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Classic Banana Pudding

Classic Banana Pudding in a glass trifle bowl shows layered wafers and creamy custard.
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This is a gourmet twist on the classic dessert, featuring layers of vanilla-specked custard, ripe bananas, and lightly toasted wafers. It is an easy, no-bake recipe that promises nostalgia and comfort in every creamy spoonful. Perfect for making ahead, it is the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups ice-cold water
  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla bean paste (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 5-6 medium ripe bananas, sliced
  • Optional garnish: Additional whipped cream, wafer crumbs, or banana slices

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk and ice-cold water until smooth.
  2. Sprinkle the instant pudding mix over the liquid and whisk vigorously for 2 full minutes until thickened. Let it set for 5 minutes.
  3. In a separate chilled bowl, use a mixer to whip the heavy cream and vanilla bean paste until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding base until no white streaks remain.
  5. In a 9x13 dish or trifle bowl, spread a thin layer of the cream mixture.
  6. Add a single layer of vanilla wafers, then a layer of banana slices.
  7. Spoon one-third of the remaining cream mixture over the bananas and spread gently.
  8. Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, cream) two more times, ending with a cream layer on top.
  9. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
  10. Garnish with optional toppings just before serving.

Notes

For best results, use bananas that are yellow with just a few brown speckles. The pudding is significantly better after chilling overnight, as the wafers soften perfectly. To prevent browning, slice bananas just before assembling. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free condensed milk.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/classic-banana-pudding/