Easy Banana Pudding is my go to dessert for those days when you want something sweet, comforting, and basically guaranteed to make people smile. You know the situation: you volunteered to bring dessert, you have zero time, and the store bakery cake feels a little too “last minute.” This is the one I pull out because it tastes like you really tried, even if you made it in a rush. It is creamy, cozy, and full of that classic banana and vanilla vibe that just works. Plus it is one of those desserts that somehow tastes even better after it hangs out in the fridge for a bit. 
The Best Banana Pudding Recipe for Trifle or 9×13 Inch Pan
I have made this in everything from a big glass trifle bowl to a basic 9×13 inch pan, and honestly both are great. If you are serving guests and you want the “wow” factor, do the trifle so people can see the layers. If you are taking it to a potluck or just feeding your family, a 9×13 is simpler and travels better.
The Story Behind This Recipe
I’m Cuts Food, the cook behind this Easy Banana Pudding. On a rainy weekend, I dialed in the flavors so it’s easy and full of cozy vibes. Easy Banana Pudding is my go to dessert for those days when you want something sweet, comforting, and basically guaranteed to make people smile. You know…
Here is the basic game plan. You are layering cookies, bananas, pudding, and a fluffy topping, then letting it chill so everything softens into that classic spoonable texture.
Quick layering steps (my no stress method)
- Start with a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Add sliced bananas in a single layer.
- Spread on pudding.
- Repeat until you run out, finishing with pudding and topping.
- Chill at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better.
If you love banana desserts as much as I do, you might also want to peek at this peanut butter banana pudding recipe sometime. It is a fun twist when you want something a little richer.
One more practical note: if you are using a trifle bowl, keep your layers a little thinner so you get more repeats. In a 9×13, I go slightly heavier on each layer because the surface area is bigger and it just makes life easier when you are spreading.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Banana Pudding Recipe
I am not saying this is magic, but it kind of is. This is the dessert I make when I need something reliable. It hits that sweet spot between homemade and effortless, which is basically what I am always chasing on busy weeks.
Here is why it keeps showing up in my fridge:
It is make ahead friendly. In fact, it wants time to chill, so you are not stuck making dessert at the last second.
It feeds a crowd. One pan goes a long way, and people always go back for “just a little more.”
It is super flexible. You can dress it up with extra toppings or keep it classic and nobody complains.
It tastes like a hug. Creamy pudding, soft cookies, and bananas that melt right into everything. It is comfort food in dessert form.
Also, if you are the kind of person who likes having a few cozy recipes lined up, I have been loving easy comfort meals lately like this easy crockpot lasagna soup recipe. Not related to pudding, but totally related to my “make life easier” philosophy.
“I made this for my dad’s birthday and everyone asked for the recipe. The best part was making it the night before and not stressing on the day of.”
Ingredients You’ll Need for Simple Banana Pudding
Let’s keep this simple and realistic. I usually make this with instant pudding because it is fast and consistent. You can absolutely make homemade pudding if you want, but this version is the one I use when I want Easy Banana Pudding without dirtying every pot in the kitchen.
My usual shopping list
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (two small boxes or one large, depending on brand)
- Cold milk (whole milk makes it extra creamy, but 2 percent works)
- Sweetened condensed milk (this is the little secret that makes it taste bakery good)
- Vanilla extract (just a splash)
- Frozen whipped topping or fresh whipped cream
- Vanilla wafers (classic, and they soften perfectly)
- Bananas (ripe but not mushy, with a few small brown freckles is ideal)
Optional but honestly nice:
A pinch of salt in the pudding mixture. It makes the sweetness taste more balanced, kind of like when you add salt to chocolate chip cookies.
If you ever want to switch up the pudding vibe, this butterscotch pudding is a really fun flavor to play with in other desserts too.
Best Banana Pudding Recipe Tips
After making Easy Banana Pudding more times than I can count, I have a few tips that save it from being just “fine” and make it actually special.
1. Use bananas that are ripe but still firm.
If they are too green, they taste bland. If they are too far gone, they get watery and a little funky in the fridge.
2. Chill time matters.
I know it is tempting to dig in right away, but the cookies need time to soften and the flavors need time to settle. Four hours is good. Overnight is the sweet spot.
3. Layer with intention.
Try to get bananas all the way to the edges so every scoop has banana. Nobody wants the sad corner piece with only pudding.
4. Save a handful of wafers for the top at the last minute.
If you like a little crunch, add a few crushed wafers right before serving. If you add them too early, they disappear into the topping.
5. Want cleaner slices in a 9×13?
Chill it overnight, then use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. It will never be as clean as brownies, but it helps.
Also, random snack thought: if you are making this for a get together and want something salty to go with it, these easy air fryer fried pickles are always a hit. Sweet plus salty snacks on the same table feels like a party.
Substitutions & Variations for Easy Banana Pudding
This is where you can make it your own. I love the classic version, but sometimes I tweak it based on what I have or who I am feeding. The goal is still that creamy, layered Easy Banana Pudding feel, just with a little personality.
Simple swaps that work
Swap the cookies: Vanilla wafers are the classic, but shortbread cookies are really good too. Even graham crackers work in a pinch, they just soften faster.
Make it extra fluffy: Fold in more whipped topping. I do this when I want it lighter, especially in summer.
Chocolate drizzle: A little chocolate syrup over the top makes it feel like a diner dessert.
Banana pudding “parfaits”: Layer everything in small cups for parties. People love having their own little dessert.
Go tropical: Add a thin layer of crushed pineapple that is well drained. It is sweet and bright, but do not overdo it or it can get watery.
Make it peanut butter style: Mix a few spoonfuls of peanut butter into the pudding or add peanut butter chips. It is so good if you love that combo.
Whatever direction you go, the big thing is keeping the layers balanced so it still tastes like banana pudding and not just a random fridge dessert.
Common Questions
How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
They will darken a bit, that is normal. Using just ripe, firm bananas helps. You can lightly brush slices with lemon juice, but do not use too much or you will taste it.
Can I make Easy Banana Pudding the day before?
Yes, and I recommend it. It is one of those desserts that improves overnight.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It is best within 2 days. It is still safe after that, but the bananas get softer and the cookies can get a little too mushy.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen topping?
Totally. Whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar and vanilla. Just know homemade whipped cream can deflate a bit over time, so it is best if you are serving it within a day.
Can I use cook and serve pudding instead of instant?
Yes, just cook it first and let it cool. It takes longer, but it works and tastes great.
A sweet, easy dessert you will make again
If you take anything from this, let it be this: Easy Banana Pudding is supposed to be relaxed, not fussy. Layer it, chill it, and let the fridge do the hard part. If you want to compare other classic versions, I have looked at The Best Banana Pudding Recipe (with Video) – Allrecipes and also this helpful Easy Banana Pudding Recipe – The First Year for extra ideas on topping and layering. Now grab some bananas and pudding mix and just go for it, because the only real mistake is not making enough for seconds.
Easy Banana Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Mix well according to package instructions.
- Add in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
- If desired, add a pinch of salt for flavor balance.
- Start with a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom of your serving dish.
- Add a single layer of sliced bananas.
- Spread a layer of pudding over the bananas.
- Repeat layering until you run out of ingredients, finishing with pudding and topping.
- Chill the finished dessert for at least 4 hours, though overnight is preferable for best results.
