This classic Banana Pudding Recipe is a timeless dessert that brings comfort, nostalgia, and celebration to the table—making it perfect for New Year’s gatherings. Featuring layers of ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a rich, creamy pudding folded with whipped topping, this dessert is easy to assemble and even better after chilling. Whether served in a trifle dish for a crowd or individual cups for parties, banana pudding is a guaranteed favorite that feels both indulgent and familiar.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 1 (9x9-inch) dish or trifle bowl
Ingredients
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups cold whole milk
- 1 (5-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (12-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
- 4 to 5 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (11-ounce) box vanilla wafer cookies
Directions
- Prepare the pudding base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, cold milk, and instant pudding mix until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract. - Fold in whipped topping:
Gently fold whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined. This creates a light, fluffy texture. Avoid overmixing to keep the pudding airy. - Assemble the layers:
In a 9x9-inch dish or trifle bowl, arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom. Top with a layer of banana slices, followed by a layer of pudding mixture. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top. - Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. The wafers will soften as they absorb moisture from the pudding. - Serve:
Garnish with additional crushed wafers or banana slices, if desired, just before serving.
Tips & Best Practices
- Use just-ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture—avoid overly ripe bananas, which can become mushy.
- Assemble close to serving time if you prefer firmer wafers.
- For a festive New Year’s twist, serve in individual glass cups or top with whipped cream rosettes.
- Keep refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 360mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 39g
- Protein: 7g
Conclusion
This Banana Pudding Recipe is a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dessert that fits seamlessly into any New Year’s celebration. Creamy, comforting, and layered with classic flavors, it’s the kind of dessert guests return to for seconds. Whether you’re honoring tradition or simply looking for a reliable sweet treat to ring in the new year, this banana pudding delivers every time.
