Discover the irresistible comfort of homemade banana pudding with these 10 exceptional recipes that will transform your dessert game.
From classic Southern-style versions to modern twists with caramel and chocolate, you’ll find the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Whether you prefer a quick no-bake option or a made-from-scratch masterpiece, these recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved dessert.
Get ready to explore variations featuring vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, rich custard, and pillowy meringue that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Classic Southern Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers

Classic Southern Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers is the ultimate comfort dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers into layers of pure bliss.
This beloved Southern tradition transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
Ingredients:
• 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafers
• 6 ripe bananas, sliced
• 3 cups whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped cream for topping
Step 1: Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan.
Step 2: Whisk milk and egg yolks in the saucepan until smooth.
Step 3: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
Step 4: Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 2-quart serving dish.
Step 6: Add a layer of sliced bananas, then pour one-third of the pudding mixture over them.
Step 7: Repeat layers twice more, ending with pudding.
Step 8: Top with whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers.
Step 9: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm – they’ll hold their shape better in the pudding. For the best texture, assemble your pudding no more than 8 hours before serving to prevent the wafers from becoming too soft.
No-Bake Creamy Banana Pudding Parfait

Transform your dessert game with this irresistible no-bake banana pudding parfait.
This classic Southern-inspired treat layers creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers for a perfect balance of textures and flavors that you can prepare in just minutes.
Ingredients:
• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 (12 oz) package vanilla wafer cookies
• Additional whipped topping for garnish
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Step 2: Beat cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until blended.
Step 4: Gently combine the pudding mixture with the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
Step 5: In serving glasses or a trifle dish, create layers starting with crushed vanilla wafers, followed by pudding mixture, and sliced bananas.
Step 6: Repeat layers until glasses are filled, ending with the pudding mixture on top.
Step 7: Garnish with additional whipped topping and crushed vanilla wafers.
Pro Tip: To prevent your bananas from browning, dip the slices in lemon juice before layering. Make this parfait at least 4 hours before serving to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Caramel-Swirled Banana Pudding Dream

Indulge in this heavenly twist on classic banana pudding, where smooth vanilla pudding meets ripe bananas and gets elevated with ribbons of golden caramel.
This dessert combines the comfort of traditional banana pudding with the sophisticated touch of caramel swirls, creating a showstopping treat perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 package vanilla wafer cookies
• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Whisk pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Beat cream cheese until fluffy, then mix in condensed milk and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 4: Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of a trifle dish or large bowl.
Step 5: Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by pudding mixture.
Step 6: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pudding layer.
Step 7: Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with the cream mixture.
Step 8: Create swirls on top with remaining caramel sauce.
Step 9: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Pro Tip: For the best texture and flavor, choose bananas that are ripe but still firm. Toss your banana slices in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning if you’re making this dessert in advance.
Light and Fluffy Whipped Banana Pudding

Transform your dessert game with this heavenly banana pudding that combines creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and delicate vanilla wafers into a cloud-like treat.
This classic Southern dessert gets an extra special touch with homemade whipped cream folded into the pudding mixture, creating an irresistibly light texture.
Ingredients:
• 1 (5 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 (12 oz) package vanilla wafer cookies
• Additional whipped cream for topping (optional)
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
Step 2: Beat cream cheese until smooth in a separate bowl. Add condensed milk and mix until well combined.
Step 3: In another bowl, whip heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding, then gently fold in the whipped cream.
Step 5: Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 3-quart dish, followed by banana slices and pudding mixture.
Step 6: Repeat layers, ending with the pudding mixture on top.
Step 7: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Pro Tip: Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming too mushy. To prevent your bananas from browning, try dipping them in lemon juice before layering them into your pudding.
Coconut-Crusted Tropical Banana Pudding

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this luxurious dessert that combines creamy banana pudding with a crispy coconut crust.
This indulgent treat features layers of fresh bananas, vanilla pudding, and a unique coconut-cookie base that adds the perfect tropical crunch to every spoonful.
Ingredients:
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 2 cups vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted
• 1½ cups vanilla wafer cookies, crushed
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup whipped cream
• ½ cup diced mango
• ¼ cup pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons honey
Step 1: Combine crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter and 1/2 cup toasted coconut. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch serving dish.
Step 2: Prepare vanilla pudding according to package instructions using whole milk. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Layer half the sliced bananas over the crust, then pour half the pudding mixture.
Step 4: Repeat layering with remaining bananas and pudding.
Step 5: Top with whipped cream, remaining toasted coconut, mango, and pineapple pieces.
Step 6: Drizzle honey over the top and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Toast your coconut until just golden brown to prevent burning – it can go from perfect to burnt in seconds. For the best texture, serve this pudding within 24 hours of preparation, as the bananas may start to brown after this time.
Double Chocolate Banana Pudding Supreme

A decadent twist on classic banana pudding that combines rich chocolate pudding, fresh bananas, and chocolate wafers to create a heavenly dessert.
This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or when you need to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
Ingredients:
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 package (5.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2½ cups cold whole milk
• 1 package chocolate wafer cookies
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
• 2 cups whipped cream
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Whisk the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl for 2 minutes until thickened. Refrigerate for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and melted chocolate. Fold in 1 cup of whipped cream.
Step 3: Layer chocolate wafers in a 9×13 dish. Top with half the banana slices.
Step 4: Spread half the chocolate pudding mixture over bananas, then add half the cream cheese mixture.
Step 5: Repeat layers, ending with the cream cheese mixture.
Step 6: Top with remaining whipped cream and dust with cocoa powder.
Step 7: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Pro Tip: Ensure your bananas are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming mushy. For the best texture and flavor, allow the dessert to chill overnight, letting all the layers meld together perfectly.
Butterscotch Banana Pudding Delight

Butterscotch Banana Pudding Delight is a heavenly combination of creamy butterscotch pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers that creates an irresistible dessert.
This crowd-pleasing treat brings together the nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding with rich butterscotch undertones.
Ingredients:
• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant butterscotch pudding mix
• 4 cups cold whole milk
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafers
• ¼ cup butterscotch chips for garnish
Step 1: Whisk butterscotch pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl for 2 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Step 2: Beat cream cheese until smooth in a separate bowl, then blend in sweetened condensed milk.
Step 3: Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Step 4: Gently fold the butterscotch pudding into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 5: Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 dish.
Step 6: Add a layer of sliced bananas, then pour half the pudding mixture over them.
Step 7: Repeat layers once more, ending with the pudding mixture.
Step 8: Sprinkle butterscotch chips on top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Pro Tip: To prevent your bananas from browning, dip them in lemon juice before layering. For the best texture and flavor, make this dessert the night before serving to allow the wafers to soften and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Old-Fashioned Homestyle Banana Pudding

Old-Fashioned Homestyle Banana Pudding is a classic Southern dessert that combines layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers to create a comforting treat.
This nostalgic dessert brings back memories of family gatherings and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 (12 oz) package vanilla wafers
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped cream for topping
Step 1: Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
Step 2: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to bubble and thicken (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 3: Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture while whisking constantly. Pour the tempered eggs back into the saucepan.
Step 4: Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Step 5: In a 2-quart serving dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding. Repeat layers twice.
Step 6: Top with whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Pro Tip: Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming too mushy. Also, dip your banana slices in lemon juice before layering to prevent browning if you plan to store the pudding for more than a day.
Cream Cheese Banana Pudding Spectacular

Transform your classic banana pudding into a heavenly dessert by adding cream cheese for extra richness and tanginess.
This spectacular treat combines the smoothness of vanilla pudding with layers of fresh bananas and crispy vanilla wafers, all elevated by a luxurious cream cheese mixture.
Ingredients:
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping
• 2 (12 oz) boxes vanilla wafers
• 6-7 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1: Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
Step 3: Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, beat until combined.
Step 4: Fold pudding mixture into cream cheese mixture until well blended.
Step 5: Gently fold in half of the whipped topping.
Step 6: Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 dish.
Step 7: Add a layer of sliced bananas.
Step 8: Pour half of the pudding mixture over bananas.
Step 9: Repeat layers, ending with pudding mixture.
Step 10: Top with remaining whipped topping.
Step 11: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Pro Tip: Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming too mushy. For the best texture and flavor, serve your pudding within 24 hours of preparation, as the wafers will soften over time.
Maple-Pecan Banana Pudding Paradise

Indulge in this heavenly twist on classic banana pudding, where maple syrup meets toasted pecans for an unforgettable dessert experience.
This creamy, layered delight combines the comfort of traditional banana pudding with the warm, nutty flavors of maple and pecans, creating a sophisticated dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 package vanilla wafer cookies
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 egg yolks
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Whipped cream for topping
Step 1: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
Step 2: Whisk egg yolks, maple syrup, and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth.
Step 3: Heat milk and cream in a saucepan until simmering. Slowly pour into egg mixture while whisking.
Step 4: Return mixture to saucepan, cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
Step 5: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool completely.
Step 6: Layer pudding, wafers, bananas, and pecans in a serving dish. Repeat layers.
Step 7: Top with whipped cream and remaining pecans. Chill for 4 hours.
Pro Tip: For the best texture and flavor, choose bananas that are ripe but still firm. If your pudding develops lumps while cooking, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before layering for perfectly smooth results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a traditional Southern banana pudding taste authentic?
The key elements are fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, homemade custard, and real whipped cream. Skip instant pudding mixes and opt for egg-based custard for that classic Southern flavor.
How can you prevent bananas from turning brown in your pudding?
Dip banana slices in lemon juice before layering them in your pudding. Place wafers strategically to cover exposed banana surfaces and serve within 24 hours of preparation.
What’s the secret to achieving the perfect pudding texture?
Constantly whisk your custard over medium-low heat until it thickens properly. Let each layer set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Which type of bananas work best for banana pudding?
Choose ripe but firm bananas with minimal brown spots. Slightly underripe bananas will hold their shape better and continue ripening in the pudding.
How can you make banana pudding ahead for large gatherings?
Prepare the custard and store it separately from the bananas and wafers. Assemble your pudding no more than 24 hours before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a classic Southern-style recipe or experiment with creative twists, banana pudding remains a beloved dessert that brings comfort and joy to any gathering.
Remember to use ripe bananas for the best flavor, and don’t rush the chilling process – those few extra hours make a significant difference in texture and taste.
Feel free to customize these recipes by adjusting sweetness levels or trying different cookie varieties.
With these ten variations at your fingertips, you’ll never run out of ways to impress your family and friends with this timeless treat.