Layered Banana Pudding Delight

Nothing says comfort dessert quite like this layered banana pudding. It is the sweet treat I turn to for BBQs family gatherings or just when I want something nostalgic and creamy. This is a true Southern-style banana pudding with those familiar vanilla-y layers that people always fight for seconds of. The best part You only need a handful of ingredients and about half an hour to put everything together. After a chill in the fridge it transforms into a crowd-pleaser that always vanishes first on the dessert table.

I first made this banana pudding for a summer picnic and now it is the most requested dessert in my family circle. The cool whip swirl and golden wafer crunch make every bite irresistible.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cream cheese: softens to creamy perfection and gives the pudding a rich tangy base choose a block and allow it to reach room temperature for best blending
• Sweetened condensed milk: provides sweetness and silkiness make sure to use the full-fat version for optimal flavor
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: brings structure and classic flavor look for a quality brand
• Milk: hydrates the pudding and balances richness use whole milk if you want it extra creamy
• Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor choose real vanilla extract for a warmer taste
• Cool Whip whipped topping: helps the layers stay airy and light thaw fully in the refrigerator before using
• Nilla wafers: create crunchy layers and that unmistakable Southern touch buy a fresh box so the cookies hold up
• Bananas: add fruity creaminess slice just before layering and pick ripe but firm bananas to avoid mush in the pudding

How to Make It

Prep the Cream Cheese:

Beat cream cheese in a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy. This step ensures no lumps will sneak into your pudding

Mix Wet Ingredients:

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk followed by the instant vanilla pudding mix. Add two cups of milk and the vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and smooth

Fold in the Whipped Topping:

Gently stir in half of the Cool Whip. This keeps the filling extra light without deflating the mixture. Use a spatula and avoid overmixing to maintain the fluffiness

Layer the Nilla Wafers and Bananas:

Line a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with a full layer of Nilla wafers. Arrange half of the banana slices evenly over the top. This sets your first luscious layer

Add Pudding Layer:

Spoon half of the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas and spread evenly to the edges. Scatter another layer of Nilla wafers over the pudding

Repeat the Layers:

Continue with remaining bananas and top with the rest of the pudding mixture ensuring bananas are fully covered. This stops them from browning quickly

Chill Until Set:

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. The longer it sits the creamier the layers become

Final Garnish:

Right before serving decorate the top with extra Nilla wafers and fresh banana slices for a pretty and tasty finish

My absolute favorite ingredient in this is the vanilla wafers. I remember as a kid sneaking a few from the box while assembling the layers with my grandmother. Now my own kids help build the layers and we always end up with fewer cookies than we started with.

Flavor Boosters

This pudding keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Always store covered so the bananas stay fresh as long as possible. Wait to add fresh bananas on top until serving since they can darken as they sit. If you want to keep it even longer you can freeze leftovers but the texture will change from creamy to slightly icy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this banana pudding with a scattering of toasted coconut for a southern twist. For individual servings use clear cups or small mason jars to show off the pretty layers. A drizzle of caramel sauce right before serving takes it to a whole new level of indulgence.

Creative Twists

Banana pudding traces its roots to the American South and is deeply linked to family gatherings and holidays. When bananas are at peak season you get the best flavor but this dessert truly shines all year round. In spring try layering in fresh strawberries or blueberries for a colorful take.

This layered banana pudding was the first thing I ever made for a potluck and the dish was empty within minutes. It is a tradition now and every year neighbors ask for this recipe. Even those who claim not to like bananas end up asking for seconds.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, homemade whipped cream can be substituted for a fresher flavor and texture. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold it in as directed.

→ How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

To slow browning, slice bananas just before layering and consider tossing them lightly in lemon juice before adding them to the dish.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and chill it up to a day ahead. Add fresh bananas and wafer toppings right before serving for the best presentation.

→ What size dish is recommended for assembling?

A 9x13-inch baking dish works well, allowing enough room for multiple layers of pudding, wafers, and bananas.

→ Are there alternatives to Nilla wafers?

You can use other vanilla-flavored cookies or shortbread biscuits as a substitute if preferred.