Name: No Bake Banana Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix; 3 cups cold milk; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed; 5–6 fresh bananas, sliced; 1 box (11 oz) vanilla wafer cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no bake banana pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—sweet, creamy, and nostalgic. It’s quick to assemble and requires only a few simple ingredients. Since it’s made ahead and chilled, it’s ideal for entertaining or potlucks. The blend of creamy pudding, soft cookies, and fresh bananas creates the perfect mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Sweetened condensed milk
Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
Fresh bananas, sliced
Vanilla wafer cookies

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.
Add a layer of banana slices on top of the wafers.
Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
Just before serving, garnish with extra banana slices or crushed wafers, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10–12 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours or overnight
Total time: approximately 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla for extra banana flavor.
Add cream cheese to the pudding mix for a richer texture.
Layer in a trifle bowl for an elegant presentation.
Top with crushed cookies or caramel drizzle for added flavor and crunch.
Use graham crackers or shortbread cookies as an alternative to vanilla wafers.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover banana pudding in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the bananas may start to brown and the wafers will continue to soften over time. This dish should not be frozen, as the texture will become watery and unappetizing once thawed. No reheating is needed—always serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this banana pudding a day in advance?

Yes, it’s even better the next day after the flavors have melded and the wafers have softened slightly.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and sweetened to taste.

Will the bananas turn brown?

They may begin to brown after a day or so. To slow this down, coat the slices lightly with lemon juice before layering.

Can I use banana pudding instead of vanilla?

Yes, banana-flavored pudding will enhance the banana taste even more.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free pudding mix and cookies.

Can I add cream cheese to the pudding?

Yes, softened cream cheese can be whipped into the pudding mixture for a thicker, tangier version.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It’s best eaten within 3 days. After that, the bananas and wafers may lose their texture and flavor.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, just be sure it’s stabilized if you’re preparing it in advance, so it holds its shape.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Some plant-based milks work with instant pudding, but check the package directions—almond and soy milk are common options.

Is this a kid-friendly recipe?

Definitely! Kids love the creamy texture and sweet banana flavor, and they can even help assemble it.

Conclusion

No Bake Banana Pudding is a beloved dessert that delivers rich flavor and creamy texture with almost no effort. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or summer barbecues, it’s a dish that appeals to all ages and requires no oven time. With its luscious layers of pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers, this easy classic is one you’ll return to again and again.