The first time I made banana pudding, I just wanted to use up a few overripe bananas but it turned into pure comfort. Creamy vanilla pudding, soft Nilla Wafers, and fresh banana slices created a nostalgic dessert that felt like home.

This homemade banana pudding is silky, sweet, and incredibly simple to make. Whether you use Cool Whip or make it from scratch, every bite tastes like a Southern classic. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any sweet craving, it’s a dessert everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding

There’s a reason this banana pudding recipe is a timeless favorite it’s comfort food at its best. Every layer brings something to love:

Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like milk, pudding mix, and Nilla Wafers or fully homemade for a from-scratch touch.
Perfect for Overripe Bananas: A delicious way to use those soft bananas sitting on the counter.
Creamy & Dreamy Texture: Each bite is smooth, fluffy, and full of banana flavor.
Easy Shortcut Option: Try an easy banana pudding with Cool Whip for a quick crowd-pleaser.
Always a Hit: Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or when you’re craving an old-fashioned banana dessert recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best banana pudding starts with a few simple, comforting ingredients. Whether you’re making it completely from scratch or taking the quick Cool Whip route, here’s everything you’ll need:

Fresh Bananas

Use ripe or slightly overripe bananas for the sweetest flavor and creamy texture. Slice them right before layering to prevent browning.

Nilla Wafers

These classic vanilla cookies make every bite irresistible. They soften as they chill, creating that signature pudding-cake texture. For a fun twist, try vanilla or butter shortbread cookies.

Creamy Filling

You can use instant vanilla pudding mix or make homemade pudding from scratch with milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Both versions deliver a silky, custard-like base.

Milk & Cream

Whole milk gives richness, while a splash of heavy cream adds smooth depth to your banana dessert recipe.

Cool Whip or Whipped Cream

If you prefer an easier version, go for easy banana pudding with Cool Whip. For a classic touch, use freshly whipped cream for a light, airy finish.

Optional Add-Ins

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or a handful of crushed wafers on top for extra flavor and crunch.

How to Make Banana Pudding from Scratch

This homemade banana pudding from scratch is simple to prepare and tastes like pure comfort. Follow these easy steps to get that creamy, dreamy texture every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Base

In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, then temper in the egg yolks to create a smooth, custard-like texture. Once the mixture thickens, take it off the stove and blend in the butter and vanilla until fully incorporated and silky. Let it cool slightly before assembling.

Step 2: Slice the Bananas and Layer the Wafers

In a large dish, start with a layer of Nilla Wafers, followed by banana slices. Spoon some of the warm pudding mixture over the layered bananas and wafers. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.

Step 3: Chill and Set

Cover with plastic wrap (press it directly against the pudding to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. The banana pudding will firm up and the wafers will soften for that perfect Southern-style texture.

Step 4: Add Whipped Topping

Before serving, spread Cool Whip or fresh whipped cream over the chilled pudding. For a little extra flair, garnish with crushed wafers or banana slices.

Banana Pudding Recipe (Homemade, Creamy & Easy!)

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Author: Chef Luna
Total Time: 30 minutes + chilling
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This homemade banana pudding is silky, sweet, and nostalgic. Layered with creamy vanilla custard, ripe bananas, and classic Nilla Wafers, it’s the perfect Southern dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 ripe bananas
1 box Nilla Wafers (or shortbread cookies)
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
4 large egg yolks
2 tbsp butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups whipped cream or Cool Whip

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Instructions

In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thick.
Temper egg yolks by slowly adding warm milk mixture, then return to pan. Cook until custard thickens.
Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool slightly.
Layer wafers, banana slices, and pudding in a dish. Repeat layers until used up.
Press plastic wrap onto pudding surface and chill for at least 3 hours.
Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with banana slices or crushed wafers.

Notes

Best served chilled. Can be made one day ahead.
Use lemon juice on banana slices to prevent browning.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake / Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Tips for the Best Banana Pudding

To make this banana pudding recipe turn out perfectly every time, here are a few simple tricks from the kitchen:

Use Ripe (Not Mushy) Bananas: Slightly overripe bananas add sweetness and creaminess without turning brown too quickly.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating for at least 3 hours allows the layers to set and the wafers to soften into that classic pudding-cake texture.
Prevent Browning: Slice bananas right before layering, or lightly brush them with lemon juice.
Whip It Up Right: Homemade whipped cream gives a rich texture, but Cool Whip works perfectly for an easy banana pudding with Cool Whip version.
Don’t Skip the Layers: Alternate wafers, bananas, and pudding for the perfect balance in every bite.
Make Ahead Friendly: This dessert actually tastes better after chilling overnight ideal for holidays or potlucks.

Variations & Add-Ins

One of the best things about banana pudding is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re after a richer flavor or a fun new twist, try one of these simple variations:

Caramel Banana Pudding: Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers for a buttery, sweet depth.
Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl a few spoonfuls of peanut butter into the pudding base or top with crushed peanut butter cookies.
Chocolate Lover’s Version: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or sprinkle cocoa powder for a banana dessert recipe with extra indulgence.
Toffee Crunch: Mix in crushed toffee bits or caramelized nuts for added texture.
Berry Delight: Add sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fruity, colorful touch.
Layered Parfaits: Assemble individual banana pudding cups in jars — perfect for parties or portion control.

These fun add-ins make it easy to turn a classic homemade banana pudding from scratch into your own signature dessert.

Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

The beauty of banana pudding is that it gets even better after resting. Here’s how to store and prep it ahead of time while keeping that creamy texture intact:

Refrigeration: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors blend beautifully, and the wafers soften just right.
Freezing: While freezing isn’t ideal for the best texture, you can freeze leftovers in individual containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the pudding a day in advance, but wait to add the whipped topping until just before serving. This keeps it looking fresh and fluffy.
Avoid Soggy Bananas: If prepping ahead, brush banana slices lightly with lemon juice to slow browning.

This make-ahead friendly banana dessert recipe is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or potlucks when you need something easy and crowd-pleasing.

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Common Questions About Banana Pudding

Can I use overripe bananas in banana pudding?

Yes! Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and blend beautifully with the creamy pudding layers. Just avoid overly mushy or browned bananas, as they can affect the texture.

Can I make banana pudding without Cool Whip?

Absolutely. Replace Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher, lighter version of homemade banana pudding from scratch. Simply whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

How long will banana pudding last in the fridge?

Properly covered, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The longer it chills, the softer the wafers become perfect for that classic creamy texture.

Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes! This dessert is make-ahead friendly. Assemble it the day before and refrigerate overnight. Add your topping just before serving for the best presentation.

How can I keep bananas from turning brown?

To prevent browning, brush slices lightly with lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering. It won’t affect the flavor and keeps your pudding looking fresh.

More Banana Dessert Recipes You’ll Love

If you love this creamy banana pudding recipe, here are a few more sweet and simple desserts to try next:

Banana Cream Pie – Buttery crust, silky banana custard, and whipped cream perfection.
Caramelized Banana Bread Pudding – A warm, cozy twist made with leftover bread and ripe bananas.
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars – Layers of vanilla cheesecake, bananas, and Nilla wafers.
Frozen Banana Pops – A fun, kid-friendly treat dipped in chocolate and nuts.
Banana Split Trifle – Layers of pudding, cake, whipped cream, and cherries for a show-stopping dessert.

Each one is comforting, nostalgic, and made with that same homemade touch that makes banana dessert recipes so irresistible.