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–+ servings
Banana Pudding

Irresistibly Creamy Banana Pudding for Your Summer BBQ

Enjoy this Classic Southern Banana Pudding, a no-bake dessert that layers creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and crispy Nilla Wafers for a true crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pudding Mixture
  • 5 oz vanilla pudding mix This is your primary thickening agent; a family-size box enhances the pudding's creaminess.
  • 1.5 cups cold milk Whole milk is recommended for richness.
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk Adds luscious sweetness; irreplaceable for best flavor.
  • 12 oz whipped topping Reserve 1 cup for finishing layer.
For the Layers
  • 16 oz vanilla wafer cookies Traditional Nilla Wafers create the perfect crunchy element.
  • 7-8 whole bananas Use ripe but not overripe bananas for best flavor.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Trifle dish or serving bowl
  • spatula
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Southern Banana Pudding
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 5 oz box of vanilla pudding mix and 1 ½ cups of cold whole milk. Blend until well combined and thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 5 minutes.
  2. After thickening, gently fold in the entire 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk until thoroughly combined, maintaining creamy texture.
  3. Reserve 1 cup of whipped topping, then fold in the remaining 12 oz of whipped topping into the pudding mixture, keeping it light and airy. Return to refrigerator while preparing bananas.
  4. Slice 7-8 ripe bananas into even rounds and arrange them to prevent browning.
  5. Layer half of the vanilla wafer cookies, followed by half of the sliced bananas, then pour half of the pudding mixture. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
  6. Spread the reserved 1 cup of whipped topping over the final layer and garnish as desired. Chill before serving.
  7. Refrigerate your assembled banana pudding for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Avoid soggy wafers by assembling the pudding shortly before serving. Select ripe bananas for the best sweetness and keep the dessert chilled for optimal texture.

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