This Easy Banana Pudding Recipe comes together with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, fluffy whipped topping, and classic Nilla wafers. Deliciously sweet and easy to make, it’s a nostalgic treat perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a little comfort food!

The BEST Easy Banana Pudding Recipe

When it comes to classic desserts, banana pudding is an all-time favorite, and this version is quick and easy. It has all the sweet, banana flavor you know and love. However, the use of vanilla bean paste and a creamy whipped topping sets it apart from all the other versions out there, making it SO much better.

The vanilla bean paste infuses every bite with a bold vanilla flavor, and the whipped topping adds an extra layer of sweet, creamy goodness. Plus, this dessert is a completely no-bake recipe. Just combine, layer, and chill. Adjust the layers as needed to suit your preferences, and enjoy! Serve this recipe for banana pudding in a large trifle dish, or portion it into individual parfaits. Either way, it will be an instant favorite with all your guests.

Recipe Ingredients

Bananas: You’ll need 3-4 bananas that are thinly sliced. Unlike banana bread, where you want super ripe, soft fruit, it’s best to use slightly firmer bananas so they don’t become too mushy when layered with the pudding. You can also leave the bananas out altogether (that’s how I personally like it, lol).

Nilla Wafers: A must-have in every banana pudding recipe! You’ll need at least one box, but I love a crunchy pudding. So, I usually open a second when adding the Nilla wafer topping.

Cool Whip: Use an extra-creamy variety. We’ll use this to create a thick, creamy pudding layer. Then, I include extra layers of the creamy topping on its own to take the dessert over the top.

Vanilla Pudding: Make sure to use vanilla pudding mix, not already made pudding.

Whole Milk: Use this to create a thick, creamy pudding. Make sure it’s nice and cold for the best results!

Vanilla Bean Paste: This adds a rich, aromatic vanilla flavor that elevates the pudding. Vanilla bean paste, with its tiny flecks of vanilla seeds, gives the pudding a more natural and authentic vanilla flavor compared to extract, adding depth and a touch of luxury to the taste.

How to Make This 6-Ingredient Easy Recipe for Banana Pudding

Step 1. In a large bowl, add the cold milk, vanilla bean paste, and pudding mix. Whisk for 2 minutes or until thickened. Then, fold in 8 ounces of Cool Whip.

Step 2. In a small cups, large bowl (or casserole dish, trifle bowl, etc.), arrange a layer of cookies in the bottom. Spoon some of the pudding mixture evenly on top. Then, add a few banana slices.

Step 3. Repeat, adding another layer of cookies, pudding, and banana. Continue until you have three layers, ending with the pudding mixture.

Step 4. Next, add the reserved Cool Whip to the top layer and use an offset spatula to spread it out evenly. Feel free to add more if you like!

Step 5. Crush the remaining cookies and sprinkle them on top of the banana pudding. I like a lot of cookies. So, I typically have to open another box for the topping, but how much you use is up to personal preference.

Step 6. Cover the bowl and chill for at least two hours before serving. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store banana pudding?

Cover the pudding with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the longer the pudding sits, the softer the cookies will get.

Can you freeze banana pudding?

No, the pudding will become too runny and lose its flavor and the Nilla wafers will be soggy if frozen and thawed. Luckily, it’s super quick and easy to whip up a fresh batch.

How do I keep bananas from browning in banana pudding?

If you’re worried about your bananas browning, you can toss them in just a little lemon or lime juice before adding them to the pudding. Then, make sure to cover them completely with the different layers. This prevents the air from getting to them and causing them to oxidize or brown.

Don’t worry if they do brown a hit, though. It might not be as appetizing, but your pudding will still taste great!

Can I use homemade whip cream instead of cool whip?

I use cool whip for this recipe to help stabilize the banana pudding. You could possibly use cool whip, but I haven’t tested it.

More Delicious Recipes

I hope you love this Easy Banana Pudding Recipe! It’s sweet, creamy, and so easy to make! If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @‌butterloveandsalt on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews help support Butter, Love & Salt and make it possible for me to continue to create delicious recipes.

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