Name: Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 packages (11 oz each) vanilla wafers; 6 tablespoons melted butter; 16 oz cream cheese (2 packages of 8 oz each); 3/4 cup sugar; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 box (3.4 oz) Jell-O Instant Banana Cream Pudding & Pie Filling; 1 3/4 cups milk; 5 large bananas, sliced; Remaining vanilla wafers (for layering and topping)

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There’s something irresistibly nostalgic and luscious about this Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe that makes it a show-stopping dessert for any occasion. Imagine layers of crunchy vanilla wafers, creamy cheesecake filling infused with banana pudding, and fresh banana slices stacked together like a decadent lasagna. This delightful treat balances smooth, rich textures with just the right amount of sweetness, creating a comforting yet elegant dessert you’ll want to share over and over again with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear rectangular glass dish filled with a smooth, creamy white layer topped with a neat, single layer of round, light yellow banana slices evenly covering the surface. The dish is placed on a white marbled texture surface. The bananas have a slightly translucent look with visible dark spots in the center. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believe it or not, this Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly extraordinary. Each item brings its own magic: the vanilla wafers add crunch, cream cheese lends richness, and fresh bananas give natural sweetness and softness.

Vanilla wafers (2 packages, 11 oz each): The crispy base and middle layers that add texture and nostalgic flavor.
Butter (6 tbsp, melted): Helps bind the wafer crumbs into a solid crust with a buttery finish.
Cream cheese (16 oz total): Brings creamy tanginess, making the cheesecake layer lush and smooth.
Sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly without overpowering.
Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Whipped to stiff peaks for a light, fluffy texture in the cheesecake layer.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, fragrant note that enhances the overall flavor.
Banana pudding mix (1 box, 3.4 oz): Instant banana cream pudding mix adds that classic banana flavor and thickens the cheesecake layer.
Milk (1 3/4 cups): Combines with pudding mix to create the dense pudding layer.
Bananas (5 large, sliced): Fresh slices bring bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color between the layers.

How to Make Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by turning your vanilla wafers into fine crumbs using a blender or food processor. Then, mix these golden crumbs with melted butter to create a buttery base. Press this mixture firmly into a 9×13-inch dish, forming the foundation for your lasagna. This crust not only adds crunch but keeps all layers beautifully anchored together.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. Next, add the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, whipping until quirky stiff peaks form—this ensures a light yet creamy texture. Separately, whisk the banana pudding mix with the milk until thickened, and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This luscious cheesecake layer is the heart of your Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Begin by spreading half of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust. Layer fresh sliced bananas on top, then add a layer of whole vanilla wafers for crunch. Spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the wafer layer, followed by another layer of sliced bananas. Finally, crush the remaining vanilla wafers into small chunks and sprinkle them over the top to add a delightful crunchy topping. Once assembled, refrigerate for at least two hours — or overnight if you can wait — to allow all those flavors to marry perfectly.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a creamy layered dessert with four distinct layers on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown base, followed by a thick, smooth white cream layer. Above that is a soft biscuit-like layer with a slightly golden color, topped again by a thick creamy layer that looks smooth and soft. The topmost layer is garnished with sliced bananas and small crumbled pieces of the biscuit. A silver fork rests next to the dessert, and a blurred yellow banana is visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When it’s time to serve, you can elevate this Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe by adding a few thoughtful garnishes. Fresh banana slices on top brighten the dish visually and add a fresh bite. A dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon can add a delicate touch of extra sweetness and warmth.

Side Dishes

This dessert is rich and creamy, so pairing it with light, fresh elements works beautifully. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of mixed berries to balance the indulgence. A simple cup of coffee or tea also complements the flavors without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re making this Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe for a party, consider serving it in individual glass parfait cups for an elegant presentation that shows off the beautiful layers. Alternatively, slice it into generous bars for easy grab-and-go enjoyment at potlucks or picnics. Either way, it’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dessert keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep those layers fresh and prevent the bananas from browning too quickly.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe, but keep in mind the texture of the bananas might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, wrap individual servings well and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold, so reheating isn’t typically recommended. If you prefer a slightly softer texture after refrigeration, you can let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use sugar-free pudding mix instead of regular banana pudding?

Absolutely! Sugar-free pudding mix can work well if you’re looking to reduce sugar content. Just keep an eye on the sweetness of the entire dessert and adjust the added sugar accordingly.

Will the bananas brown if I assemble the lasagna in advance?

Fresh bananas may brown slightly over time. To minimize this, assemble as close to serving time as possible or toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to keep them bright.

Can I substitute the vanilla wafers with another cookie?

Yes, cookies like shortbread or graham crackers make great alternatives, giving a slightly different but still delicious texture and flavor to the crust and layers.

Is this Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe suitable for parties?

Definitely! The large 9×13-inch pan makes plenty of servings, and the layered presentation is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and celebrations.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

With some substitutions—like using dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping products—you can create a similar Bananna Pudding Lasagna Recipe that suits dairy-free diets. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings together comfort and celebration in every creamy, crunchy bite. It’s easy enough to whip up for a weeknight treat but impressive enough to wow your guests at any event. I truly hope you fall in love with this cozy dessert as much as I have—so go ahead, give it a try, and share the joy!

Banana Pudding Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need