Description
A simple, budget-friendly banana cream pudding made with just five ingredients. This make-ahead dessert features layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and a light, fluffy pudding mixture that tastes better the next day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boxes (5.1 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix
- 4 cups cold whole milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large box vanilla wafers (about 30–40 cookies)
- 4–5 medium ripe bananas
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Peel and slice bananas into ¼-inch rounds. Toss slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- In a separate large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a spatula until smooth and airy.
- Layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish, starting and ending with pudding.
- Ensure the top layer of pudding completely covers the bananas.
- Crush remaining vanilla wafers and sprinkle over the top for a crumble effect.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
Notes
Use cold milk for best thickening results. Do not over-whip the cream. The dessert tastes best after chilling overnight. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; do not freeze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: banana pudding, budget dessert, easy dessert, make-ahead dessert, vanilla wafers, 5 ingredient recipe, family friendly dessert