Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups cold milk; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 3 cups whipped topping or homemade whipped cream; 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 box vanilla wafers or butter cookies; Optional: 1/2 tsp banana extract or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; Optional: crushed cookies or banana slices for garnish

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Classic Banana Pudding Trifle is a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert layered with creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, whipped topping, and buttery cookies. Presented in a trifle dish, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious—ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trifle offers the comforting, familiar flavors of traditional banana pudding with an elegant, layered twist. It’s easy to assemble, requires no baking, and can be made ahead of time. The combination of textures—soft bananas, creamy pudding, and crunchy cookies—makes each spoonful delightful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Sweetened condensed milk
Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
Fresh ripe bananas
Vanilla wafers or butter cookies
Optional: banana extract or vanilla bean paste for enhanced flavor
Optional: crushed cookies or banana slices for garnish

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, milk, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Let chill until slightly thickened.
Fold in whipped topping until fully combined and creamy.
In a trifle bowl or glass dish, layer cookies, banana slices, and pudding mixture.
Repeat layers, ending with pudding and a decorative topping of banana slices and crushed cookies.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften.
Serve chilled with a spoonful from each delicious layer.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10–12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Use homemade vanilla pudding or custard for a richer taste.
Add cream cheese for a tangy twist in the pudding layer.
Substitute graham crackers or shortbread cookies for vanilla wafers.
Layer in caramel drizzle or chocolate shavings for added decadence.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Not applicable—this is a chilled dessert.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made the day before to allow the layers to set and flavors to develop.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

Layer them between the pudding to minimize air exposure or lightly brush with lemon juice.

Can I use homemade pudding?

Absolutely, homemade vanilla pudding or custard adds richness.

Can I use real whipped cream?

Yes, stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar or gelatin for better texture.

What type of cookies work best?

Vanilla wafers are classic, but graham crackers or shortbread are good alternatives.

Can I add other fruit?

Sliced strawberries or blueberries can complement the banana flavor nicely.

Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Yes, kids love the familiar flavors and soft texture.

Can I make this in individual cups?

Yes, layer the ingredients in small jars or cups for single-serving presentation.

Can I freeze banana pudding trifle?

Freezing is not recommended, as it alters the texture of bananas and pudding.

Does it get soggy?

Yes, the cookies soften over time, creating a cake-like texture that’s traditional and expected.

Conclusion

Classic Banana Pudding Trifle is a timeless dessert that combines ease of preparation with unforgettable flavor. With its creamy texture, fresh bananas, and nostalgic cookie crunch, it’s a go-to recipe for every celebration or cozy family night.

Pinterest Pin Title:
Classic Banana Pudding Trifle

Pinterest Pin Description:
Layered with creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers, this banana pudding trifle is a comforting, no-bake dessert perfect for gatherings and holidays.

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Classic Banana Pudding Trifle is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, whipped topping, and buttery cookies—perfect for gatherings and family-style serving.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
3 cups whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers or butter cookies
Optional: 1/2 tsp banana extract or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
Optional: crushed cookies or banana slices for garnish

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Chill until slightly thickened, about 5–10 minutes.
Fold in whipped topping until mixture is light and creamy.
In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and pudding mixture.
Repeat the layers, finishing with a top layer of pudding.
Garnish with banana slices and crushed cookies, if desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and cookies to soften.
Serve chilled, scooping through all layers for each serving.