Description

If you’ve ever visited Magnolia Bakery, you already know their famous Banana Pudding is legendary! This creamy, dreamy dessert is layered with silky vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and classic Nilla Wafers for the ultimate no-bake treat.

The best part? This easy recipe tastes just like the original and only takes 15 minutes to prep. After chilling, the flavors blend beautifully into a soft, fluffy, irresistible dessert that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, birthdays, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic.

Ingredients

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 ½ cups ice-cold water
1 (3.4-ounce) box vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups heavy whipping cream
4 cups sliced bananas
1 (12-ounce) box Nilla Wafer cookies

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pudding Base

In a large bowl, add sweetened condensed milk.
Beat with a hand mixer while slowly streaming in ice-cold water.
Add vanilla instant pudding mix.
Beat until fully combined and smooth.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

Beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture.
Mix until no white streaks remain.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

In a trifle dish, bowl, or pan, start with a layer of Nilla Wafers.
Add a layer of sliced bananas.
Spread a layer of the pudding mixture.
Repeat layers until dish is full.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for 4–8 hours.
Top with extra bananas or crushed wafers if desired.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

Serving Tips

Best served well chilled for maximum flavor.
Garnish with crushed wafers right before serving to keep them crisp.
Serve in individual mason jars for parties.
Add extra whipped cream for a bakery-style look.

Storage Tips

Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days.
Bananas may brown slightly after 24 hours (still safe to eat).
Do not freeze — texture will change.
For best results, assemble 8–12 hours before serving.