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Classic Banana Pudding Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings 8 Servings
Layer sliced bananas, vanilla pudding, and vanilla wafers in a dish. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, then refrigerate until chilled and set. Top with whipped cream before serving.

Ingredients

  • 4 large ripe bananas
  • 1 (14 oz) (397g) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 package(3.4 oz) (96g) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 (12 oz) (340g) package vanilla wafers
  • 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
  • Additional banana slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions 

  • Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
    In a large mixing bowl, mash 3 of the bananas with a fork until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and cold water. Whisk until well combined.
    Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold whole milk to the banana mixture. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Layer the Pudding:
    In a trifle dish or serving bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.
    Slice the remaining banana and layer the slices over the wafers.
    Pour half of the pudding mixture over the banana slices, spreading it evenly.
    Add another layer of vanilla wafers on top of the pudding.
    Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the wafers, spreading it evenly.
  • Chill the Banana Pudding:
    Cover the banana pudding with plastic wrap, ensuring the plastic wrap touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
    Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 2 hours or until set.
  • Serve the Banana Pudding:
    Before serving, spread whipped cream or whipped topping over the chilled banana pudding.
    Garnish with additional banana slices if desired.
    Serve chilled and enjoy this classic comfort dessert with friends and family!

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for some or all of the whole milk in the pudding mixture.
  • Feel free to customize the layers by adding more banana slices or vanilla wafers according to your preference.
  • Banana pudding tastes best when chilled for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together, so plan ahead for the perfect dessert experience.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Classic Banana Pudding