Searching for the perfect no-bake dessert for your next gathering? This Southern-style Banana Pudding is irresistibly creamy, layered with fresh bananas, fluffy whipped topping, and sweet vanilla wafers. A favorite for potlucks, picnics, and holiday meals, this easy recipe combines convenience with homemade flavor—no oven required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

No baking required—perfect for warm weather
Rich and creamy layers for ultimate indulgence
Ideal for family events, cookouts, and special occasions
Easy to prepare in advance

Ingredients Breakdown:

Layers:

1 box Vanilla Wafers – Adds texture and nostalgic flavor; forms the base and topping.
6–8 bananas, sliced – Sweet, soft, and fresh fruit layers.

Pudding Mixture:

2 cups milk – Used to mix the pudding; keeps it smooth and light.
1 (5 oz) box Instant Vanilla or Banana Cream pudding – Provides the main flavor and body.

Creamy Filling:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened – Adds richness and tang.
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – Sweetens and thickens the filling.
1 (12 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed – Lightens the texture and adds fluffiness.

Tips and Tricks:

Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness.
To prevent banana browning, dip slices in lemon juice before layering.
For extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture.
Layer wafers vertically around the dish edges for a decorative look.
Crumble a few cookies on top right before serving for added crunch.

Variations and Customizations:

Strawberry Banana Twist: Add a layer of fresh strawberries for a fruity upgrade.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap vanilla wafers for chocolate cookies and use chocolate pudding.
Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed pecans or walnuts.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Substitute frozen topping with freshly whipped heavy cream for a richer taste.

Pairing Suggestions:

This banana pudding pairs beautifully with:

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze—the texture will suffer after thawing.
Best made 1 day in advance to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften.

Banana Pudding

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This no-bake Banana Pudding is a creamy, dreamy Southern dessert layered with sweet bananas, fluffy whipped topping, rich pudding, and classic Vanilla Wafers. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for potlucks, picnics

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

1. Layer the Base

In a 13×9-inch dish, layer the bottom with vanilla wafers.
Arrange sliced bananas evenly over the wafers.

2. Prepare the Pudding

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the milk and instant pudding until smooth and thickened.
Set aside to chill slightly while preparing the cream cheese mixture.

3. Blend Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.

4. Fold in Whipped Topping

Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

5. Combine and Layer

Mix the cream cheese mixture with the prepared pudding until well blended.
Pour evenly over the banana and wafer layers in the dish.
Top with remaining vanilla wafers for added texture.

6. Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
For best results, chill overnight to allow layers to fully set

Notes

Choose premium vanilla wafers for the best flavor and texture.
For a richer taste, consider using whole milk.
Double the recipe for large gatherings or holiday parties.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American