There are desserts that politely sit on the table.

And then there is banana pudding.

It does not matter how full everyone claims to be. The second this creamy, layered beauty hits the table, spoons appear from nowhere. Someone always says, “Just a small scoop,” and somehow goes back for thirds.

This version is the classic, no-bake, ultra-creamy kind — the one with soft vanilla wafers, sweet bananas, and fluffy pudding that melts together after a chill in the fridge.

It is simple. It is nostalgic. And it never lasts long.

Ingredients (Serves About 20)

1. 2 cups cold milk
2. 1 (5-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
3. 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
4. 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
5. 1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
6. 1 (16-ounce) package vanilla wafers
7. 12 small bananas, sliced (or more if you love extra bananas)

How to Make Banana Pudding

1. Make the Pudding Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant pudding mix for about 2 minutes until thickened.

Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fully combined.

2. Add Flavor and Fluff

Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and creamy.

3. Layer It Up

In a large glass bowl or trifle dish:

• Start with a layer of vanilla wafers
• Add a layer of sliced bananas
• Spread a layer of pudding mixture

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.

4. Chill

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving (longer is even better — 3 to 4 hours makes it extra soft and dreamy).

Just before serving, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top for a little crunch.

Why This Recipe Works?

• No Baking Required – Perfect for warm days or busy holidays.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – It actually tastes better after chilling.
• Creamy and Light – The whipped topping keeps it fluffy instead of heavy.
• Crowd Pleaser – Serves about 20, ideal for gatherings.
• Softened Wafers – After chilling, they become cake-like and irresistible.

Helpful Tips

1. Use bananas that are ripe but still firm — too soft and they turn mushy.
2. Slice bananas right before layering to reduce browning.
3. If making a day ahead, press plastic wrap gently onto the surface to prevent discoloration.
4. For neat layers, use a clear glass bowl so the layers show beautifully.

Easy Variations

• From-Scratch Upgrade: Use homemade vanilla pudding instead of instant.
• Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce between layers.
• Banana Cream Dream: Add a thin layer of cream cheese blended with a little sugar.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips between layers.
• Individual Cups: Layer in mason jars for single servings.
• Extra Banana Flavor: Add a few drops of banana extract to the pudding mixture.

Storage

1. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Best eaten within 24 hours for freshest bananas.
3. Not freezer-friendly — the texture changes too much.

The Best Part

The magic happens in the fridge.

1. The wafers soften.
2. The bananas blend into the cream.
3. The pudding sets into silky layers.

And when you scoop down through all three at once? That is the bite everyone fights over.

If you are bringing dessert somewhere and want zero leftovers — this is the one.