There’s something timeless about a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
This Banana Pudding Recipe from Magnolia Bakery has layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped cream, ripe bananas, and crunchy wafers.
It’s a crowd-pleasing classic that’s as comforting as it is impressive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The pudding is rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet.
Whipped cream makes the texture light and fluffy without being heavy.
Layers of bananas and wafers add freshness and crunch.
It’s an iconic dessert that looks stunning in a trifle dish.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Sweetened condensed milk adds creamy sweetness and body.
Instant vanilla pudding keeps the recipe simple and foolproof.
Heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks, gives a luscious, airy texture.
Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and freshness.
Vanilla wafers soften into a cake-like layer after chilling.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy layers.
Chill the pudding before folding it into the cream for the best texture.
Layer evenly for a beautiful presentation.
Let it rest in the fridge for several hours so the flavors meld.
How to Make Banana Pudding Recipe Magnolia Bakery
Step 1 – Prepare the pudding
Whisk cold water and sweetened condensed milk.
Add instant pudding mix and whisk until smooth. Chill until set.
Step 2 – Whip the cream
Beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Step 3 – Combine pudding and cream
Fold chilled pudding into the whipped cream until evenly blended.
Step 4 – Layer the dessert
In a trifle dish, arrange pudding mixture, wafers, and banana slices in layers.
Repeat until filled, ending with pudding.
Step 5 – Garnish and chill
Top with extra wafers, cover, and refrigerate for 4–6 hours before serving.
What to Serve Them With
Enjoy as the star of a dessert table at gatherings.
Serve with coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
Pair with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies for a twist.
Try strawberries or peaches instead of bananas.
Use banana-flavored pudding for extra banana flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Best enjoyed fresh before bananas brown.
Not suitable for freezing due to texture changes.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes, it actually tastes better when chilled overnight.
How do I keep bananas from browning?
Use ripe but firm bananas and fully cover them with pudding layers.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, but it will take longer to prepare. Instant pudding saves time.
Do I need a trifle dish?
No, any deep glass bowl or dish will work fine.
Can I substitute whipped topping for heavy cream?
Yes, whipped topping works, but fresh cream gives a richer taste.
How long does this pudding last in the fridge?
Up to 2 days, though the bananas may soften by then.
Can I use different cookies?
Absolutely, shortbread or graham crackers make tasty alternatives.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s creamy, sweet, and a hit with children.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based pudding mix, non-dairy milk, and coconut cream.
Does this recipe taste like the one from Magnolia Bakery?
Yes, it’s their famous signature dessert, recreated for home kitchens.
Final Thoughts
Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Pudding is a dessert worth making again and again.
It’s creamy, light, and layered with just the right balance of textures.
Perfect for gatherings or as a special treat, this recipe never fails to impress.
