This Banana Pudding balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Banana Pudding captures the essence of desserts|puddings & mousses while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Banana Pudding becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
11 oz box Vanilla Wafers
4 to 6 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 (5 oz) box Instant French Vanilla pudding
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, at room temp
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream
PREPARATION STEPS
To the bottom of the 9×13 dish, cover evenly with half of the vanilla wafers. Add the bananas, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness, to the top of the wafers.
In the medium bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the milk and pudding mix.
In a large bowl, using the hand mixer combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together until smooth. Once smooth use a rubber spatula to fold in the whipped topping.
Fold the pudding into the cheese mixture until well incorporated.
Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas, covering with the remaining cookies.
Refrigerate until ready to serve, at least 1 hour.
PREP: 10 min, TOTAL: 2 hr 10 min, SERVINGS: 15
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 55 min | Servings: 12 | Calories: ~320 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Coffee; Tea; Vanilla ice cream; Fresh berries
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.