Banana Pudding Recipe
User Reviews
5
Banana Pudding Recipe
Description
This Banana Pudding Recipe uses a pudding base made by blending milk, sweetened condensed milk, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Once set, this pudding is folded together with whipped cream infused with sugar and vanilla to add lightness and richness. The dessert is characterized by distinct components: crisp vanilla wafer cookies, fresh banana slices cut just before assembling to prevent browning, and the creamy pudding mixture. The layering creates contrasting textures with cool softness alongside slight crunch and tender fruit.
The method of assembly distributes the pudding by dolloping rather than spreading, preserving the integrity of the cookie and banana layers throughout the dessert. Whipped cream is whipped to stiff peaks but not overwhipped, which would cause separation or curdling. Refrigeration before serving allows the pudding to set and the flavors to meld.
The trifle-style presentation with upright cookies visible enhances the dessert’s appearance. This banana pudding suits a casual get-together or family dessert where ease of preparation and make-ahead capabilities are valued. It pairs well with coffee or tea for a sweet finish to a meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk 480ml, whole, cold
- 1 (14-ounce/397g) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (5.1-ounce/144g) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream divided (720ml)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar divided
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract divided
- 1 (15-ounce/425g) box vanilla wafer cookies
- 5 large banana
Instructions
For the Pudding:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and sweetened condensed milk until combined. Sprinkle in the instant pudding, and mix until completely incorporated with no lumps remaining. You can do this by hand or with an electric mixer. Refrigerate for 5 minutes or until set.
- Add 2 cups of cream, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla to a bowl, then mix on high until stiff peaks form.
- Remove pudding from the refrigerator then fold the whipped cream into it.
- Peel the bananas and slice then into ½-inch thick coins. (I don’t like to cut them until I’m ready to assemble so the slices don’t turn brown.)
- To assemble, add a layer of cookies to the bottom of your trifle dish or a large serving bowl. Place a quarter of the pudding mixture over the cookies, then smooth using a spatula.
- Add another layer of cookies then place a row of cookies set upright against the side of the dish facing out. Add a layer of banana slices on top. Add another quarter of the pudding mixture and smooth.
- Continue layering with cookies, bananas and pudding until complete. Alternate a row of banana slices with the cookies you're pressing against the wall of the trifle dish. Chill for three hours.
For the Topping:
- Whip the remaining 1 cup of cream, remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar, and remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes. Top the pudding with the whipped cream. Pile any remaining cookies on top, crumbling up a few, along with more banana slices if desired. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Whip cream carefully and watch closely to avoid overwhipping and separation.
- Dollop pudding gently when assembling to keep the cookie and banana layers intact.
- Slice bananas just before assembling to minimize browning and keep their appearance fresh.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 607 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 607kcal | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 75g | 25% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 32g | 49% |
| Saturated Fat | 18g | 90% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Trans Fat | 0.1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 84mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 293mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 477mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 52g | 104% |
| Vitamin A | 1065IU | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 187mg | 19% |
| Iron | 0.3mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.