Introduction
Mama’s Banana Pudding is the kind of dessert that shows up at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and holidays—and disappears fast. Creamy, sweet, and layered with tender bananas and vanilla wafers, this Southern-style favorite is pure comfort in a bowl. Made with simple pantry ingredients and no baking required, it’s timeless, nostalgic, and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
1 box (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers (Nilla Wafers or similar)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and vanilla instant pudding mix for about 2 minutes until thickened.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then whisk again until smooth and fully combined.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. Do not overmix.
Slice the bananas just before assembling to keep them fresh.
Methods (Layering the Pudding)
In a large glass dish or trifle bowl, place a single layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers.
Spread a generous layer of pudding mixture over the bananas.
Repeat the layers—wafers, bananas, pudding—until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Optional: Crumble a few wafers on top or add banana slices for decoration.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and the wafers to soften.
History
Banana pudding became popular in the Southern United States in the early 20th century when bananas became widely available and affordable. With the introduction of boxed pudding mixes and vanilla wafers, this dessert quickly became a staple at church suppers, picnics, and family reunions. “Mama’s” version is often passed down, slightly different in every household, but always made with love.
Benefits
Bananas provide potassium and natural sweetness.
No-bake recipe saves time and energy.
Perfect for feeding a crowd.
Can be made ahead, making it ideal for gatherings.
Comforting and nostalgic, bringing people together.
Formation (Texture & Flavor)
This pudding forms soft, creamy layers with tender bananas and cake-like wafers after chilling. The condensed milk adds richness, while the whipped topping gives it a light, airy finish. Each spoonful is smooth, sweet, and perfectly balanced.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 320–350
Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
Fat: 12–15 g
Protein: 6–8 g
Sugar: 30+ g
(Values vary based on portion size and brands used.)
Conclusion
Mama’s Banana Pudding isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory-maker. Easy, comforting, and irresistibly creamy, it’s the kind of recipe you really don’t want to lose. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s been cherished for generations.
Loved By
Families and kids
Potluck and holiday guests
Banana dessert lovers
Anyone who loves classic, no-fuss sweets