Banana Pudding Layers and Cream

As seen in: Soulful Bites from the American South

This beloved Southern treat features homemade vanilla custard, sweet banana slices, and layers of crisp Nilla wafers, all topped with plush whipped cream. The pudding is made from scratch for a rich, authentic flavor and silky texture, then layered with bananas and wafers before being crowned with freshly whipped cream. Prepared in just 35 minutes, this chilled dessert is perfect for gatherings or family favorites, offering comforting nostalgia and irresistible taste with every spoonful. Make ahead for deeper flavor and enjoy that creamy, crunchy, fruity harmony with each bite.

A woman wearing an apron and smiling.
Created By Mia
Last modified on Thu, 03 Jul 2025 10:34:17 GMT
A slice of banana pudding with white whipped cream. Save This
A slice of banana pudding with white whipped cream. | yummywithmia.com

This easy banana pudding layers creamy homemade vanilla custard with sweet sliced bananas and crisp Nilla wafers for a dessert that instantly transports me to family reunions in the South. The swirl of pillowy whipped cream on top adds a nostalgic, dreamy finish you can never get enough of.

Whenever I make this banana pudding for a birthday or potluck, the bowl always returns empty. My grandmother taught me this recipe and now it is my secret weapon for impressing a crowd.

Ingredients

  • Granulated sugar: brings a gentle sweetness and custard-like texture so choose pure white fine sugar for best results
  • Cornstarch: thickens the pudding evenly so sift it if needed to avoid lumps
  • Salt: enhances the vanilla flavor and balances the overall sweetness use fine sea salt
  • Whole milk: gives the creamiest base for pudding opt for full fat for richness
  • Egg yolks: add silky body to the custard use fresh eggs with golden yolks for a richer color
  • Unsalted butter: creates a velvety finish always choose real butter
  • Pure vanilla extract: brings signature flavor and aroma use good quality real vanilla
  • Nilla wafers: provide both crunch and nostalgic vanilla taste look for fresh and crisp ones in the package
  • Ripe bananas: sliced just before assembly ensure sweet aroma and flavor choose those with freckles for perfect sweetness
  • Heavy whipping cream: is whipped to airy peaks for a luscious top look for cream with at least thirty six percent milk fat
  • Powdered sugar: sweetens the whipped cream and keeps it light sift for a smoother texture
  • Vanilla extract: in the whipped cream boosts flavor again use pure vanilla for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Pudding:
In a medium saucepan whisk together the sugar cornstarch and salt until blended to prevent any dry spots. Whisk in the whole milk a little at a time until completely smooth.
Temper the Eggs:
In a separate small bowl lightly beat the egg yolks until they are combined and fluid. This allows gentle mixing into the hot pudding.
Thicken the Pudding:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly for six to eight minutes. The mixture will start to thicken and just come to a gentle bubble which means the cornstarch is fully activated.
Combine Yolks and Custard:
Remove about half a cup of the hot pudding and slowly whisk it into the yolks to slowly bring up their temperature. This step stops the eggs from scrambling as they blend in smoothly.
Finish Cooking:
Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Whisk over low heat for two minutes until the custard is thick and creamy. Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla until melted and smooth.
Cool the Pudding:
Pour pudding into a bowl and press plastic wrap right onto the surface. This stops a skin from forming. Let sit at room temperature or refrigerate until slightly cooled so it sets well in the layers.
Layer the Dessert:
In your chosen serving dish cover the bottom with Nilla wafers. Arrange a generous layer of banana slices on top. Spoon over one third of the pudding making sure to cover evenly.
Repeat Layers:
Continue layering wafers bananas and pudding in two more cycles to use up all ingredients. Always finish with a thick final layer of pudding on top which helps keep the bananas underneath fresh.
Whip the Cream:
In a cold mixing bowl beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it forms soft peaks. The cream should hold shape but look satiny and pillowy not stiff.
Top and Finish:
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the final pudding layer. Scatter more banana slices and crushed Nilla wafers to decorate if you wish.
Chill and Serve:
Let your assembled banana pudding rest in the fridge for at least two hours. The flavors meld and the wafers soften slightly for the perfect bite.
A banana split with whipped cream and nuts. Save This
A banana split with whipped cream and nuts. | yummywithmia.com

My favorite part is sneaking a spoonful of the vanilla pudding before layering. My mom used to let me lick the bowl when she made this for Sunday suppers and now my kids do too. When you use perfectly ripe bananas it perfumes the whole kitchen.

Storage Tips

Store your banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to twenty four hours. To help keep the bananas bright squeeze a touch of lemon juice on them before layering. If you have leftovers press plastic wrap right against the whipped cream to keep everything from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version swap in reduced fat milk and a light whipped topping. If you do not have Nilla wafers ladyfingers or shortbread cookies work well though the flavor will be a bit different. Almond milk thickened with an extra spoonful of cornstarch can work for a dairy free custard.

Serving Suggestions

Banana pudding looks beautiful when served in a trifle bowl so guests can see all the delicious layers. For individual servings use small mason jars or cups. It pairs nicely with coffee or as a sweet finish to any Southern style meal.

A Touch of Southern History

Banana pudding has been a beloved classic in the American South for generations. When bananas became widely available in the early twentieth century home cooks combined them with custard and vanilla wafers. The dessert is a staple at church picnics and family gatherings all across the region.

Pro Tips

  • Whip the cream right before serving for the fluffiest topping
  • Slice bananas last to keep them from browning before assembly
  • For the prettiest layers arrange banana slices and cookies along the outer edges of your dish
A glass bowl filled with bananas and whipped cream. Save This
A glass bowl filled with bananas and whipped cream. | yummywithmia.com

Common Questions

→ How ripe should the bananas be?

Bananas should be fully yellow for best flavor and texture in the layers—avoid using underripe or overripe fruit.

→ Can I use store-bought pudding mix?

Homemade custard delivers the best flavor, but a vanilla pudding mix can be used for a quicker option if needed.

→ How far in advance can I assemble it?

Your pudding layers can be assembled up to one day ahead. Bananas may brown slightly but taste remains wonderful.

→ What can I substitute for Nilla wafers?

Shortbread or butter cookies are lovely alternatives if Nilla wafers aren't available. Choose a mild, crisp cookie.

→ Is a trifle dish mandatory?

No, you can layer everything in any large serving dish or baking pan. Glass dishes make for a pretty presentation.

Banana Pudding Southern Dessert

Classic Southern dessert with banana, vanilla pudding, wafers, and fresh whipped cream in nostalgic layers.

Preparation Time
20 Minutes Required
Cooking Time
15 Minutes Required
Overall Time
35 Minutes Required
Created By: Mia

Recipe Type: Southern Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Recipe Origin: Southern American

Output: 8 Portions

Diet Preferences: For Vegetarians

What You Need

→ Pudding

01 2/3 cup (130 g) granulated sugar
02 1/4 cup (32 g) cornstarch
03 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) whole milk
05 4 large egg yolks
06 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
07 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

→ Assembly

08 1 box (about 11 oz/310 g) Nilla wafers
09 4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
10 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream
11 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
12 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make It

Step 01

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.

Step 02

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.

Step 03

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and just starts to bubble, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 04

Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper. Pour yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking to combine.

Step 05

Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring, for 2 more minutes until thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.

Step 06

Transfer pudding to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let cool to room temperature, or chill for faster assembly.

Step 07

In a large trifle dish or 9x13-inch dish, arrange a layer of Nilla wafers on the bottom. Top with a layer of banana slices, then spread 1/3 of the pudding over the bananas.

Step 08

Repeat layers of wafers, bananas, and pudding two more times, finishing with pudding on top.

Step 09

In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe whipped cream over the top layer of pudding.

Step 10

Garnish with additional banana slices and crushed Nilla wafers, if desired. Chill at least 2 hours before serving for best flavor and texture.

Helpful Tips

  1. For extra flavor, add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the pudding.
  2. Make it ahead: Assembled pudding can be refrigerated up to 24 hours; bananas may brown slightly but flavor remains excellent.
  3. For a lighter version, substitute with reduced-fat milk and light whipped topping.

What You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Trifle dish or 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula

Allergy Details

Review ingredients for allergens and reach out to a healthcare expert with concerns.
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Wheat (in Nilla wafers)
  • May contain soy (check Nilla wafer ingredients)

Per-Serving Nutrition Info

Please view this nutritional data as an estimate and not a replacement for professional guidance.
  • Calories: 370
  • Fat Content: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Protein Content: 5 g