any recipe; it’s the best one you’ll ever try. With rich cream cheese and the perfect balance of sweetness, it’s bound to become your go-to dessert for any occasion. 

Let’s dive into making the most delicious banana pudding ever!

Key Ingredients

2 boxes Vanilla Wafers

6 to 8 bananas, sliced

2 cups milk

1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese

1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, or an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Line the bottom of a 13×9 inch dish with one bag of vanilla wafers. Slice the bananas and layer them on top of the cookies.

Step 2: Make the Pudding

In a bowl, combine the milk and French vanilla pudding mix. Blend well using a handheld electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and thick.

Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture gently to maintain its light and airy texture.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

Add the cream cheese mixture to the prepared pudding mixture and stir until well blended. Pour this mixture over the layer of cookies and bananas in the dish. Spread it evenly to cover all the bananas and cookies.

Step 5: Final Touches

Cover the top of the pudding with the remaining bag of vanilla wafers. This adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the banana pudding until it’s ready to serve. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, ensure the banana pudding is well-chilled before serving. Refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight if possible.

Garnish: Add a touch of elegance and extra flavor by garnishing the top with freshly sliced bananas, a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers, or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving.

Individual Portions: For a more sophisticated presentation, consider serving the pudding in individual dessert cups or glasses. This not only looks appealing but also makes serving easier at parties.

Temperature: Serve the pudding straight from the refrigerator. The cool temperature enhances its creamy texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store any leftover banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the top tightly to prevent the bananas from browning and the pudding from absorbing any fridge odors.

Preventing Banana Browning: To slow down the browning process of the bananas, you can lightly coat the banana slices with lemon juice before layering them in the pudding. This will help maintain their color and freshness.

Freezing: While banana pudding is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place the pudding in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

Avoiding Soggy Wafers: If you plan to store the pudding for an extended period, consider adding a fresh layer of vanilla wafers just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Banana Pudding

For chocolate lovers, this variation adds a rich cocoa twist to the classic banana pudding.

Ingredients: Replace the French Vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding. Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or grated chocolate to the cream cheese mixture.

Instructions: Follow the original recipe, substituting the French Vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding mix. Add mini chocolate chips or grated chocolate to the cream cheese mixture before folding in the whipped topping. Proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed.

Peanut Butter Banana Pudding

Combining the flavors of peanut butter and banana creates a deliciously creamy and nutty dessert.

Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture.

Instructions: Follow the original recipe. Before folding in the whipped topping, blend 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Continue with the rest of the recipe as directed.

Strawberry Banana Pudding

Adding strawberries introduces a refreshing and fruity twist to the banana pudding.

Ingredients: Add 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries. Optional: Replace one bag of vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies for a different texture.

Instructions: Follow the original recipe. Layer the bottom of the dish with vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies. Alternate layers of sliced bananas and fresh strawberries over the cookies. Continue with the pudding mixture as directed.

Coconut Banana Pudding

Coconut lovers will enjoy this tropical variation that brings a delightful coconut flavor to the classic dessert.

Ingredients: Replace milk with coconut milk for a richer flavor. Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the pudding mixture.

Instructions: Follow the original recipe, substituting regular milk with coconut milk. Mix 1/2 cup shredded coconut into the pudding mixture before combining it with the cream cheese mixture. Proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Combining banana pudding with cheesecake creates a decadent and creamy dessert.

Ingredients: Prepare a graham cracker crust (1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter).

Instructions: Press the graham cracker crust mixture into the bottom of a 13×9 inch dish and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let it cool. Follow the original recipe, layering the pudding mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust. Refrigerate until set, and serve chilled.

Caramel Banana Pudding

Adding a layer of caramel sauce takes this banana pudding to a new level of indulgence.

Ingredients: Add 1 cup caramel sauce.

Instructions: Follow the original recipe. Drizzle caramel sauce over each layer of bananas before adding the pudding mixture. Continue layering and finish with a final drizzle of caramel sauce on top before refrigerating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream as a substitute for frozen whipped topping. Use an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream, ensuring it’s whipped to stiff peaks for the best texture.

2. How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?

To prevent bananas from browning, you can lightly coat the banana slices with lemon juice before layering them in the pudding. This will help maintain their color and freshness.

3. Can I make this banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes, banana pudding can be made a day ahead. In fact, refrigerating it overnight allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just ensure it is covered tightly to keep it fresh.

4. Can I use instant pudding mix instead of cook-and-serve pudding mix?

Yes, you can use instant pudding mix. The recipe calls for French Vanilla pudding, and instant pudding mix will work perfectly fine.

5. How long does banana pudding last in the refrigerator?

Banana pudding will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its quality.

6. Can I freeze banana pudding?

While banana pudding is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

7. Can I use different cookies instead of vanilla wafers?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla wafers with other cookies like shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or even chocolate chip cookies for a different texture and flavor.

8. What type of bananas should I use for the pudding?

Use ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture. Overly ripe bananas can become mushy, while underripe bananas may not have enough sweetness.

9. Can I add other fruits to the banana pudding?

Yes, you can add other fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or mangoes to the banana pudding for added flavor and variety. Layer them with the bananas for a delicious twist.

10. How can I make the pudding mixture thicker?

If you prefer a thicker pudding mixture, you can reduce the amount of milk slightly or add an extra tablespoon of instant pudding mix. Ensure you blend the mixture well to achieve the desired consistency.

This banana pudding recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. The combination of creamy layers, sweet bananas, and crunchy wafers makes it an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a special treat, this banana pudding will not disappoint. Try it out and experience the best banana pudding ever!