Name: Southern Banana Pudding Trifle: Layers of Bananas, Vanilla Wafers, and Creamy Pudding in a Classic Southern Trifle Dessert
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 1/2 cups cold milk; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafers; 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced; Optional: whipped cream or meringue for topping

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Southern Banana Pudding Trifle is a beloved layered dessert that blends the comforting flavors of fresh bananas, silky vanilla pudding, and crisp vanilla wafers. Served in a clear trifle dish to showcase its beautiful layers, this classic Southern treat is perfect for gatherings, Sunday dinners, and holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A nostalgic dessert that’s simple to assemble but looks elegant in a trifle dish.
No baking required — uses instant pudding and store-bought wafers for convenience.
Creamy, sweet, and balanced by the fresh taste of ripe bananas.
A crowd-pleasing dessert that serves many.
Can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

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

Instant vanilla pudding mix
Whole milk or cold evaporated milk
Sweetened condensed milk (optional for added richness)
Heavy whipping cream (or frozen whipped topping)
Cream cheese (optional for tang and thickness)
Vanilla extract
Ripe bananas
Vanilla wafers (e.g., Nilla wafers)
Optional garnish: crushed cookies, whipped cream, banana slices, or mint leaves

Directions

Prepare the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with cold milk (and condensed milk if using). Let set for 5 minutes until thickened.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks (or thaw frozen whipped topping).
Combine: Gently fold whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Add vanilla extract for extra flavor. For a richer version, beat in softened cream cheese before folding in the cream.
Layer the trifle: In a glass trifle bowl or large clear dish, begin layering:
- Start with vanilla wafers on the bottom
- Add a layer of sliced bananas
- Spread a layer of pudding mixture
- Repeat layers until the dish is full, ending with a pudding layer
Chill for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly.
Garnish before serving with additional whipped cream, banana slices, or crushed vanilla wafers.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 10–12 people
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4–6 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total time: Approximately 4.5 to 6.5 hours

Variations

From-scratch pudding: Replace instant pudding with homemade vanilla custard.
Banana cream pie flavor: Add a graham cracker layer and a touch of cinnamon.
Chocolate twist: Swirl in chocolate pudding or ganache between layers.
Boozy version: Add a splash of banana liqueur to the pudding mixture for adult occasions.
Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free vanilla cookies instead of wafers.

Storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Best enjoyed within 24–48 hours for optimal banana freshness and wafer texture.
Do not freeze — freezing will alter the texture of the bananas and cream.
No reheating necessary — serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes, a stovetop vanilla custard or pastry cream works beautifully in place of instant pudding.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

Use freshly sliced bananas just before layering, and ensure they are fully covered with pudding to reduce air exposure.

Can I assemble the trifle the night before?

Absolutely. In fact, letting it chill overnight improves the flavor and texture as the layers settle.

What can I use if I don’t have a trifle bowl?

Any clear glass bowl or deep dish works well — even individual cups or mason jars for personal servings.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free milk, plant-based whipped topping, and ensure all other ingredients (like pudding mix) are dairy-free.

Are other cookies okay instead of vanilla wafers?

Yes. Shortbread cookies, butter biscuits, or graham crackers make great alternatives.

How do I prevent the pudding from being too runny?

Ensure the pudding is well set before layering. Use whole milk or reduced milk quantity if you prefer a thicker texture.

Can I add fresh berries?

Yes, strawberries or blueberries make great additions for a fruitier twist.

Will the wafers stay crispy?

They will soften over time, which is part of the classic texture. If you prefer crunch, add a fresh wafer layer just before serving.

What’s the best way to serve the trifle?

Use a long-handled spoon to scoop down through all layers, ensuring each portion includes banana, wafer, and pudding.

Conclusion

Southern Banana Pudding Trifle is a timeless dessert that delivers on both comfort and presentation. With layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and vanilla wafers, it’s no surprise this dish is a staple at Southern gatherings. Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, it’s a dessert that will never go out of style.

Southern Banana Pudding Trifle: Layers of Bananas, Vanilla Wafers, and Creamy Pudding in a Classic Southern Trifle Dessert

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Southern Banana Pudding Trifle is a classic Southern dessert featuring layers of fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and creamy vanilla pudding. This no-bake treat is perfect for gatherings and gets better as it chills.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake, Layered
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 1/2 cups cold milk
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (12 oz) box vanilla wafers
4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
Optional: whipped cream or meringue for topping

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Chill for 5–10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.
Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers.
Spread a layer of pudding mixture over the bananas.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
Top with whipped cream or crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving for best flavor and texture.