Classic No-Bake Banana Pudding
This classic no-bake banana pudding recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a crowd. Layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a creamy vanilla pudding mixture create a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
Equipment
- large bowl
- whisk
- trifle dish or 9x13 inch pan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4-6 large, ripe (but not overly soft) bananas
- 1-2 boxes vanilla wafers Nilla wafers recommended
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) thawed whipped topping
Optional Garnish
- extra vanilla wafers
- banana slices
- a sprinkle cinnamon
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until it thickens.
- Slowly whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until it is fully combined and smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, ensuring no streaks remain, to keep the mixture light and airy.
Assembly
- Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers in a large trifle dish or 9x13 inch pan.
- Top the wafers with a layer of sliced bananas.
- Spoon about half of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
- Repeat the layers with more wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture.
Chilling and Garnish
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the wafers to soften and flavors to meld.
- Before serving, you can garnish with extra vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
For best results, make sure your bananas are ripe but firm enough to hold their shape when sliced. Chilling overnight truly enhances the pudding by allowing the flavors to deepen and the wafers to achieve a cake-like consistency.