Southern Comfort the Ultimate Layered Banana Pudding

Southern Comfort My Easy Layered Banana Pudding Recipe

By Cameron BlytheSeptember 28, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Ever craved a dessert that feels like a warm hug? This recipe is it. Have you ever wondered why " layered banana pudding " is so darn popular? Let me tell you, it's the perfect combo of textures and tastes.

This Southern dessert will wow your taste buds.

A Slice of the South

This classic banana pudding comes straight from Southern kitchens. It's a staple at barbecues and family gatherings. This recipe is easy peasy and only takes about 2 hours.

It makes enough for 8-10 people. Perfect for sharing...or not!

Why You'll Love This Pudding

This no-bake dessert is all about comfort and simplicity. It’s got a good hit of calcium from the milk. It's perfect for a potluck or a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Honestly, what makes this recipe special is how easy it is to customize. You could even make a bourbon banana pudding if you feel fancy.

Let's Talk Ingredients!

This easy banana pudding recipe starts with the best vanilla wafer cookies . You can also replace this with graham crackers.

Then you need ripe bananas. Don't forget your instant pudding mix ! Make sure that you have some fresh whipped cream that you get by scratch or store-bought.

Get all this together and get ready to be amazed. If you feel fancy, you can also make a banana pudding trifle .

Ingredients & Equipment

Okay, let's talk about what you'll need for this incredible layered banana pudding . Honestly, it's pretty straightforward, nothing too fancy.

Remember, this is an easy banana pudding , perfect for those days you want a Southern dessert without slaving away in the kitchen!

Main Ingredients

Here's the breakdown. Accurate measurements are key!

Vanilla Wafer Layer:
- 300g (11 oz) vanilla wafer cookies – Go for a brand you love.
- 60g (1/4 cup) melted unsalted butter
Banana Layer:
- 4 large ripe bananas, sliced. Look for yellow with just a few brown spots. Overripe ones make it soggy.
Custard:
- 710 ml (3 cups) cold whole milk Makes it extra creamy!
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant pudding mix . Vanilla, obviously.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional for a bourbon banana pudding )
- 113g (1/2 cup) softened cream cheese Really important this is soft to avoid lumps!
Whipped Cream:
- 473 ml (2 cups) cold heavy cream
- 60g (1/4 cup) powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Seasoning Notes

Vanilla is the star here. Good quality extract makes a difference. A touch of bourbon adds warmth. Think of it like a boozy hug in your banana pudding trifle ! If you're not a bourbon fan, skip it.

No biggie. For homemade whipped cream you could add some vanilla bean seeds.

Equipment Needed

Let's keep it simple.

9x13 inch baking dish (or a pretty trifle bowl if you're feeling fancy).
Electric mixer. A hand mixer will do!
Mixing bowls.
Rubber spatula.
Measuring cups and spoons.
Whisk.

You know, the basics. If you don't have a fancy mixer, a whisk and a strong arm work just fine.

No need to buy anything new to make this amazing classic banana pudding or an amazing banana pudding recipe .

Southern Comfort: Making the Ultimate Layered Banana Pudding

Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this layered banana pudding ! Honestly, it's a taste of pure Southern comfort.

This isn't just any banana pudding recipe , it's the one. We're taking a classic banana pudding and giving it a little extra something something.

This no-bake dessert is super easy. We're talking layers of vanilla wafer cookies , creamy custard, sweet bananas, and fluffy whipped cream.

It's like sunshine in a bowl! It is the perfect easy banana pudding

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Like a Pro

First, gather all your ingredients. That's the secret, right? Mise en place is fancy for "get your stuff together". Crush those vanilla wafer cookies ! Soften the cream cheese for smooth custard.

No one likes lumpy custard! Slice those bananas right before you need them. Do you know how to prevent browning? A little lemon juice does the trick.

And remember, wash your hands, kids! It’s a Southern dessert that tastes like home.

step-by-step to Banana Pudding Bliss

Crush the vanilla wafers and mix with 60g of melted butter. Press into a 9x13 inch dish. Chill!
Slice 4 large ripe bananas . Set aside.
Whisk 710 ml cold milk, instant pudding mix , 1 tsp vanilla, 2 Tbsp Bourbon , and 113g cream cheese. Mix it well.
Whip 473 ml heavy cream with 60g powdered sugar and 0.5 tsp vanilla. Stiff peaks, people!
Layer cookies, bananas, and custard. Repeat! End with custard.
Top with whipped cream. Swirl it. Make it pretty.
Chill for 2 hours . Patience is a virtue!
Serve! Enjoy that taste of heaven. It could be a banana pudding trifle or it can be just pure deliciousness.

Pro Tips for Pudding Perfection

Honestly? Use good quality ingredients. It makes a difference. Don't over mix the custard. It gets weird. Make the homemade whipped cream .

It's worth the effort. You can make the custard a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge. I once tried to rush the chilling process and… disaster.

The vanilla wafer cookies was soggy. Avoid that! This bourbon banana pudding is guaranteed to wow. The best part? Seeing everyone's face light up.

And yes, they'll ask for the recipe.

Alright, let's get into the nitty gritty of this Southern Comfort: The Ultimate layered banana pudding . I've made this so many times, and trust me, a few little tweaks can make all the difference.

Honestly, this banana pudding recipe is pretty foolproof, but let's make it amazing .

Recipe Notes

Let's talk specifics, from serving up this easy banana pudding to storing any leftovers. It is super important to get the most out of your baking time.

Serving Suggestions: Let's Make it Look Fancy

Okay, so plating this classic banana pudding . Picture this: individual glass bowls for a sophisticated vibe. Or, pile it high in a trifle dish for a real showstopper.

Presentation is key! For sides, think simple. Maybe a tall glass of sweet tea? A slice of watermelon would go perfectly with this Southern dessert .

You know? Keep it chill.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Refrigeration is your best friend. This no-bake dessert needs to stay cold. Cover it tightly and it’ll last for about 3 days.

Sadly, freezing this banana pudding trifle is not recommended. The texture of the custard and the cookies will change. For reheating, well, you don’t! It’s a cold dessert.

Just grab a spoon and dig in straight from the fridge!

Variations: Make it Your Own

Want to mix things up? Try a bourbon banana pudding . Add a splash of bourbon to the custard for a grown-up twist.

It’s divine! For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and sugar-free instant pudding mix . Swap out the vanilla wafer cookies for gluten-free alternatives to make this gluten-free.

If you are feeling brave you can go with homemade whipped cream ,

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Each serving packs about 450 calories. Plus, 6 grams of protein to keep you going. Bananas are a good source of potassium. They helps to balance your electrolytes. Remember, everything in moderation.

Well, there you have it. My secrets for the best layered banana pudding ever. Don't be scared to experiment and make it your own. Happy baking, friends! You got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make layered banana pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it's better if you do. Layered banana pudding needs time for the flavors to meld and the vanilla wafers to soften. I recommend making it at least 2 hours, or even the day before, you plan to serve it. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated!

How do I prevent my bananas from turning brown in the layered banana pudding?

No one wants brown, sad-looking bananas in their pudding! A simple trick is to toss the sliced bananas with a little lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them. The acidity helps prevent oxidation. Just don't use too much, or you'll change the flavour!

What's the best way to store leftover layered banana pudding?

Store any leftover layered banana pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will generally keep well for 2-3 days, though the bananas may continue to brown slightly and the wafers may become softer over time. It's still perfectly safe and delicious to eat!

Can I use Cool Whip instead of making homemade whipped cream for my layered banana pudding?

While I am team fresh whipped cream, if you're short on time or ingredients, Cool Whip is a perfectly acceptable substitute! The flavour and texture may be a bit different (homemade whipped cream is lighter and has a richer flavour), but it will still be a delicious layered banana pudding.

No judgement here; we all have those days!

Is there a way to make this layered banana pudding recipe healthier?

You can definitely make some swaps to lighten it up! Try using a reduced fat pudding mix, and consider using a lighter whipped topping option. You could also reduce the amount of vanilla wafers or use whole wheat wafers instead. Though, this is a treat, so maybe just enjoy a smaller portion!

Can I add different flavors to my layered banana pudding recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is a great starting point for experimentation. Consider adding a layer of salted caramel, swapping the vanilla pudding for banana cream pudding, or incorporating some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Feel free to get creative and make it your own signature dish!