Classic Southern Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade banana pudding to bring back sweet Southern memories. This no-bake banana pudding is creamy, rich, and full of nostalgic charm, just like grandma used to make. With layers of vanilla wafers, pudding, and fresh banana slices, it’s a staple dessert at potlucks, Sunday dinners, and holiday gatherings. This recipe is quick, easy, and so delicious that it’ll have folks coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
What You Need
- 3 boxes of pudding mix (2 cheesecake, 1 French vanilla)
- 2 boxes of vanilla wafers
- 2 cans of Pet milk (refrigerated)
- 1 banana
- 1 small tub of Cool Whip (extra creamy preferred)
- Splash of vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pudding Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pudding mixes.
- Add cold milk and a splash of vanilla extract.
- Beat the mixture for 5 minutes until smooth and thick.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping to make it extra creamy.
- Let the mixture rest in the fridge while preparing the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Cookies and Bananas
- Open the vanilla wafers and crush about half of one bag.
- Cut the banana into thin slices to ensure a smooth, creamy bite in every spoonful.
3. Assemble the Pudding
- Lay an even layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom and along the sides of your bowl.
- Fill any gaps at the bottom with crushed cookie pieces.
- Add a light layer of banana slices over the cookies.
- Spread a generous layer of pudding mixture over the bananas and cookies.
- Repeat the layering process until all the pudding mix is used (about three layers).
4. Final Touch and Chill
- Top the dessert with crushed cookies for a crunchy finish.
- Place the pudding in the fridge to chill for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and gives the wafers that perfect soft-yet-sturdy texture.
Pro Tip
- When arranging the cookies along the sides, place them flat-side facing out so the rounded side is inward. This creates a more even cookie layer throughout the dessert.
- If you love an extra soft pudding, let it sit overnight in the fridge. The wafers will absorb some of the moisture, making it even more melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Why This Banana Pudding is a Southern Favorite
Southern banana pudding isn’t just a dessert—it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of dish that shows up at family gatherings, church potlucks, and backyard barbecues. There’s something about the combination of sweet bananas, creamy pudding, and soft vanilla wafers that feels like a warm hug from grandma. This recipe keeps it simple, classic, and downright irresistible—just the way we love it in the South!
Final Thoughts
This banana pudding is a creamy, nostalgic dessert that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for Sunday supper, a church gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this no-bake banana pudding will quickly become a family favorite.
Go ahead, grab a spoon, and dig into a bowl of Southern comfort—you deserve it!
Let me know in the comments: Do you like your banana pudding extra creamy or a little firmer?
