The Very Best Banana Pudding Ever Recipe

The Best Banana Pudding Recipe – Discover how to make the creamiest banana pudding with layers of Nilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a rich banana pudding filling. This easy, no-bake dessert features a fluffy whipped cream topping and a smooth, creamy pudding that’s sure to impress. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, and potlucks, this banana pudding recipe is a must-try! Enjoy the perfect balance of textures with crunchy wafers, sweet bananas, and velvety pudding. Make it ahead for an unforgettable treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• For the Whipped Cream:
• 2 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Pudding Layer:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 14 oz (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
• 5 oz (1 box) instant banana pudding mix (just the dry powder)
• 1 cup 2% or whole milk
• For Assembly:
• 11 oz (1 box) Nilla Wafers
• About 8 medium bananas, sliced (barely ripe, not too soft)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan
   Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Make the Whipped Cream
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Using the whisk attachment, whip the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes. Once whipped, transfer to a medium bowl and set aside.
3. Prepare the Pudding Mixture
   In the same mixer bowl (no need to clean it), add the softened cream cheese. Whip on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 30 seconds. Add the sweetened condensed milk and beat until smooth and free of lumps. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Next, stir in the dry banana pudding mix until fully combined. Gradually pour in the milk and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated.
4. Combine with Whipped Cream
   Gently fold 2/3 of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Once incorporated, set the mixture aside.
5. Assemble the Banana Pudding
   In the prepared baking dish, layer the Nilla Wafers evenly on the bottom. Follow with a layer of sliced banana coins. Then, spread half of the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat with another layer of Nilla Wafers, more banana slices, and the remaining pudding mixture. Finally, spread the remaining 1/3 of the whipped cream on top.
6. Chill and Set
   Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight for best results, to allow the pudding to set.
7. Finish and Serve
   Just before serving, crush any remaining Nilla Wafers and sprinkle them over the top for added crunch and texture. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

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Tips

• Banana Freshness: Use bananas that are barely ripe for the best texture and to avoid browning in the pudding.
• Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better after it has time to chill and set overnight.
• Whipped Cream Tip: Make sure the whipped cream is stiff enough to hold its shape when folded into the pudding mixture for the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Banana Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of bananas, you can substitute with other fruits such as strawberries or peaches for a different twist.
• Nilla Wafers Substitute: Try using graham crackers or other types of cookies if you want to change up the texture or flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk and vegan whipped cream in place of dairy to make a vegan version.

FAQs

• Can I make banana pudding ahead of time? Yes, banana pudding needs to be chilled for several hours to set properly, so it’s perfect for making the night before.
• How do I store leftovers? Cover the banana pudding tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Can I use homemade whipped cream? Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for the store-bought variety for a more decadent touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this indulgent banana pudding as a delightful dessert at family gatherings, barbecues, or special occasions. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of iced tea or as a sweet end to a southern-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana pudding is creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk, smooth pudding, and crunchy Nilla Wafers creates the perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s a classic dessert that’s simple to make yet always impresses at any gathering. Once you try it, you’ll agree—this is the very best banana pudding ever!