Learn how to make the best homemade Southern Banana Pudding from scratch. This creamy, layered dessert features fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and rich vanilla pudding. Perfect for potlucks, Sunday dinners, or a taste of Southern comfort at home.
Why Banana Pudding Is More Than Just a Dessert
Ask anyone raised in the American South, and they’ll likely tell you—banana pudding is more than a recipe. It’s a tradition passed down through generations. From Sunday church gatherings to family reunions, this creamy, layered dessert has earned a permanent spot on the Southern table.
This recipe captures the heart of the original, with soft vanilla wafers, perfectly ripe bananas, fluffy whipped cream, and smooth, sweet vanilla pudding. It’s easy to assemble, doesn’t require baking, and gets better as it chills.
What Makes Southern Banana Pudding Special?
It’s all about the layers and balance:
Creamy pudding that’s not too thick or too thin
Fresh, ripe bananas—not overripe or green
Crisp vanilla wafers that soften just right after chilling
Homemade whipped topping for a light finish
Easy to prepare, but packed with homemade flavor
Southern Banana Pudding Ingredients
You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples. Here’s the full list:
For the Pudding Base:
1 box (5 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold whole milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Whipped Cream:
1½ cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers:
1 box (about 12 oz) vanilla wafers (Nilla or similar)
3–4 large ripe bananas, sliced into thin rounds
Optional Garnish: Extra crushed wafers, banana slices, or meringue topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Vanilla Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, cold milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 5 minutes to chill and thicken further.
2. Prepare the Whipped Cream
In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the mixture on high speed for 3–5 minutes, until stiff peaks form. Do not overmix.
3. Fold Together the Creamy Layers
Gently fold about two-thirds of the whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture. Use a spatula and fold slowly to keep the mixture light and airy. Reserve the remaining third of the whipped cream for the top layer of the pudding.
4. Assemble the Layers
Use a 9×13-inch glass dish, large trifle bowl, or deep pie dish. Layer as follows:
Start with a base layer of vanilla wafers.
Add a single layer of banana slices.
Spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas.
Repeat until you’ve used all your ingredients.
Finish with the reserved whipped cream on top.
Optional: Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers, more banana slices, or pipe on meringue for a toasted finish.
5. Chill Before Serving
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor and texture, let it chill overnight. The wafers will soften slightly and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using underripe bananas: They’re too firm and don’t blend well with the texture. Choose ripe bananas with small brown spots.
Skipping the chill time: This step allows the wafers to soften and the dessert to set properly.
Overmixing whipped cream: Stop once stiff peaks form. Overwhipping can make it grainy.
Homemade Banana Pudding vs. Boxed Pudding
Why not just use a ready-made pudding cup? The answer is simple: flavor and texture. While boxed pudding works as a shortcut, making a simple homemade version (even with instant pudding mix) gives you:
A creamier, fresher taste
The ability to control sweetness and texture
A dessert that tastes closer to what Grandma used to make
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make pudding from scratch using eggs, cornstarch, and sugar. But this version balances convenience with flavor.
The History of Southern Banana Pudding
Banana pudding started appearing in American cookbooks in the late 19th century. As bananas became more widely available, creative home cooks began layering them with custards and cookies. The introduction of vanilla wafers in the 1920s turned the dish into the layered treat we recognize today.
For many Southerners, banana pudding is a staple at holidays, picnics, and potlucks. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and beloved by all ages.
Variations to Try
While traditional banana pudding is a classic, you can easily customize it:
1. Baked Banana Pudding with Meringue
Instead of whipped cream, top your pudding with homemade meringue. Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until golden on top.
2. Peanut Butter Banana Pudding
Add a few tablespoons of peanut butter to the pudding mix for a nutty flavor twist.
3. Chocolate Banana Pudding
Swirl chocolate chips or chocolate pudding into the mix for a rich dessert.
4. Mini Banana Pudding Cups
Perfect for parties or picnics. Use small mason jars or dessert cups to create individual servings.
5. Strawberry-Banana Layer
Add sliced strawberries between the layers for a fruity twist.
What to Serve with Banana Pudding
This dessert pairs well with Southern-style meals like:
Fried Chicken
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
BBQ Ribs
Macaroni and Cheese
Cornbread or Biscuits
It’s also a standalone treat after a light lunch or summer cookout.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Can I make banana pudding the day before?
Yes! It’s actually better the next day. Chill overnight for the best texture.
How long does it last?
Banana pudding is best within 2–3 days. After that, the bananas start to brown and the texture can get soggy.
Can I freeze banana pudding?
Freezing is not recommended. The bananas can become mushy and the pudding may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular pudding instead of instant pudding mix?
Yes. If you prefer to make a cooked custard base, that’s even more traditional. Just allow time for it to cool before layering.
Q: Are there dairy-free alternatives?
You can use almond or oat milk with a dairy-free pudding mix. For whipped topping, try coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping from the store.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free vanilla wafers. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes, especially if you’re short on time. But homemade whipped cream gives a fresher, richer taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ No baking required
✔️ Perfect make-ahead dessert
✔️ Classic Southern flavor
✔️ Family-friendly
✔️ Affordable ingredients
✔️ Easy for beginners
This banana pudding is soft, creamy, and filled with real banana flavor in every bite. It’s a nostalgic dessert that never goes out of style.
Printable Recipe Card
Southern Banana Pudding
Classic No-Bake Layered Dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Servings: 10
Ingredients:
1 (5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold whole milk
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1½ cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 box vanilla wafers
3–4 ripe bananas
Instructions:
Whisk pudding mix, milk, and condensed milk. Chill 5 min.
Whip cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Fold 2/3 of whipped cream into pudding.
Layer wafers, bananas, and pudding in a dish. Repeat.
Top with remaining whipped cream.
Chill for 4+ hours. Serve cold.
Pin It or Share It!
📌 Save this recipe to your Desserts board on Pinterest.
📤 Share it with a friend who loves old-fashioned Southern desserts.
💬 Comment below: What’s your favorite pudding memory?
