Mama’s Banana Pudding is a timeless Southern dessert filled with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, and crisp vanilla wafers. It’s rich, smooth, and full of nostalgic homemade flavor that reminds you of comfort and love in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any sweet craving, this classic treat never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping or 1 cup homemade whipped cream
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 45–50 cookies)
- Optional: crushed wafers or banana slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then stir until fully combined. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- In a serving dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom, followed by banana slices, and then a layer of pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the final pudding layer. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to blend and the wafers to soften slightly.
Servings
Serves 8–10 people
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
Notes
Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from turning brown too quickly. For a richer flavor, use homemade pudding instead of instant, or layer with warm custard for a traditional Southern twist.
Tips
- To prevent bananas from browning, lightly coat the slices with lemon juice before layering.
- For extra crunch, add a few crushed vanilla wafers on top just before serving.
- You can make this dessert a day ahead—it tastes even better after sitting overnight.
- Use banana-flavored pudding instead of vanilla for a stronger banana taste.
- Chill for at least 3 hours (or overnight) for best texture and flavor.
