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
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.
Notes
Use bananas that are ripe but firm to prevent browning.
Can be made a day ahead — it tastes even better the next day.
Individual servings in jars or cups are great for parties.