Banana Pudding

The Best Homemade Banana Pudding Recipe with Vanilla Wafers

by

There’s nothing quite like a classic banana pudding recipe to bring comfort and nostalgia to the table. This creamy, dreamy dessert, layered with ripe bananas and crispy vanilla wafers, is a Southern staple that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, potluck, or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, this homemade banana pudding is guaranteed to impress.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best banana pudding with vanilla wafers, complete with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and delicious variations. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make the creamiest, most decadent banana pudding possible.

Must Check: Southern Banana Pudding

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect banana pudding dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pudding:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • 4 cups whole milk

  • 4 large egg yolks

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Layers:

  • 4-5 ripe bananas (sliced)

  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers (Nilla Wafers preferred)

Topping (Optional):

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

*Pro Tip: For an extra-rich pudding, substitute 1 cup of milk with heavy cream.*

Banana Pudding

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate Banana pudding:

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.

  2. Gradually whisk in milk to avoid lumps.

  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).

Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks.

  2. Slowly pour 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking (this prevents scrambling).

  3. Return the yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes until thick.

Step 3: Add Butter & Vanilla

  1. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.

  2. Let the pudding cool slightly while you prepare the layers.

Step 4: Layer the Banana Pudding

  1. In a large trifle dish or bowl, place a layer of vanilla wafers.

  2. Add a layer of sliced bananas.

  3. Pour half of the pudding over the bananas.

  4. Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, pudding).

  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

Step 5: Add Whipped Cream Topping (Optional)

  1. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

  2. Spread over the pudding before serving.

Pro Tip: For a no-bake banana pudding, use instant pudding mix instead of homemade, but homemade always tastes better!

Tips for the Creamiest Banana Pudding

Want the smoothest, richest banana pudding? Follow these expert tips:

✔ Use ripe but firm bananas – Overripe bananas turn mushy.
✔ Let the pudding cool slightly before layering to prevent sogginess.
✔ Chill for at least 4 hours – This allows the vanilla wafers to soften perfectly.
✔ Avoid overmixing the pudding to prevent a grainy texture.

How to Layer Banana Pudding Perfectly

The secret to the best banana pudding with Nilla wafers is in the layering:

  1. Bottom Layer: Vanilla wafers (slightly crushed for extra texture).

  2. Banana Layer: Evenly spaced slices to ensure every bite has banana.

  3. Pudding Layer: Smooth and creamy, covering all gaps.

  4. Repeat: End with a final layer of pudding or whipped cream.

Pro Tip: For a stunning presentation, arrange wafers vertically along the sides of a glass bowl.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Try these delicious twists on the classic banana pudding recipe:

1. Chocolate Banana Pudding

  • Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the pudding mix.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Pudding

  • Swirl in ½ cup peanut butter before layering.

3. Vegan Banana Pudding

  • Use almond milk, coconut cream, and vegan wafers.

4. Banana Pudding Cheesecake

  • Layer with a no-bake cheesecake filling.

Pro Tip: For a banana pudding pie, press vanilla wafers into a crust and layer as usual.

Serving & Storage Suggestions banana pudding recipe

Serving Ideas:

  • Top with meringue and torch for a banana pudding meringue.

  • Serve in individual jars for a cute presentation.

  • Garnish with caramel drizzle or crushed wafers.

Storage Tips:

✔ Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days.
✔ Freezer: Not recommended (bananas turn brown).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant pudding instead of homemade?

Yes, but homemade tastes richer and creamier.

2. Why are my vanilla wafers soggy?

You may have added pudding while it was too hot. Let it cool slightly first.

3. Can I make banana pudding ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight.

4. How do I keep bananas from browning?

Toss banana slices in lemon juice or layer just before serving.

Final Thoughts 

This homemade banana pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert—creamy, sweet, and loaded with layers of bananas and vanilla wafers. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, this Southern banana pudding will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Now that you have the best banana pudding recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family.

Happy Baking! 🍌🍮

Leave a Comment