Let me show you just how easy this creamy banana pudding comes together! No stove, just mix, layer, and chill. This instant version is quick, simple, and still gives you that classic Southern flavor.
This easy, creamy banana pudding is my favorite recipe for when I want a crowd-pleaser without all the fuss. I grew up on this banana pudding, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why I prefer it over most homemade versions.
It uses instant pudding mix with sour cream and Cool Whip, fresh bananas, and layers of vanilla wafer cookies. It’s so whipped, rich, and addictive, and literally comes together in minutes!
I made this banana pudding for a holiday party, and a pilot was there, and his exact words were, “I’ve had banana pudding from all over the world, but this stuff is first class!” I never seemed to forget that because wow what a compliment, right!?!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding
No cooking required. You just need to mix, layer, and chill. Done!
Ready in minutes. Perfect for a last-minute gathering or when you need a dessert for a crowd.
Beginner-Friendly. This banana pudding recipe is so easy that even kids can make it.
Tested & Perfected. I’ve been making and eating this recipe for over 30 years! It’s a family favorite!
Mo’s Recipe Testing Tips
Add a pinch of salt to the instant pudding. This step is optional, but it really gives the instant pudding a homemade taste.
Chill for at least 30-60 minutes. This allows everything to firm up perfectly.
Use a mixer to combine the ingredients for the best whipped texture.
Use a good-quality pudding mix or one that’s your favorite. (Stick to Vanilla or French vanilla pudding, not banana flavor) This will give you the most authentic taste.
Use slightly underripe bananas since they are firmer and will hold up better.
How to Make Easy Banana Pudding (Step-By-Step)
Mix together pudding and milk.Mix in sour cream and Cool WhipLayer cookies and bananaTop with pudding and repeat.Add a layer of Cool Whip and more cookies. Chill.
Get the Recipe:
Easy Banana Pudding
4.67 from 126 ratings
This is the Easiest Banana Pudding recipe that everyone loves. Make sure you double the recipe because it goes fast!
23.4 ozInstant Vanilla pudding(or French Vanilla pudding)
2cupswhole milk
8oz.sour cream
8oz.Cool Whip
pinchsalt (optional)
1boxNilla Wafers(You won't need the whole unless you just really like nilla wafers)
3large bananas(A little underripe)
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix together the pudding and milk until creamy. (Pudding will be thick)
2 3.4 oz Instant Vanilla pudding, 2 cups whole milk
Mix in the sour cream and 4 oz (half the container) of cool whip.
8 oz. Cool Whip, 8 oz. sour cream
Add pinch of salt if desired.
pinch salt
In a deep dish, add a layer of nilla wafers and chopped bananas.
1 box Nilla Wafers, 3 large bananas
Spread on half of the pudding mixture.
Repeat the layering process again, ending with the pudding mixture.
Gently, spread on the remaining Cool Whip.
Arrange more wafers on top for decoration. (I like to crush a few up)
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Serve cold.
Video
Notes
TIPS Don’t use banana-flavored pudding. Make individual servings by layering in clear cups. So cute! Feel free to layer and decorate how you please. Wanna change up the cookie? Try Chessman cookies! Wanna add something unique? Sliced strawberries add a special touch!
How can I make this banana pudding taste even more homemade? Add a pinch of salt to the pudding. Also, try replacing some of the milk with half-and-half or whipping cream. If you have a few extra minutes to spare, making homemade whipped cream instead of using Cool Whip is a game-changer!
Can I make this banana pudding the night before? Yes, but I prefer it the day of. The bananas can get a bit darker by the next day. It’s always best prepared and served the day it’s made. It will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger dish? Absolutely! It disappears fast!
“Call the Police” yes that’s what I said. Because I thought someone stole the Banana Pudding this Thanksgiving. I took it out the fridge placed on the dessert table and when I came back it was gone. Another 2024 hit. I still have wafers so I will make another one for Christmas or New Years! They love it! Thank you Diva.
In Monique we trust. Her recipes are always a hit. If you’re looking for a light, airy banana pudding that isn’t too sweet, this is your recipe. Trust me- you cannot taste the sour cream, it’s NOT tangy, you do not need to fix this recipe. I got so many compliments from making this recipe!
Easy and yummy. I bring the banana pudding every holiday and it’s always eaten! ❤️❤️ Thanks for making simple but yummy recipes
“Call the Police” yes that’s what I said. Because I thought someone stole the Banana Pudding this Thanksgiving. I took it out the fridge placed on the dessert table and when I came back it was gone. Another 2024 hit. I still have wafers so I will make another one for Christmas or New Years! They love it! Thank you Diva.
This recipe is perfect! I’m telling you, it gets better the next day! It’s a hit for Thanksgiving, birthdays, work potlucks! Make this!
Really looking forward to trying this
In Monique we trust. Her recipes are always a hit. If you’re looking for a light, airy banana pudding that isn’t too sweet, this is your recipe. Trust me- you cannot taste the sour cream, it’s NOT tangy, you do not need to fix this recipe. I got so many compliments from making this recipe!