5 Easy Banana Pudding Recipes to Try Now

Banana pudding is a dessert that has long been a favorite in American homes, loved for its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and the simplicity of its ingredients. With the combination of bananas, vanilla pudding, and cookies or wafers, this dessert brings comfort and joy to any table. Today, we'll explore five different recipes for banana pudding, each offering a unique twist on this classic treat. From traditional Southern styles to modern, health-conscious variations, there's something here for everyone.

The Classic Banana Pudding

This is the quintessential banana pudding that many of us grew up with. Here's how you can make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 1 box of vanilla wafers
  • 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
  2. In another bowl, combine the condensed milk and cold water. Mix in the pudding mix until smooth, then fold in half of the whipped cream to lighten the mixture.
  3. In a 2-quart casserole dish, start by layering wafers, bananas, then pudding. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up.
  4. Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Garnish with banana slices or additional wafers before serving.

🍌 Note: Let the pudding sit overnight if possible, as it will taste better after the flavors have melded together.

Vegan Banana Pudding Delight

For those who prefer plant-based options, here's a delicious vegan recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 6 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup of plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup sugar or sweetener
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Vegan vanilla wafers
  • Vegan whipped topping or coconut cream
• Instructions:
  1. Blend 3 bananas, milk, cornstarch, sugar, and vanilla in a blender until smooth.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan, cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened. Let it cool slightly.
  3. Layer vegan wafers, bananas, and pudding mix in a dish. Top with vegan whipped cream or coconut cream.
  4. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Healthier Banana Pudding

If you're health-conscious but still crave dessert, this version is for you:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 ripe bananas
  • 1 package (0.3 oz) sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • Whole wheat vanilla wafers
  • Sliced almonds or granola (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the pudding according to the package instructions with skim milk.
  2. Fold in Greek yogurt to add creaminess and probiotics.
  3. Layer the dish with wafers, bananas, and pudding. Sprinkle with almonds or granola for a healthy crunch.
  4. Refrigerate for several hours to set.

No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Combine the creamy textures of cheesecake with banana pudding in this no-bake recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups prepared banana pudding
  • 3 bananas, sliced
  • Whipped cream for topping
• Instructions:
  1. Mix wafer crumbs and melted butter, press into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill.
  2. Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in banana pudding.
  3. Layer half of the cream cheese mixture over the crust, then arrange banana slices. Top with remaining mixture.
  4. Chill until set, about 4-6 hours. Garnish with whipped cream before serving.

Instant Pot Banana Pudding

Make dessert quicker with this Instant Pot recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 bananas
  • Vanilla wafers
• Instructions:
  1. In a heat-safe bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk and vanilla. Add to the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water in the pot.
  3. Set to high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release.
  4. Stir the pudding, layer with bananas and wafers in serving dishes, chill until serving.

In this exploration of banana pudding recipes, we’ve covered a range from traditional to innovative. Each version offers a delightful taste experience that can cater to different dietary preferences or culinary skills. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you love bananas, these recipes provide a sweet way to enjoy this timeless dessert. The beauty of banana pudding lies in its flexibility; you can make it as simple or as fancy as you like, and it’s always a crowd pleaser.

Can I use other fruits in my banana pudding?

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Absolutely, you can mix in other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even a layer of pineapple for a tropical twist. Just ensure they complement the banana flavor.

How long can I store homemade banana pudding?

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When stored in an airtight container, homemade banana pudding can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. However, the bananas might start to brown, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is banana pudding gluten-free?

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The pudding itself can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free wafers. Check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.