14 Amazing Banana Pudding Recipes That’ll Make Grandma Proud
Nothing beats the creamy comfort of homemade banana pudding with its layers of vanilla wafers and fresh bananas. These tried-and-true recipes bring together the perfect balance of custard, fruit, and cookies.
From traditional Southern classics to creative twists, each recipe delivers that nostalgic taste that makes banana pudding such a beloved dessert.
01. Old-Fashioned Kentucky Banana Pudding
Rich homemade custard forms the heart of this traditional banana pudding recipe. The silky smooth texture and authentic flavor make this version absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients: 3 cups whole milk, 3 large egg yolks, ½ cup granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 4 ripe bananas, 1 box vanilla wafers, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 3 tablespoons powdered sugar.
How To Make Old-Fashioned Kentucky Banana Pudding
1. Heat milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Watch carefully to prevent scorching, which can ruin the custard’s smooth texture.
2. Whisk egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in a separate bowl until smooth and pale yellow. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until thick enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Slice bananas into ¼-inch rounds and layer half in a 9×13 dish with half the vanilla wafers. Pour half the custard over top, then repeat layers. Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming and chill for 4 hours.
5. Whip cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and spread over chilled pudding before serving.
02. Southern-Style Baked Banana Pudding
This baked version creates a golden top layer while keeping the inside creamy and custard-like. The vanilla wafers become perfectly tender after soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Ingredients: 6 large egg yolks, ½ cup sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 2 cups whole milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 5 very ripe bananas, 1 box vanilla wafers, 3 large egg whites, ¼ cup sugar for meringue.
How To Make Southern-Style Baked Banana Pudding
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 2-quart baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Create the custard by whisking egg yolks with ½ cup sugar and cornstarch until completely smooth. Heat milk in a saucepan until just steaming, then gradually whisk into the egg mixture to temper it properly.
3. Return custard to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened to a pudding consistency that coats your spoon. This takes about 6-8 minutes of patient stirring.
4. Layer half the vanilla wafers in your prepared dish, top with sliced bananas, then half the custard. Repeat layers, ensuring the top layer is custard for even browning.
5. Beat egg whites until foamy, gradually add remaining sugar, and whip to stiff peaks. Spread meringue over pudding, sealing edges completely.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until meringue is golden brown and pudding is set when gently shaken.
03. Traditional Homemade Banana Pudding
This family heirloom recipe creates layers of pure comfort food magic. Every bite delivers the perfect combination of creamy pudding, soft bananas, and tender vanilla wafers.
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk, 3 large eggs, ½ cup sugar, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 4 medium bananas, 1 box vanilla wafers, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar.
How To Make Traditional Homemade Banana Pudding
1. Combine milk, eggs, sugar, and flour in a medium saucepan, whisking until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. This smooth base ensures your pudding won’t have any grainy texture.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, until it thickens to a custard consistency that coats the back of a spoon, approximately 10-12 minutes of continuous stirring.
3. Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla extract. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the hot custard to prevent a skin from forming while it cools slightly.
4. Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 dish, add sliced bananas, then pour one-third of the warm custard over top. Repeat layers twice, ending with custard on top.
5. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form and spread over the final layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the flavors to meld beautifully together.
04. Mama’s Classic Banana Pudding
This beloved Southern dessert recipe brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor impact. The secret lies in using perfectly ripe bananas and letting everything chill overnight.
Ingredients: 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold whole milk, 1 container frozen whipped topping (thawed), 1 box vanilla wafers, 4-5 ripe bananas, 1 can sweetened condensed milk.
How To Make Mama’s Classic Banana Pudding
1. Whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl for 2 minutes until completely smooth and thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set up before proceeding with the next step.
2. Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture until evenly combined, creating a light and fluffy base that’s not too dense or heavy.
3. Slowly stir in the sweetened condensed milk, which adds extra richness and helps bind all the flavors together beautifully in each creamy spoonful.
4. Line the bottom of a 9×13 dish with vanilla wafers, add a layer of sliced bananas, then spread one-third of the pudding mixture over top using a spatula.
5. Continue layering wafers, bananas, and pudding until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
05. Meringue-Topped Banana Pudding
Fluffy golden meringue crowns this elegant banana pudding with impressive visual appeal. The contrast between the cool custard and warm toasted meringue creates an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients: 4 large egg yolks, ½ cup sugar, ¼ cup cornstarch, 2½ cups whole milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 4 ripe bananas, 1 box vanilla wafers, 4 large egg whites, ½ cup sugar for meringue, ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar.
How To Make Meringue-Topped Banana Pudding
1. Whisk egg yolks, ½ cup sugar, and cornstarch in a heavy saucepan until smooth and well combined. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming in your custard base.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens enough to coat a spoon heavily, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for that classic flavor.
3. Layer vanilla wafers and sliced bananas alternately in a 2-quart baking dish, then pour the warm custard over everything, making sure it seeps between all the layers evenly.
4. Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy, then gradually add remaining sugar while beating until stiff, glossy peaks form that hold their shape when you lift the beaters.
5. Spread meringue over the pudding, making sure to seal it completely to the edges of the dish to prevent shrinking during baking.
6. Preheat your broiler and place the dish 4 inches from heat for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully, until the meringue turns golden brown on the peaks.
06. Ultra-Creamy Banana Pudding
This incredibly smooth and rich version uses cream cheese for extra decadence. The luxurious texture makes every spoonful feel like a special occasion treat.
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix, 3 cups cold milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 box vanilla wafers, 5 ripe bananas.
How To Make Ultra-Creamy Banana Pudding
1. Beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until completely smooth and fluffy, with no lumps remaining. This step is crucial for achieving that ultra-creamy texture everyone will rave about.
2. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, beating continuously until the mixture is perfectly smooth and well incorporated throughout.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened, then fold this into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.
4. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the pudding mixture, being careful not to deflate the airy texture.
5. Create layers by alternating vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and the creamy pudding mixture in a large glass bowl or 9×13 dish, ending with pudding on top.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the wafers to soften and all the flavors to meld together into banana pudding perfection.
07. From-Scratch Banana Pudding Pie
All the classic banana pudding flavors transformed into an elegant pie format. The homemade custard filling and vanilla wafer crust create a sophisticated twist on the beloved dessert.
Ingredients: 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers, 6 tablespoons melted butter, 4 large egg yolks, ⅔ cup sugar, ⅓ cup cornstarch, 3 cups whole milk, 3 tablespoons butter, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 3 ripe bananas, 2 cups heavy cream, 3 tablespoons powdered sugar.
How To Make From-Scratch Banana Pudding Pie
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and mix crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, creating an even layer up the sides.
2. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from oven and let cool completely while you prepare the custard filling.
3. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a heavy saucepan until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming in your custard base.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding consistency that coats your spoon, about 10-12 minutes of patient stirring.
5. Remove from heat and whisk in butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Layer sliced bananas in the cooled crust, then pour hot custard over top.
6. Press plastic wrap directly onto the custard surface and refrigerate for 4 hours. Before serving, whip cream with powdered sugar and spread over the chilled pie.
08. Double-Layer Banana Pudding
Extra vanilla wafer layers make this version incredibly satisfying and texturally interesting. The generous amount of cookies creates the perfect pudding-to-wafer ratio in every bite.
Ingredients: 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix, 4 cups cold milk, 1 container frozen whipped topping (thawed), 2 boxes vanilla wafers, 6 ripe bananas, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, additional vanilla wafers for garnish.
How To Make Double-Layer Banana Pudding
1. Prepare both boxes of instant pudding with the cold milk according to package directions, whisking for 2 minutes until completely smooth and thickened to the proper consistency.
2. Fold the thawed whipped topping into the prepared pudding along with the sweetened condensed milk, creating a rich and fluffy base for your layers.
3. Cover the bottom of a large glass bowl with vanilla wafers, standing some around the edges for an attractive presentation that showcases all the beautiful layers.
4. Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spread one-quarter of the pudding mixture over top, making sure to reach all the edges of the bowl.
5. Repeat the layering process three more times, using extra vanilla wafers between each layer for that signature texture and crunch contrast.
6. Crush additional vanilla wafers and sprinkle over the top layer for garnish. Refrigerate overnight to allow the wafers to soften and flavors to develop fully.
09. Quick No-Bake Banana Pudding
Ready in just minutes, this speedy version delivers all the classic flavors without any waiting time. Perfect for last-minute gatherings when you need dessert fast.
Ingredients: 2 boxes instant banana pudding mix, 3 cups cold milk, 1 container whipped topping, 1 box vanilla wafers, 4 ripe bananas, ½ cup chopped pecans (optional).
How To Make Quick No-Bake Banana Pudding
1. Whisk both boxes of instant pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Let stand for 5 minutes to fully set up before continuing.
2. Gently fold in half the container of whipped topping, creating a light and airy pudding base that’s not too dense or heavy for this quick version.
3. Line the bottom of your serving dish with vanilla wafers, then add a layer of freshly sliced bananas for that classic banana pudding foundation.
4. Spread half the pudding mixture over the bananas, then repeat with another layer of wafers, bananas, and the remaining pudding mixture on top.
5. Top with the remaining whipped topping and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired for extra crunch and visual appeal. Serve immediately or chill briefly.
10. Whipped Cream Banana Pudding
Fresh whipped cream instead of frozen topping creates an incredibly light and airy texture. This version tastes remarkably fresh and homemade with every single spoonful.
Ingredients: 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 box vanilla wafers, 4 ripe bananas, extra whipped cream for topping.
How To Make Whipped Cream Banana Pudding
1. Prepare instant pudding with cold milk according to package directions, whisking until smooth and thickened. Set aside while you prepare the fresh whipped cream component.
2. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until soft peaks form that hold their shape but aren’t overly stiff.
3. Gently fold two-thirds of the whipped cream into the prepared pudding, being careful not to deflate the airy texture you just created.
4. Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 dish, add sliced bananas, then spread half the pudding mixture over everything evenly.
5. Repeat layering with remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture, creating distinct layers that look beautiful when served from the dish.
6. Top with the remaining fresh whipped cream and chill for 2-3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
11. Lightning-Fast Banana Pudding
This incredibly simple version comes together in under ten minutes from start to finish. Despite the speed, it delivers all the creamy satisfaction you expect from banana pudding.
Ingredients: 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, 1 container frozen whipped topping (thawed), 1 box vanilla wafers, 3 ripe bananas.
How To Make Lightning-Fast Banana Pudding
1. Whisk instant pudding mix with cold milk for exactly 2 minutes until completely smooth and properly thickened according to the package directions.
2. Immediately fold in the thawed whipped topping until evenly combined, creating a light and fluffy pudding base in just seconds.
3. Quickly layer vanilla wafers in your serving dish, add sliced bananas, then spread the pudding mixture over top, working efficiently to maintain the light texture.
4. Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate briefly if you prefer it slightly chilled before presenting to your guests.
12. Grandma’s Memory-Lane Banana Pudding
This cherished family recipe relies on simple techniques passed down through generations. The old-fashioned approach creates layers of nostalgic flavor that taste like childhood memories.
Ingredients: 3 cups whole milk, 4 large egg yolks, ¾ cup sugar, ⅓ cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 box vanilla wafers, 5 ripe bananas, 3 large egg whites, 6 tablespoons sugar for meringue.
How To Make Grandma’s Memory-Lane Banana Pudding
1. Heat milk in a heavy saucepan over medium heat until steaming hot but not boiling, watching carefully to prevent scorching that could ruin the delicate flavor.
2. Whisk egg yolks, ¾ cup sugar, and flour in a bowl until smooth, then slowly add the hot milk while whisking constantly to create a smooth custard base.
3. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thick enough to coat a spoon heavily, about 10 minutes of patient stirring.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Layer vanilla wafers and sliced bananas in a baking dish, then pour the warm custard over everything.
5. Beat egg whites until foamy, gradually add remaining sugar, and whip to stiff peaks. Spread meringue over pudding, sealing edges completely.
6. Brown under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden peaks form, watching carefully to prevent burning the delicate meringue topping.
13. Five-Star Banana Pudding
This highly-rated recipe has earned thousands of glowing reviews for good reason. The perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it absolutely irresistible to everyone who tries it.
Ingredients: 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 box vanilla wafers, 4 ripe bananas.
How To Make Five-Star Banana Pudding
1. Prepare instant pudding with cold milk according to package directions, whisking for 2 minutes until smooth and completely thickened to the proper consistency.
2. Stir in sweetened condensed milk until evenly combined, creating an extra-rich base that gives this recipe its signature indulgent flavor profile.
3. Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the pudding mixture, being careful not to overmix and deflate the cream.
4. Layer vanilla wafers in the bottom of your serving dish, add sliced bananas, then spread one-third of the pudding mixture over the fruit.
5. Repeat layers twice more, ending with pudding on top for the most attractive presentation when serving to your family and guests.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the wafers to soften and all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
14. Japanese-Style Banana Rice Pudding
This unique fusion combines creamy rice pudding with banana flavors for an interesting twist. The rice adds wonderful texture while maintaining that beloved banana pudding taste profile.
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked white rice, 2 cups whole milk, ⅓ cup sugar, 2 large egg yolks, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 ripe bananas (mashed), 1 banana (sliced), ground cinnamon for garnish.
How To Make Japanese-Style Banana Rice Pudding
1. Combine cooked rice, milk, and sugar in a heavy saucepan, stirring well to dissolve the sugar completely before heating the mixture over medium heat.
2. Cook the rice mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes creamy and the rice has absorbed most of the milk, creating a pudding-like consistency.
3. Whisk egg yolks in a small bowl, then slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot rice mixture to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling.
4. Stir the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes more, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens slightly from the eggs.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and mashed bananas until completely incorporated, creating a smooth and flavorful banana rice pudding base.
6. Serve warm or chilled, topped with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for extra warmth and visual appeal that makes this dessert special.
Final Thoughts
These banana pudding recipes offer something special for every taste preference and skill level. From quick no-bake versions to elaborate meringue-topped creations, each one delivers that beloved comfort food satisfaction.
Whether you choose a traditional family recipe or try an creative twist, you’ll create dessert memories that last for generations to come.
