Banana Pudding Layered Dessert – A Southern Classic with a Creamy Twist

Banana pudding is the epitome of Southern comfort food: a dessert that combines layers of creamy custard, sweet bananas, and soft cookies to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This version adds a modern twist by blending rich vanilla pudding with whipped cream for extra lightness, giving it a luscious, dreamy texture while still honoring the classic flavors. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a weekend treat, this layered dessert is as easy to make as it is irresistible.

Ingredients

For 6–8 servings, you will need:

• 4–5 ripe bananas – sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk – for the pudding
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – optional but enhances flavor
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – chilled
• ¼ cup powdered sugar – to sweeten the whipped cream
• 1 package (11 oz) vanilla wafer cookies – or Ladyfinger cookies for a slightly different texture
• Optional garnish: toasted coconut, chocolate shavings, or extra banana slices

Equipment Needed

• Medium mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 9×9-inch baking dish or a trifle bowl
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding

1. In a medium bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk.
2. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
4. Cover and chill in the fridge while you prepare the whipped cream.

Tip: For an extra creamy twist, you can substitute half the milk with half-and-half or use homemade custard.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

1. In a separate chilled bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream.
2. Add powdered sugar and use an electric mixer or whisk to whip until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chilled pudding until fully combined. This makes the pudding light and airy.
   

   Step 3: Slice the Bananas

   1. Peel and slice 4–5 ripe bananas into thin rounds.
   2. To prevent browning, you can brush them lightly with lemon juice, though it’s optional.

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   Step 4: Assemble the Layers

   1. First layer: Spread a thin layer of pudding mixture at the bottom of your baking dish.
   2. Second layer: Add a layer of vanilla wafer cookies, breaking them to fit if necessary.
   3. Third layer: Arrange a layer of banana slices over the cookies.
   4. Repeat the layers: pudding → cookies → bananas, until all ingredients are used. Finish with a generous layer of pudding on top.

   Pro tip: Press cookies slightly into the pudding so they soften but don’t completely dissolve. This gives a perfect texture contrast.

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   Step 5: Chill the Dessert

   1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
   2. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the cookies to soften to a perfect cake-like texture.

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   Step 6: Garnish and Serve

   1. Just before serving, garnish with crushed vanilla wafers, chocolate shavings, or toasted coconut.
   2. Slice into portions and serve chilled for maximum creaminess.

   Extra twist: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a slightly different flavor profile.

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   Tips for the Perfect Banana Pudding

   • Use ripe but firm bananas—overripe bananas can become mushy when layered.
   • Layering pudding with whipped cream makes it lighter than traditional banana pudding.
   • For individual servings, use mason jars or small dessert cups for a cute presentation.
   • The dessert tastes even better the next day as the flavors fully develop.

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   Banana pudding is more than a dessert; it’s a piece of Southern heritage served in every creamy spoonful. This layered version with a creamy twist elevates the classic while keeping it simple, making it perfect for any occasion. Soft cookies, luscious pudding, and sweet bananas come together in a symphony of textures and flavors that will make everyone ask for seconds.

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   If you want, I can also make a version with step-by-step photos for each layer, so it’s visually easier to follow and looks perfect when served.

   Do you want me to do that?