Creamy, dreamy, and full of banana flavor — this classic banana pudding is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Dessert — rich, creamy, and packed with banana goodness

• Easy to Make — no baking required, just layer and chill

• Perfect for Parties — a crowd favorite for any occasion

• Make-Ahead Friendly — tastes even better after chilling overnight

Ingredients

• 1 box vanilla wafers

• 6–8 ripe bananas, sliced

• 2 cups cold milk

• 1 (5 oz) box instant vanilla or banana cream pudding mix

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

Directions

Step 1: Layer the Base

In a 13×9-inch dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom, then top with sliced bananas.

Step 2: Make the Pudding

In a bowl, whisk together cold milk and pudding mix until smooth and thickened. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until creamy and lump-free.

Step 4: Combine Cream and Pudding

Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Then mix this with the prepared pudding until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Pudding

Pour the combined mixture evenly over the banana and wafer layer. Top with extra vanilla wafers for garnish.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Flavor: Use banana-flavored pudding mix for a stronger banana taste.

• Fresh Twist: Add a layer of crushed cookies or graham crackers for added crunch.

• Lighter Version: Swap regular cream cheese for a light version and use sugar-free pudding mix.

• Make It Pretty: Garnish with extra banana slices and a drizzle of caramel before serving.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Not recommended, as the bananas may become mushy and the texture will change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes better when chilled overnight because the flavors blend beautifully.

How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Lightly coat banana slices in lemon juice to slow oxidation before layering.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully chilled and thickened before mixing it with the cream cheese mixture.

Final Thoughts

This banana pudding is creamy, rich, and irresistibly delicious — a classic Southern-style dessert that’s always a hit at parties, holidays, and family dinners. One spoonful, and you’ll see why it’s called The Best Banana Pudding Ever!