Southern Banana Pudding

This Southern Banana Pudding recipe is a family favorite that's easy to make and perfect for family get-togethers. With layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a rich pudding mix, it's a dessert that's sure to please both kids and adults.

Southern Banana Pudding is a classic dessert that combines layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a creamy pudding mixture. This dish has roots in Southern cuisine and is often enjoyed at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. Its simplicity and sweet flavor make it a staple in many homes.

Why We Love This Recipe:

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, pudding, and Cool Whip creates a rich and smooth texture.
• Southern Classic: Crave-worthy!
• Quick to Prepare: This no-bake banana pudding takes only 20 minutes to put together, making it perfect for busy parents.
• Impressive Presentation: Layers of bananas and wafers make it a visually appealing dessert.

If you like this dessert recipe, you may also love our Classic Southern Peach Cobbler or Homemade Sweet Potato Pie.

Jump to:

• What Ingredients Will You Need?
• Instructions
• What Are Some Good Substitutions?
• How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
• What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
• How Should You Store This?
• What Are Some Expert Tips?
• Using Chessmen Cookies in Southern Banana Pudding
• More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
• Related
• FAQ
• 📖 Recipe
• Important Food Safety Tips
• 💬 Share Your Thoughts

What Ingredients Will You Need?

• Vanilla Wafers: These classic cookies add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the pudding.
• Bananas: Fresh, ripe bananas provide a natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Milk: Whole milk is used to create the rich pudding base.
• French Vanilla Pudding Mix: This adds a smooth, vanilla flavor to the pudding.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This sweetens the pudding and makes it extra creamy.
• Cool Whip: Light and fluffy, it gives the pudding a perfect airy texture.

Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.

Instructions

How to Make Southern Banana Pudding

STEP ONE: Prepare the Pudding Mix

Whisk together 2 cups of cold whole milk with the French vanilla pudding mix in a large mixing bowl. Set it aside until it thickens.

STEP TWO: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until well combined and no lumps remain.

Fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture.

STEP THREE: Combine the Mixtures

Fold the pudding mix into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

STEP FOUR: Layer the Pudding

In a large serving dish, create layers starting with a base of vanilla wafers. Add a layer of sliced ripe bananas over the wafers. Pour the pudding mixture over the bananas. Repeat the layers and finish with a layer of vanilla wafers on top.

Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

What Are Some Good Substitutions?

• Vanilla Wafers: Substitute with Chessmen shortbread cookies for a different style and flavor.
• Cool Whip: Use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
• Whole Milk: Substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a healthier option.

How Can You Change This Recipe Up?

• Diet-Friendly: Use sugar-free pudding mix and low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
• Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: Let kids help layer the wafers and bananas for a fun family activity.

What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?

_{This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.}

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Large serving dish (9x13)

How Should You Store This?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.

What Are Some Expert Tips?

Allow the pudding to chill for at least 4 hours to set properly and develop the flavors.

Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness in the pudding.

Using Chessmen Cookies in Southern Banana Pudding

Chess cookies, often referred to as Chessmen cookies, are buttery shortbread cookies made by Pepperidge Farm. They are a popular alternative to vanilla wafers in desserts like banana pudding because of their rich, buttery flavor and sturdy texture. The cookies have a distinctive appearance, often featuring a chess piece design embossed on them, which adds a decorative touch to the dessert.

More Recipes You'll Love ♥️

Have Leftover Ingredients?

• Use leftover vanilla wafers in a banana cream pie.
• Incorporate leftover bananas into smoothies.
• Use leftover Cool Whip in a fruit salad.

Need Something To Pair This With?

• Serve with sweet tea, iced coffee, or milk.
• Pair with a fresh fruit salad.
• Enjoy alongside a classic Southern meal like this Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy.

In The Mood For a Similar Dish?

• Easy Southern Peach Cobbler with Cake Mix
• Homemade Sweet Potato Pie
• Southern Style Bread Pudding
• Greek Rice Pudding
• Easy Philadelphia No Bake Cheesecake with Biscoff Cookie Crust

Related

More Southern recipes you will love:

FAQ

📖 Recipe

Southern Banana Pudding is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The creamy layers of pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers create a dessert that everyone will love.

Try this recipe and share your results in the comments below or explore our related posts for more delicious Southern desserts.

Important Food Safety Tips

Use fresh bananas to prevent spoilage. Keep the pudding refrigerated until ready to serve. Discard any leftovers after 3 days to ensure safety.