Indulge in the creamy, dreamy decadence of the Ultimate Banana Pudding, a no-bake layered dessert that is as easy to make as it is irresistible. This classic Southern favorite combines silky vanilla pudding with rich sweetened condensed milk and a touch of pure vanilla extract for ultimate flavor. Ripe banana slices and crispy vanilla wafers are lovingly layered with the luscious pudding mixture, then topped with a cloud of whipped topping for a light and airy finish. After a few hours in the fridge, the wafers become delightfully soft, allowing the flavors to harmonize in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a comforting treat, this chilled dessert offers the perfect balance of sweetness and nostalgia. Make sure to garnish with extra wafers or banana slices for a picture-perfect presentation.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix and cold whole milk. Whisk for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Gently stir in the sweetened condensed milk, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully incorporated. Set the mixture aside to rest for 5 minutes.
Fold in half of the whipped topping (8 oz) to create a light, fluffy texture. Be careful not to overmix.
Peel the bananas and slice them into 1/4-inch-thick rounds. Set aside.
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers to cover the bottom of the dish.
Add a layer of banana slices on top of the wafers, ensuring even coverage.
Spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it with a spatula to create an even layer.
Repeat the layering process (wafers, bananas, pudding) until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
Spread the remaining whipped topping (8 oz) evenly over the final layer of pudding.
Refrigerate the banana pudding for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
Just before serving, garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or additional banana slices if desired.
Calories |
5381 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 216.3 g | 277% | |
| Saturated Fat | 161.8 g | 809% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 207 mg | 69% | |
| Sodium | 2917 mg | 127% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 817.6 g | 297% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.4 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 620.7 g | ||
| Protein | 71.9 g | 144% | |
| Vitamin D | 10.1 mcg | 50% | |
| Calcium | 1979 mg | 152% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 4219 mg | 90% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.