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Is Banana Pudding an American Dish?

Is Banana Pudding an American Dish?

A creamy, dreamy Southern classic made with layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and silky pudding. This no-bake dessert is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or sweet cravings any day!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers
  • 45 ripe bananas, sliced into rounds
  • Whipped cream or crushed wafers for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the pudding and whisk until fully incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and fluffy.
  5. In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers across the bottom.
  6. Top with a layer of banana slices, then spread a layer of pudding mixture over the bananas.
  7. Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, pudding) until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to let the flavors meld and the wafers soften.
  9. Before serving, top with whipped cream or crushed vanilla wafers, if desired.

Notes

  • For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid browning.
  • This dessert can be made a day ahead for easier entertaining.
  • Use a trifle bowl for a visually appealing layered presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana pudding, no-bake dessert, Southern classic