Name: Old School Banana Pudding Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake layers); 3 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 1/2 cups cold milk; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping or homemade whipped cream; 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers; Optional: 1/2 tsp banana extract

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Old School Banana Pudding Cake is a nostalgic Southern dessert combining layers of moist cake, creamy banana pudding, and fresh banana slices. It’s a showstopping treat perfect for holidays, potlucks, or casual family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake delivers everything you love about classic banana pudding in cake form—moist layers, creamy filling, and a beautiful presentation. It’s easy to assemble and offers comforting flavors that appeal to all ages.

ingredients

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

Yellow cake mix or homemade vanilla cake
Ripe bananas (sliced)
Vanilla pudding mix
Milk
Sweetened condensed milk
Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
Vanilla wafers (crushed)
Optional: banana extract

directions

Bake Cake: Prepare cake layers as directed. Cool completely.
Prepare Pudding: Whisk pudding mix with milk and condensed milk until thick. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread pudding, add banana slices, and top with another layer. Repeat.
Top and Garnish: Cover with whipped topping and sprinkle crushed wafers on top. Add banana slices for garnish.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 12.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

Use Chocolate Cake: For a chocolate-banana twist.
Add Peanut Butter: Swirl into pudding for extra richness.
No-Bake Version: Use graham crackers instead of cake layers.
Banana Cream Cheese Frosting: For extra indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, covered tightly. Not suitable for freezing due to the fresh bananas and pudding texture.

FAQs

Can I use boxed pudding mix?

Yes, instant vanilla pudding works great in this recipe.

Can I make it the night before?

Yes, it tastes even better after sitting overnight.

How do I keep bananas from browning?

Use a little lemon juice on banana slices to preserve color.

Can I use fresh whipped cream?

Yes, just stabilize it with powdered sugar or gelatin if storing.

Can I use banana cake mix?

Absolutely—it intensifies the banana flavor.

What’s the best garnish?

Fresh banana slices, crushed vanilla wafers, or a drizzle of caramel.

Can I make it in a trifle bowl?

Yes, layer all components in a trifle dish for a stunning no-fuss version.

Can I omit the sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, but the filling will be less rich and sweet.

What’s the best way to slice it?

Use a serrated knife and clean between cuts for neat slices.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a family favorite with simple ingredients and familiar flavors.

Conclusion

Old School Banana Pudding Cake is a nostalgic and indulgent dessert that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its creamy texture and banana-forward flavor make it a timeless favorite.

Old School Banana Pudding Cake

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Old School Banana Pudding Cake is a nostalgic Southern-style dessert that layers moist vanilla cake with creamy banana pudding, fresh banana slices, whipped topping, and crushed vanilla wafers for a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake layers)
3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Optional: 1/2 tsp banana extract

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Instructions

Prepare and bake cake layers according to package directions or homemade recipe. Let cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and sweetened condensed milk until thickened. Stir in banana extract if using. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of pudding on top, add banana slices, then top with another cake layer. Repeat as needed depending on the number of layers.
Cover the entire cake with whipped topping. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top.
Garnish with additional banana slices if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.