This No Bake Banana Pudding is the best I've ever had. The rich creamy pudding is full of flavor with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving something sweet on a lazy afternoon, this no-fuss banana pudding is ready in under 15 minutes, chilled and served with all the nostalgic vibes. Let’s dig in!
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Banana pudding is a timeless Southern favorite that’s especially popular during the warmer months—think BBQs, picnics, and potlucks. It’s cool, creamy, and hits that perfect balance of fruity and comforting. This recipe was inspired by my obsession with creamy classics like my Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie. It also pairs like a dream with this fresh and fruity Summer Fruit Tart—so go ahead and double the dessert!
💖 Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy and comforting without the baking fuss.
- Takes just 15 minutes to whip up and chill.
- Kid-friendly and a total crowd pleaser. This easy banana pudding recipe will be your new summer go-to.
🌟 Star Ingredients
- Banana Instant Pudding – it’s the flavor hero! This is your shortcut to bold banana flavor without having to wait for bananas to overripen. Trust me—it makes the whole thing come together in a flash.
- Cool Whip – top tip - thaw it first! Thaw it first, then gently fold it in for that dreamy, cloud-like texture. It keeps the pudding light and luscious. If you’re feeling fancy, go homemade—totally works too.
- Vanilla Wafers – the secret to soft crunch. These humble cookies soak up just the right amount of pudding and turn perfectly soft and cake-like. No bake banana pudding just wouldn’t be the same without them.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- Vanilla Vibes – Out of banana pudding? Swap in vanilla for a subtler twist.
- Dairy-Free? – Almond milk + non-dairy whipped topping = still delish.
- From Scratch Whipped Cream – Ditch the Cool Whip if you’re feeling chef-y.
- Jar It Up – Layer your no bake banana pudding in cute mason jars, top with sprinkles or chocolate chips, and boom—party dessert!
💡 Love a bit of crunch? Why not add some of this Chocolate Bark with Hazelnuts on top for a sweet, nutty upgrade!
🍌 How To Make No Bake Banana Pudding?
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- Step 1: In a large bowl, add your instant pudding mix along with the milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 2: Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip. Don’t stir—fold! It keeps the texture fluffy.
- Step 3: Add sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers. Fold them in with love.
- Step 4: Chill it in the fridge (10 minutes minimum, longer if you can wait!). Before serving, top with extra banana slices and more crushed cookies.
💡 Pro Tip: Got time? Let it chill longer. The wafers soften, the flavors meld, and you get that just-right texture everyone raves about.
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Be Gentle – Folding (not mixing!) keeps your pudding light and airy.
- Plan Ahead – Make this in the morning and chill until dinner. Flavors = even better.
- Banana Wisdom – Slice your bananas just before serving. A little lemon juice keeps 'em from going brown if you're prepping ahead.
💭 FAQs
Yes, and you should! A few hours in the fridge lets everything come together. Just wait to add banana slices until serving.
Slice them fresh or toss in a splash of lemon juice. Works like a charm.
Totally! Graham crackers, shortbread, even chocolate chip cookies work if you’re out of wafers or just feeling wild.
Yes! Whip your heavy cream until stiff peaks form and use it one-for-one. It’s fresh, fluffy, and fancy.
Up to 3 days in the fridge, but best within 24 hours while the bananas are still fresh and the wafers haven’t gone too soft.
💖 Serving Suggestions
These are my favorite ways to dress up no bake banana pudding for summer gatherings:
- Fresh Berry Medley – Adds bright color and a tangy twist.
- Toasted Coconut Chips – A little crunch and tropical flair.
- Ginger Snap Cookies – Adds a spicy contrast to the sweetness.
- Whipped Cream Swirl – Extra indulgent and oh-so-pretty.
Looking for the perfect Summer Menu...why not pair this dessert with these Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings and a fresh Mediterranean Green Bean Salad for a full-on flavor-packed feast.
🍽 More Super Simple Desserts
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment, drop a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, or tag me in our Facebook Group! And if you’re the bookmarking type—go ahead and pin this baby for later.
No-Bake Banana Pudding
Ingredients
- 1, 3.5 Oz Banana Instant Pudding
- 1, ½ Cup Cold Milk
- 8 Oz Cool Whip Thawed
- 2 Cups Vanilla Wafers Crushed
- 2 Bananas Sliced
Instructions
- In a large bowl add your instant banana pudding along with the milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Once the pudding has thickened, fold in the cool whip. You want to fold the cool whip in to keep your mixture thick.
- Next add in your bananas and crushed vanilla wafers by folding them in.
- Store in an airtight container if not immediately serving.
- To serve, place extra sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers on top!
Just made this no bake banana pudding and WOW—so easy and insanely good! If you’re looking for a quick dessert that everyone will love, you’ve got to try this one. It’s officially going into my summer recipe rotation!