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Layered Easy Banana Pudding Trifle with vanilla wafers, bananas, and cream pudding.

Banana Pudding Trifle

A creamy and nostalgic layered dessert featuring bananas, cookies, and pudding, perfect for impressing guests without the hassle of baking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pudding Layer
  • 1 box Instant vanilla pudding mix Plus cold milk or homemade pudding.
  • 1 cup Sweetened condensed milk Optional for richer sweetness.
  • 1 container Whipped topping or freshly whipped cream Use as per preference.
Layering Ingredients
  • 1 package Vanilla wafers Classic choice; or substitute with butter cookies, shortbread, or graham crackers.
  • 4 Ripe bananas Select bananas with brown speckles for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract For extra warmth.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk according to package instructions, or prepare homemade pudding and let it cool.
  2. If using, fold the sweetened condensed milk into the pudding mixture until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the pudding mixture.
  4. Slice the bananas just before layering to prevent browning.
Layering
  1. In a large trifle bowl or individual cups, start layering by adding a layer of vanilla wafers.
  2. Add a layer of banana slices followed by a layer of the pudding mixture.
  3. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the pudding on top.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Before serving, add a handful of cookies on top for garnish.

Notes

This dessert can be made 8 to 24 hours in advance for the best flavor and texture. Store in the fridge and consume within 2 to 3 days.