There is something utterly joyful about scooping into a creamy, nostalgic Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle — layers of pillowy pudding, fluffy whipped cream, tender bananas, and those classic vanilla wafers, all mingling together in a perfect party of flavors. This dessert captures the golden charm of Southern favorites while keeping things easy and accessible, thanks to instant pudding and a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or simply treating your family, the Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle is a sweet showstopper that delights every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the pudding:
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
For assembly:
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
- Whipped cream and crushed cookies for garnish (optional)
How to Make Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle
Step 1: Make the Pudding Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and whisking together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. In just about 2 minutes, the mixture will thicken to a luxurious, pudding-like texture. This step is all about building that rich backbone of the Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle.
Step 2: Whisk in Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Next, add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract right into your thickened pudding. Give it a good whisk until everything is smooth and glossy. The condensed milk’s silky sweetness and the aromatic vanilla really set this trifle apart from ordinary pudding desserts.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate, chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until you get stiff, fluffy peaks. This might seem fancy, but it’s all about adding that cloud-like lightness. When folded into the pudding, it makes the whole Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle feel impossibly airy.
Step 4: Fold Cream into Pudding Mixture
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Take your time and use gentle motions — you want to keep all that lovely loft! Once everything is thoroughly combined and the pudding is lightened up to perfection, you’re ready to assemble.
Step 5: Layer the Trifle
Here’s where the magic happens: In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, start by laying down an even layer of vanilla wafer cookies. Top with a single layer of banana slices, then add a generous spoonful of the pudding mixture. Continue layering cookies, bananas, and pudding until you’ve used everything up, finishing with a smooth layer of the pudding mixture on top. This approach gives your Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle those eye-catching stripes and layers everyone loves.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Cover the trifle and slide it into the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have time. Chilling not only melds all the flavors but also softens the cookies into a cake-like consistency that makes every bite dreamy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, top with clouds of whipped cream and scatter a handful of crushed vanilla wafers for a little crunch. These final touches turn your Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle into a true dessert centerpiece!
How to Serve Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle
Garnishes
A generous crown of whipped cream and a sprinkling of crushed cookies are classic finishing touches. If you’re feeling fancy, try a few fresh banana slices (dipped in lemon juice to keep them bright) or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.
Side Dishes
Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle is substantial enough to shine on its own, but it’s lovely alongside a fresh fruit salad or served after a light lunch. For a Southern-inspired feast, pair it with iced tea and maybe a savory cheese board to balance all that sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, scoop your Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle into individual mason jars or small glasses for effortless serving and adorable presentation. Layer it in a large, clear bowl for dramatic effect, or use mini trifle bowls so everyone gets their own little show-stopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle can be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more over time, and the texture stays delightfully creamy—though the bananas may soften further.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended, as the bananas can turn mushy and the dairy layers may separate after thawing. For best results, enjoy your Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle fresh or chilled from the fridge.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold, so skip reheating. Simply serve it chilled straight from the refrigerator—no extra effort required.
FAQs
Can I assemble Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle the night before?
Absolutely, in fact, it’s even better when prepared ahead! Allowing the trifle to chill overnight lets the wafers soften into a cake-like texture and gives all the flavors time to meld beautifully.
What’s the best way to prevent bananas from browning?
Toss banana slices lightly in lemon juice before layering in the trifle. This helps preserve their color and keeps your dessert looking fresh for serving.
Can I substitute the vanilla pudding mix with homemade pudding?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite homemade vanilla pudding recipe in place of the instant mix—the trifle will be extra rich and delicious, though it’ll require a bit more prep work.
Are there any creative mix-ins for Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle?
You can sneak in a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips, a ribbon of caramel, or even swap in a layer of peanut butter for a whimsical twist. The base recipe is wonderfully adaptable!
Can I make a lighter version of this trifle?
Definitely! Swap heavy cream for a light whipped topping and choose low-fat milk and sugar-free pudding mix if you wish—your Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle will still be dreamy and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle is a go-to for celebrations, potlucks, and spontaneous cravings alike—it’s as simple as it is spectacular. I can’t wait for you to try this creamy, layered delight and share it with your loved ones. Whip it up and watch it disappear!
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Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers in this delightful Banana Vanilla Pudding Trifle. A no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the pudding:
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
For assembly:
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
- 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
- Whipped cream and crushed cookies for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until fully combined and light.
- Assemble the trifle: In a trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom, followed by a layer of banana slices, then a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of pudding. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, top with additional whipped cream and crushed cookies if desired.
Notes
- To keep bananas from browning, lightly toss them in lemon juice before layering.
- This dessert is best made the day before for maximum flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, use light whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
