Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that combines layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and soft vanilla wafers for a perfectly sweet and nostalgic treat. This comforting dessert is simple to make yet elegant enough for any occasion, offering a balance of creamy, fruity, and cookie textures that melt in your mouth. Whether served chilled or freshly made, banana pudding is a crowd-pleaser that brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients
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4 ripe bananas, sliced
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1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
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2 cups cold milk
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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3 tablespoons powdered sugar
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1 box vanilla wafers (about 45-50 wafers)
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Optional: crushed wafers or banana slices for topping
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until smooth and thickened.
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Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
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In another bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, creating whipped cream.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.
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In a large glass dish or trifle bowl, begin layering: start with a base of vanilla wafers, then a layer of banana slices, followed by the pudding mixture.
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Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a pudding layer on top.
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Garnish with crushed wafers or banana slices if desired.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.