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Magnolia-Style Banana Pudding – Creamy and Sweet

Magnolia-Style Banana Pudding – Creamy and Sweet

Creamy Magnolia-style banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, silky vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped cream. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, and make-ahead entertaining.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

For the Pudding Mixture

  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1½ cups cold whole milk
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar

For the Layers

  • 5 medium ripe bananas
  • 11 ounces vanilla wafer cookies

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Vanilla Pudding: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl until smooth and thickened. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then whisk until fully combined.
  • Whip the Cream: Add the cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar to a separate bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until soft-to-medium peaks form.
  • Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the vanilla pudding mixture using a rubber spatula. Fold until smooth and fluffy without overmixing.
  • Slice the Bananas: Peel and slice the bananas into even rounds. Use bananas that are ripe and sweet but still firm.
  • Create the First Layer: Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers across the bottom of a 9x13-inch glass dish. Add a layer of banana slices over the cookies.
  • Add the Pudding: Spread a generous layer of the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
  • Repeat and Garnish: Repeat the layers of vanilla wafers, bananas, and pudding. Finish with a smooth pudding layer and decorate with reserved vanilla wafers and fresh banana slices.
  • Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Chilling allows the wafers to soften and the flavors to meld together.

Notes

 
  • Use ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture.
  • Chill the pudding for at least 4 hours before serving so the vanilla wafers soften properly.
  • For the freshest appearance, add decorative banana slices and extra vanilla wafers shortly before serving.
  • Keep the pudding refrigerated and enjoy within 2–3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended because the bananas and creamy pudding can become watery after thawing.
  • This is a no-bake dessert, so no reheating is necessary.
 

Nutrition Facts

 
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 82 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g
  • Total Sugars: 61 g
  • Protein: 9 g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on the brands of pudding mix, vanilla wafers, condensed milk, milk, and heavy cream used.