Description
Mama’s Banana Pudding is a timeless, no-bake Southern dessert made with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet ripe bananas, and classic vanilla wafer cookies. It’s rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced between silky smooth and softly layered, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Introduction
This is the kind of dessert that brings back memories of family dinners, church potlucks, and Sunday afternoons. Simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. No baking, no complicated steps, just pure comfort in every spoonful. This recipe stays true to the classic version everyone knows and loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick and easy to prepare
No baking required
Uses simple, affordable ingredients
Perfect for making ahead
Creamy, nostalgic, and always a hit
Ingredients
1 (5-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
4 large bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafer cookies
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thick and smooth.
Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined and creamy.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and fluffy, with no streaks remaining.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
In a glass dish or serving bowl, create layers in this order:
A layer of vanilla wafer cookies
A layer of banana slices
A layer of pudding mixture
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Step 5: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and the cookies to soften.
Step 6: Serve
Serve chilled. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or extra banana slices if desired.
Variations
Use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping
Add cream cheese for a richer pudding layer
Use banana-flavored pudding for extra banana flavor
Top with toasted coconut or chopped nuts
Tips for Best Results
Use ripe but firm bananas for best texture
Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning
Chill overnight for the softest cookie layers
Use a glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers
Storage Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Best enjoyed within 24–48 hours
Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes
Serving Suggestions
Serve at family gatherings and holidays
Perfect for potlucks and barbecues
Pair with coffee or sweet tea
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is best when made ahead and chilled overnight.
How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Slice bananas right before assembling and keep them well-covered with pudding.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, but let it cool completely before assembling.
What dish size works best?
A 9×13-inch dish or similar-sized trifle bowl works perfectly.
Conclusion
Mama’s Banana Pudding is more than just a dessert, it’s comfort, tradition, and sweetness all in one dish. Creamy, layered, and irresistibly nostalgic, this recipe proves that the simplest desserts are often the most loved. One bite, and you’ll understand why it never goes out of style.