Creamy, dreamy, and full of nostalgic goodness! This classic Southern banana pudding is layered with sweet vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers, then topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s the kind of homemade dessert that brings back sweet memories of Grandma’s kitchen! ❤️
Ingredients:
- 1 package (5.1 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping, thawed
- 4–5 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
- 1 box (11 ounces) vanilla wafer cookies
- Extra vanilla wafers and banana slices, for garnish
Instructions:
- Make the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until thickened.
- Add the sweetness: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until light and fluffy.
- Start layering: Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a large serving dish.
- Add bananas and pudding: Place a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, then spread a layer of creamy pudding on top.
- Repeat: Continue layering wafers, bananas, and pudding until all the ingredients are used, finishing with pudding.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, so the wafers soften and the flavors blend together.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, top with extra vanilla wafers and fresh banana slices.
Tip: For the best texture, use bananas that are ripe but still firm. Add fresh banana slices on top just before serving to help prevent browning. Keep the pudding refrigerated.
❤️ Do you prefer your banana pudding with soft, cake-like wafers or crunchy vanilla wafers? 🍌